Jewish Headstones and Hebrew Memorials

jewish headstones and hebrew memorials

Jewish Headstones and Hebrew Memorials in the San Francisco Bay Area

Honoring a Life, Preserving a Name, Connecting Generations

Memorials That Reflect Your Family’s Traditions

Every family brings its own history, beliefs and wishes to the memorial process. Some prefer a simple stone with a traditional Hebrew inscription. Others choose Hebrew and English lettering, a personal tribute or a design that reflects their loved one’s character.

We begin by listening. Together, we consider the memorial’s shape, granite color, wording and artwork to create a thoughtful design that feels right for your family.

Whether your preferences are religious, cultural or personal, our team will guide you through the available options with care.

Hebrew Lettering and Bilingual Inscriptions

A loved one’s name written in Hebrew can carry deep meaning across generations. A bilingual memorial can also make that remembrance accessible to relatives and visitors who read English.

Depending on your wishes and the cemetery’s requirements, an inscription may include:

• Hebrew and English names
• A Hebrew name with parentage, following your family’s custom
• Hebrew and Gregorian dates
• Traditional Hebrew memorial abbreviations
• A short prayer, verse or personal tribute
• Words describing cherished family relationships

Our designers arrange Hebrew and English inscriptions with attention to reading direction, spacing and balance.

Families supply and approve the exact wording. We recommend having Hebrew names, dates and religious inscriptions reviewed by your rabbi or a trusted fluent Hebrew reader before final approval. You will receive a design proof to review before engraving begins.

Meaningful Symbols and Personal Details

For some families, the Star of David is a meaningful expression of Jewish identity. Others prefer a memorial centered on the inscription, with a simple border or no additional ornamentation.

We can discuss religious symbols, meaningful artwork and personal details that complement your chosen wording. Certain symbols have specific religious or family significance, so their use should reflect your family’s wishes and any guidance from your rabbi.

Photographs and other decorative elements can also be considered where appropriate and permitted by the cemetery.

Explore Jewish and Hebrew Memorial Designs

Browse examples of Jewish headstones and Hebrew memorials created by Mattos Monuments for inspiration. Notice the different granite colors, monument shapes, lettering arrangements and personal details. You may find one element you love or several ideas you would like to bring together.

Each example is a starting point. Your memorial will be designed around your loved one, your family’s wishes and the cemetery’s requirements.

Jewish Upright monuments

Upright headstones offer a prominent space for Hebrew and English lettering, meaningful symbols and personal tributes. Individual and companion designs are available where permitted.

Individuals

Companions

Flat Jewish Grave Markers

A flat granite marker provides a simple, dignified memorial with a carefully arranged inscription. We help families balance names, dates and wording within the available space.

Individuals

Companions & Multi-Names

Slant and Pillow Jewish Memorials

These styles provide an angled inscription surface and may offer an alternative to a flat marker or upright monument, depending on cemetery requirements.

Granite Hebrew Ledger Memorials

Where permitted, a ledger covers the length of the grave site and provides additional room for bilingual inscriptions, tributes and borders.

Individuals

Companions

Jewish Bench Memorials

A bench memorial can honor loved ones with a elegant design. We can discuss inscription arrangements and space for future lettering.

Cemetery Requirements and Unveiling Planning

Cemetery requirements can differ by location and individual section. Size, monument style, granite finish, foundations, artwork and installation procedures may all affect the final design. Share your cemetery name and burial location with us early so we can help confirm the applicable requirements.

If your family is planning an unveiling, please let us know the intended date when you first contact us. We can discuss material availability, design approval, production and cemetery coordination before a completion schedule is confirmed.

Unveiling customs and timing vary. Your rabbi and cemetery can help guide the ceremony arrangements while we assist with the memorial.

Why Families Choose Mattos Monuments for Jewish Headstones and Hebrew Memorials

Choosing a memorial involves meaningful decisions at a difficult time. Our family-owned company has served Bay Area families since 1897, combining personal guidance with lasting craftsmanship. We offer:

A local showroom in Hayward
Custom Hebrew and English memorial layouts
Granite colors and memorial styles to compare
Detailed design proofs for family approval
Assistance with cemetery requirements and approvals
Personal guidance from the first conversation through the memorial process

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a Jewish headstone include both Hebrew and English?

Yes. We can design a memorial with Hebrew and English names, dates and inscriptions, subject to the cemetery’s requirements. Your family approves the exact wording and layout before engraving.

What should we put on a Jewish headstone?

Many families include their loved one’s name, dates and a brief tribute. Hebrew names, parentage, traditional abbreviations and religious wording may also be included. Your rabbi can help you select wording that follows your family’s traditions.

Can you include Hebrew dates?

Yes. We can incorporate Hebrew dates alongside Gregorian dates. Please provide and verify the exact dates you want engraved before approving the design.

Does a Jewish memorial have to include a Star of David?

Design choices vary among families and communities. We can create a memorial with a Star of David or a simpler design focused on the lettering, subject to cemetery requirements.

When should we order a memorial for an unveiling?

Contact us as early as possible and share your intended unveiling date. Timing depends on the granite, memorial style, inscription approval, cemetery requirements and installation arrangements. We will discuss the expected schedule for your specific memorial.

How much does a Jewish headstone cost?

Pricing depends on the memorial’s size, granite, shape, lettering and artwork. Cemetery foundation and installation charges may also apply. We can prepare a personalized quote once we know your cemetery and design preferences.

Create a Lasting Tribute to Your Loved One

You do not need to have every detail decided before reaching out. Bring your cemetery information, preferred wording and any photographs or design ideas you would like to share.

We will help you create a memorial that honors your loved one’s name, life and place in your family’s story.

MATTOS MONUMENTS

26359 Mission Blvd
Hayward, CA 94544
510-581-5833