A selection of Stone and Slate Memorials Stone There are many different varieties of stone but the most widely known is York Sandstone. Not as hard as Granite, this stone will eventually begin to weather slightly with age. Its mellow colour is very gentle to the eye and it is ideal for detailed carving work. Suitable for most churchyards. Slate Slate is quarried in Wales and Cumbria. Its fine grain allows our craftsmen to demonstrate their skills to the full. Slate is apt for extremely detailed carving and lettering. Suitable for most churchyards.