Cast Bronze vs Commercial Bronze
"Bronze" covers many copper alloys. According to the reference entry on bronze, typical modern bronze is about 88% copper and 12% tin. The same source notes that "commercial bronze" is 90% copper and 10% zinc, and that alloys with zinc as the main added metal are more properly regarded as brass.
"Cast bronze" describes how a plaque is made, not a single alloy. Molten metal is poured into a mold made from the plaque pattern, so the letters and art are raised from the same piece of metal. Memorial plaques are cast. Thin engraved or etched plates, often called commercial or brass plaques, are cut from sheet metal instead.
When you compare cast bronze and commercial bronze grave markers, ask each seller three questions: what alloy is used, whether the plaque is cast or cut from sheet, and what warranty applies. Legacy Bronze plaques are cast bronze, made in the USA by a verified third-party manufacturer, with coverage per our written warranty schedule.
Flat Bronze Marker vs Bronze on Granite
Flat Bronze Marker
A flat bronze marker is set level with the lawn, usually on a concrete foundation made by the cemetery. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs lists its own flat bronze grave marker at 24 by 12 inches with a 3/4 inch rise, which shows the common scale. See our flat bronze plaques.
Bronze on Granite
Bronze on granite means the plaque is fixed to a granite base, which frames it with a stone border and can hold an in-ground vase. A bevel plaque on granite is common for single and companion graves. See our bevel bronze plaques.
Which to Choose
Your cemetery's rules decide most of this. Many lawn sections require flat markers or a set base size. Ask the office for the rules in writing, then share them with us so the proof matches. For more on style choice, read flat vs bevel bronze plaques.
Questions about materials? Call +1 832-699-7995 or contact us.
