A sensitive topic with growing relevance
We're increasingly receiving feedback from customers who have experienced a very stressful experience: Grave decorations have been stolen – usually overnight and often without a trace. Whether vases, bowls, or lamps – what was intended as a loving expression of remembrance suddenly disappears from the grave.
It's also been reported in the media that thefts in cemeteries are on the rise. Valuable materials such as granite, copper, stainless steel, and bronze are particularly affected. The economic damage is usually manageable – but the emotional loss weighs heavily. Many people perceive such an incident as a profound intrusion into their grieving process and into the dignity of the deceased.
What we hear from our customers
In conversations with us, many bereaved families describe a mixture of disbelief and uncertainty: "We just wanted to create a beautiful, quiet place—why would someone steal something like that?"
What's often particularly disturbing is that these are heavy, high-quality objects that have been deliberately stolen, and evidently with great effort. In response, many relatives want to permanently fix new grave bowls or vases to prevent similar incidents.
Therefore, we recommend that you do not simply leave grave decorations standing loosely at the time of purchase. Attach them to a base or directly to the gravestone with suitable adhesive. This not only increases stability but also makes it significantly more difficult to remove them inconspicuously.
Our recommendation: Glue instead of drilling
The simplest and most effective way to secure vases or bowls is to use a high-quality, weatherproof natural stone adhesive. Here's a step-by-step guide:
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Cleaning surfaces
Thoroughly remove dust, dirt, and grease – e.g., with alcohol (spirit, isopropanol). Moisture must also be avoided. It's best to work in dry, but not too hot, weather. -
Select adhesive
Use silicone-free 2K natural stone adhesives or special assembly adhesives that are suitable for outdoor use, frost and granite. -
Application and alignment
Apply the adhesive in small dots or lines to the bottom of the vase or bowl and position it on the cleaned surface. Ensure correct alignment. -
Fix & harden
If necessary, secure the object with masking tape. Depending on the product, allow the bond to cure undisturbed for 12–24 hours.
A clear advantage: The bonding is invisible and, depending on the adhesive, can be removed if replacement becomes necessary later. At the same time, the grave design remains dignified – without visible screws or brackets.
Individualization as an additional protective factor
Experience has shown that the individualization of grave decorations also has a positive effect on theft protection:
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Engravings (e.g. initials or dates)
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Ornaments, symbols or sayings
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QR codes with memorial pages
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Photos on enamel plates
These personalizations not only enhance the emotional depth of the grave decoration, but also make it more difficult for third parties to resell or reuse it. A personalized piece is clearly recognizable and difficult to use anonymously.
Our conclusion
Cemeteries are quiet, public spaces—but unfortunately, they are not protected from unauthorized access. Many municipalities try to counteract this with lighting, controls, or camera surveillance—but absolute security is not possible.
We therefore recommend taking your own initiative, especially in the following cases:
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high-quality vases and bowls made of granite
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individual custom-made products
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Commemorative objects with special sentimental value
The combination of secure fastening and personalized design offers the best possible protection – dignified and unobtrusive.
Our support for you
We are happy to help you with:
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selecting suitable adhesives for your vase or bowl
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the engraving or individualization of a new piece of jewelry
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the design of a suitable base or substrate
Just contact us. We'll support you not only with the purchase, but also with the protection and preservation of your treasured memories. Because your keepsake deserves a safe place.
