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A Scroll
A scroll engraved on a tombstone with both ends rolled up can indicate that part of life has already unfolded while the future remains uncertain.
Clasped Hands
Depending on the position of the thumbs, clasped hands can represent shaking hands or holding hands. A handshake can mean a greeting to eternal life. If clasped hands have different cuffs, it could indicate a bond between the deceased and a spouse or relative.
Hourglass
The hourglass can symbolize the march of time. An hourglass on its end may mean the deceased died suddenly, while a winged hourglass communicates how quickly time flies. It may also be construed as a message to the living — time is short, so don’t waste it.
A Dove
The dove often represents a tie between the deceased and Christianity, but depending on how the dove is positioned could change its meaning. If it’s flying upward, the soul is ascending to heaven. If it’s flying down, it represents the Holy Spirit arriving at the baptism of Jesus Christ. If it’s holding an olive branch in its mouth, it refers to an ancient Greek belief that olive branches could ward off evil spirits.
Camel
The camel usually signifies the Imperial Camel Corps that occupied desert regions during World War I, but can also represent a long journey or skilled guide.
A Broken Column
The broken column represents a life that was cut short.
A Broken Chain
In the medieval ages, a chain was often used as a metaphor for what kept the soul in the body. The broken chain found on tombstones represents the soul being freed from its physical shell. If the chain is unbroken and if it features the letters FLT (for Friendship, Love, and Truth), it probably means the deceased belonged to the Independent Order of Odd Fellows.
Anchors
Unsurprisingly, anchors are used to represent someone who served in the Navy. The anchor is also a symbol of hope and the end of the physical life’s journey.
Oil Lamp
The oil lamp represents a love of learning and knowledge. It can also refer to how the spirit is immortal.
A Book
A book on a tombstone usually refers to a sacred text such as the bible. If a book is found with a dog-eared corner, it could indicate the person’s life ended prematurely and before their “book” was finished.
Corn
It used to be a custom to send corn instead of floral arrangements to a farmer’s family, so corn is usually placed on tombstones of farmers. Corn can also symbolize transition and rebirth.
Finger Pointing Upwards
This symbol can be interpreted in many ways, but the most common is that the finger is indicating the person has left the land of the living and ascended.
The Eye
Often surrounded in a burst of sunlight or a triangle, the eye typically represents the all-seeing eye of God and is often found on the tombstones of Freemasons.