Use of tombstones in investigation of deterioration of stone monuments

A number of researchers have used tombstones to study the deterioration of stone. The tombstones can provide a large number of samples for statistical analyses. Measurements have included index of legibility, microrelief of resistant inclusions, and loss of thickness. Lack of information about past exposure conditions makes it difficult to derive quantitative relationships. The most useful results involve ranking of stone durability, and identification of time periods or geographic regions with high rates of stone deterioration.