Many Connecticut gravestones are carved from native red
sandstone. Unfortunately, this material is not particularly
durable — it is vulnerable to spalling when moisture infiltrates
the tiny cracks and then expands by freezing. In its most
fragile state, sandstone can crumble at the lightest touch.
Whole sections can slough off at a time. Graveyard visitors
shouldn't really take rubbings of any stone, especially red
sandstone. Here is what happens to red sandstone over time:
Stage One: Minimal Damage Stage Two: Largely Illegible Stage
Three: Disintegration Stage Four: Collapse