Rope Top Blocks - Fixing and Painting

[skint4sure]

Hi all

I want to get 4 blocks and 2 corners and paint them black with gold tops.
I want to put them in the gorund in front of a headstone so they are visible above the earth and then fill in the space with chippings or similar.

I need to know:

What bond/solvent to use to fix the end corners to each block tight and remember it's outdoors so exposed to all elements weatherwise.

What kind of paint to use. I can't locate gold in masonry paint but would some other kind be better and longer lasting.

Should I be digging a small trench and filling it with concrete first to form some solid base so the blocks won't sink into the earth.


Thanks for all your help.