Stone Finishes Explained: Polished, Honed & Leathered

Stone Finishes Explained: Polished, Honed & Leathered

Generally, the finish chosen for granite or quartz is indicative of its looks, feel, or response to the environment. Below is a small guide to the three most common finishes: Polished, Honed, and Leathered.

1. THE POLISHED FINISH
POLISHED FINISH


Look: This finish is highly glossy and intensely reflective, providing a splendid chance for the stone's colors and patterns to shine.
Feel: Completely smooth.
Best For: Kitchen counters, vanity tops, wall cladding.
Pros:
Brings out colors and veining.
Resistant to stains (when sealed).
Easy to clean.
Perfect for swanky, contemporary designs.
Cons:
Showcases fingerprints and water marks readily.
Great slippery when wet; better to avoid for floors in wet areas.

2. Honed Finish
Honed Finish


Look: Matte or satin finish with a smooth, velvety texture.
The Touch: Smooth, soft, and flat, yet there is absolutely no shine.
Best For:Bathrooms, floors, and modern kitchens-another place in which high-grade terrazzo finds its use.
Pros:
Doesn't reflect light—great for subtle, modern designs.
More slip-resistant than polished.
Hides scratches and smudges better.
Cons:
Colors appear softer.
More porous—requires sealing to prevent staining.

3. Leathered Finish
Leathered Finish


Look: Textured finish with an acrylic reflection, a natural and rough finish.
Feel: Slightly rough to the touch with smooth undulations; almost leathery.
Best For:Accent walls and any rustic or industrial interior.
Pros:
The print surface hides fingerprints, water spots, or little scratches.
Handleability makes For rustic or natural interiors.
More gripping-good on wet and slippery sites.
Distinct surface good for the use of nature and elegance.
Cons:
Slightly harder to clean since dust can settle in grooves.
Often more expensive because of the extra work required in finishing.
Still needs sealing like honed surfaces.

Quick Comparison Table
FeaturePolishedHonedLeathered
ShineHigh glossMatteSoft sheen
TextureVery smoothSmoothLightly textured
Color DepthVibrantSubtleDeep & rich
MaintenanceEasyNeeds sealingNeeds sealing
Slip ResistanceLowMediumHigh
Choosing A Finish

Go for a Polished finish when you want a show of elegance and brilliance, perfect for luxury interiors.
Honed finish should be chosen for a soft and understated look that allows for the easy maintenance of busy areas.
Leathered finish will suit you if you admire texture, depth, and a counterpart of nature.

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