Polished vs. Honed Stone Finishes: What’s the Difference?
When selecting a natural stone surface, the finish you choose can shape both the appearance and performance of your space. The two most popular finishes—polished and honed—offer distinct qualities in look, texture, and function. At Grand Marble, we thoughtfully curate our finishes based on what best enhances the unique character of each stone, so you can feel confident from the start.
What Are Stone Finishes?
The finish refers to how the stone’s surface is treated after cutting. This influences how it reflects light, how it feels to the touch, and how it stands up to daily use. At Grand Marble, we assess the natural qualities of each slab—its tone, veining, and intended use—to ensure it’s presented in the finish that best suits its strengths.
Polished Finish
A polished stone finish delivers a glossy, light-reflective surface that enhances colour vibrancy and veining detail. It’s a striking, luxurious choice that works beautifully in a variety of spaces.
Where it works well:
Bathroom vanities and splashbacks
Kitchen benchtops
Feature walls and formal spaces
Why it’s chosen:
Reflects light and amplifies natural beauty
Smooth, easy to clean
Adds elegance and sophistication
Things to note:
Can show smudges and fingerprints
May be slippery in wet floor areas
For certain stones in our collection, polished is the natural choice—it brings out their full character without compromising durability.
Honed Finish
A honed finish results in a matte, smooth surface with little to no sheen. It creates a calm, contemporary look that pairs well with a variety of design styles.
Where it works well:
Kitchen countertops and islands
High-traffic flooring
Relaxed, modern interiors
Why it’s chosen:
Soft, tactile surface with a natural feel
Hides everyday wear and marks
Offers better grip underfoot
Things to note:
Slightly more porous; may require sealing
Colours appear more muted than in polished stone
For other stones, a honed finish is selected to highlight their softness, texture, or understated elegance.
Closing Thoughts
At Grand Marble, we select finishes that elevate the stone’s natural beauty and suit practical needs. Whether it’s a bold polished quartzite for a statement kitchen or a softly honed surface for a modern bathroom, our expert team helps guide the choice so you can focus on the vision.
Explore our curated collection in person at our Sydney showroom or reach out for a personalised consultation. Let us help you find the perfect balance of form and function—beautifully finished, and expertly chosen.