Polishing creates a smooth glossy finish that emphasizes color and veining but may show etching, fingerprints, and scratches more clearly. Honing creates a flat matte surface. It can make etching less reflective but may show oils and dark spots differently. Leathering textures the stone while retaining natural surface movement. The texture can conceal fingerprints but may require more detailed cleaning. Finish availability and maintenance vary by stone type.
Key considerations
- cleanability
- scratch visibility
- appearance retention
- glossy finish
- matte finish
- textured finish