Natural stone finishes vary widely, each offering unique aesthetic and functional qualities.
Here are some of the most popular natural stone finishes.
- Polished Finish: This finish involves grinding the stone to a high gloss, enhancing its color and pattern. It is highly reflective and ideal for interior applications like countertops and floors.
- Honed Finish: Achieved by grinding the stone to a smooth, matte finish, it has little to no shine. This finish is popular for high-traffic areas as it offers a slip-resistant surface.
- Flamed Finish: Created by exposing the stone to high temperatures, causing the surface to burst and become rough. It's commonly used for exterior paving and areas requiring a non-slip surface.
- Bush-Hammered Finish: Produced by hammering the stone with a specialized tool to create a uniformly textured surface. This finish is often used for decorative purposes and adds an antique appearance.
- Tumbled Finish: Stones are placed in a drum with abrasives and tumbled to create a weathered, rustic look with rounded edges. This finish is favored for patios, pathways, and wall claddings.
- Sandblasted Finish: Involves blasting the stone surface with sand, resulting in a finely textured, non-reflective surface. This is often used for decorative tiles and to add slip resistance.
- Split Face Finish: Achieved by splitting the stone to expose its natural grain and texture, creating a rough, uneven surface. It’s frequently used for feature walls and external cladding.
- Leathered Finish: A relatively new finish where the stone is brushed with diamond-tipped brushes to create a soft, textured surface with a subtle sheen. This finish is often used for countertops and adds a tactile dimension.
What's your favourite natural stone finish?
