subject: Different Marble and Granite Finishes [print this page] Different Marble and Granite Finishes Different Marble and Granite Finishes
Much of the beauty of natural stone is found in its unique design and variety. That is good in itself, but you can further customize your granite and marble tops and floors through the different finishes you can apply to them. Applying a particular finish is another way of giving unique character to the granite or marble slab of your choice. Here you can find some of the popular finishes that natural stone fabricators offer to customers.
Polished
This kind of finish gives off a mirror-like surface. If you're looking for a classy and elegant look, a polished finish is a good choice. This glossy finish is not from a coating; it is achieved through constant polishing so that the stone crystals would give off a natural shine.
Honed
Is similar to polished, but not as glossy. A honed finish is great if what you're after is a toned-down look or color from your marble or granite top.
Flamed
A flamed finish gives out a rough and fissured surface. This is great for outdoor settings and if you want an untamed look from your granite and marble slabs. This look is made through heating the stone until the crystals would pop or burst.
Sandblast
Similar to a flamed finish but not as rough, a sandblast finish also provides natural stone an unadulterated look while also showing a sense of refinement. This finish is made by blasting sand and water on the stone surface.
Tumbled
If you want the stone to have a worn-out or aged look, a tumbled finish may be what you need. This type of finish is achieved by rolling the stone through river rocks and water, simulating how the stone would have gone through the natural process of erosion.
Your selection of the finish depends mostly on your taste and the application on which a granite or marble slab would be used. Offices and receiving areas could use a polished finish to show a bit of luxury and prestige. Old homes could use a tumbled or flamed finish to match the house's age. Honed finishes are good for kitchen countertops where constant activity is going on.
Natural stone customization does not end with the stone design or variety. You can still customize marble and granite further by choosing one of the different finishes available. Through one of these finishes, you can make the natural stone in your home or building uniquely your own.
