Stone Selection Guide
Polished vs Leather Finish: Which Should You Choose?
The finish changes how a stone looks, feels and performs as much as the stone itself. Two of the most popular options are polished and leather (brushed) — here’s how to choose.
Polished finish
- High sheen that reflects light and makes a room feel brighter.
- Brings out the full depth of veining and colour.
- Very easy to wipe clean; can feel more slippery when wet.
Leather (brushed) finish
- Soft, low‑sheen matte surface with a tactile texture.
- Hides fingerprints, smudges and water spots well.
- Offers more grip underfoot — a good choice for floors and wet areas.
Honed — the middle ground
A honed finish is flat and matte with no sheen. It’s understated and contemporary, sitting between polished shine and leather texture.
Which finish where?
- Floors, bathrooms, pool areas: leather or honed for grip and easy maintenance.
- Feature walls, vanities, low‑traffic interiors: polished for maximum elegance and light.
Key takeaway
There’s no single ‘best’ finish — it depends on the surface and how it’s used. Tell us the application and we’ll recommend the finish that looks and performs best.
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