9 Natural Stone Finishes at a Glance
Gloss, texture and edges help distinguish these nine finishes. This is a quick introduction, not an exhaustive list.
AI-generated conceptual illustration of nine finishes on different example stones. Not photographs, Mahed stock, projects or tested samples; actual appearance varies by stone and process. Each card below pairs a finish name with an illustration and a short description.
1. Polished
A smooth face with clear reflections; colour and veining stand out. [1]
2. Honed
A smooth face with little shine, rather than mirror-like reflections. [1]
3. Brushed
Brushing creates a textured face with a softened feel. The result depends on the stone and preceding treatment. [5]
4. Bush-hammered
Repeated tool impacts leave a field of small pits and a rough texture. [2]
5. Flamed

Heat treatment produces a rough surface. Its appearance and feasibility depend on the particular stone. [2]
6. Sandblasted

Blasting abrasive particles creates a fine, grainy surface texture. [5]
7. Tumbled
Tumbling wears the face and edges, giving pieces rounded, aged-looking contours. [3]
8. Split-face
Splitting exposes an uneven face with pronounced relief. It differs from a flat sawn surface. [4]
9. Sawn
The face retains marks from cutting, often visible as lines. [1]
A finish name or photograph does not establish slip resistance or suitability. Confirm the exact stone, finish and project requirements using a physical sample.
For a closer comparison: honed vs polished marble.
For a marble sample discussion, start with Shayan Beige Marble. Its catalogue lists polished, honed and brushed finishes—not all nine shown here. Send the requested finish, dimensions, quantity and destination through the product page’s inquiry option.
