When selecting a natural stone surface, whether it be for a kitchen countertop, bathroom vanity, or fireplace surround, one of the most important decisions is the finish. At Stone Fabricators, St. Louis’s trusted source for luxury stone surfaces, we offer a variety of stone finishes. Among the most popular are polished, honed, and leathered finishes.
Understanding these finishes can help you choose the perfect stone surface for your space. Here’s a breakdown of what each finish offers and how it can complement your design:
Polished Finish: Classic Shine and Elegance
A polished stone is characterized by its glossy and reflective finish. The finish is achieved by grinding the stone surface with fine abrasives. This high-gloss finish brings out the rich color and intricate veining of natural stones.
Benefits of A Polished Finish:
- Reflects light, making the stone appear larger and brighter
- Enhances the natural color and pattern of the stone
- Easy to clean and maintain with proper sealing
Best Uses: Kitchen countertops, bathroom vanities, fireplace surrounds, and anywhere you want a touch of luxury and elegance.
If you love a sophisticated, high-end look, a polished stone may be your ideal choice.
Honed Finish: Smooth, Subtle, and Modern
A honed finish provides a matte or satin surface with little to no shine. The stone is ground to a smooth, flat surface without the glossy polish, giving it a more natural, understated look.
Benefits of Honed Stone:
- Great for high-traffic areas
- Provides a softer, more relaxed aesthetic
- Reduced glare, ideal for open spaces with lots of natural light
Best Uses: Kitchen islands, bathroom vanities, shower walls, and fireplace surrounds where a more modern or rustic feel is desired.
Many St. Louis homeowners looking for a sleek and contemporary design turn to honed finishes to complement their overall aesthetic.
Leathered Finish: Textured and Unique
The leathered finish is created by brushing the stone’s surface with diamond-tipped brushes, resulting in a soft, textured surface. This finish maintains more of the natural characteristics of the stone, offering a rugged yet refined appearance.
Benefits of Leathered Stone:
- Hides fingerprints and water spots better than polished surfaces
- Adds a tactile element to your design
- Offers a unique, one-of-a-kind look that stands out
Best Uses: Outdoor kitchens, bar tops, statement islands, and accent walls.
If you’re looking to make a statement in your St. Louis home, a leathered finish can bring depth and personality to your natural stone surface.
Choosing the Right Finish
At Stone Fabricators, we guide each client through the stone selection and finishing process. Whether you’re building a new home in Ladue, renovating a kitchen in Clayton, or designing a commercial space in Chesterfield, our expert team will help you select the ideal stone and finish to suit your style, function, and space.
Visit Our St. Louis Showroom Today
Ready to explore the look and feel of polished, honed, or leathered finishes in person? Visit our showroom located in St. Louis, MO, and experience the unmatched beauty of natural stone firsthand.
