POLISHED, FLAMED, OR HONED GRANITE? UNDERSTANDING THE DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THESE FINISHES

Types of Granite Finishes – Applications & Pros and Cons

Granite is a premium natural stone known for its exceptional durability and versatility. It comes in various surface finishes such as polished, honed, or flamed—each offering distinct characteristics to suit different needs and interior or exterior design styles.

1. Polished Granite – Elegant & Easy to Clean

Polished granite has a high-gloss finish that reflects light like a mirror, highlighting the natural crystalline minerals within the stone. This finish is a popular choice for kitchen countertops due to its luxurious and refined appearance. In addition to its aesthetics, polished granite is easy to clean and highly resistant to stains—making it ideal for kitchen islands and prep areas.

Beyond the kitchen, polished granite is also favored in living rooms, dining areas, and hallways where sophistication is desired. Popular color choices include gold, black, white, and gray. For a more distinctive look, opt for darker tones with subtle variation and pair them with white cabinetry, subway tile backsplashes, or metallic accents to create a classic yet contemporary aesthetic.

Advantages:
✔ High-end appearance
✔ Easy to clean and stain-resistant
Considerations:
✘ Susceptible to scratches from heavy impact
✘ Slippery surface—use caution with children or elderly individuals

2. Honed Granite – Modern & Safe

Honed granite has a smooth but matte surface, offering a softer and more modern feel. While it lacks the shine of polished granite, honed finishes maintain an understated elegance, ideal for those who prefer a minimalist and stylish look.

This type of granite is commonly used for flooring, hallways, kitchen countertops, or backsplashes when a low-sheen surface is desired. It also reduces glare and reflected light, helping to create a more relaxed atmosphere. A great example is Absolute Black granite in a honed finish—it adds a modern edge and works well with a variety of interior styles.

Advantages:
✔ Excellent slip resistance
✔ Less prone to scratching than polished finishes
✔ Suitable for modern and minimalist designs
Considerations:
✘ Less reflective, doesn’t brighten up spaces as much as polished granite

3. Flamed Granite – Rustic & Durable for Outdoor Use

Flamed granite is treated at high temperatures to create a rough, textured surface. The heat causes the surface minerals to burst, resulting in a natural, slip-resistant finish with muted colors like browns and charcoal. This rugged look makes flamed granite ideal for outdoor settings.

It’s perfect for areas such as patios, walkways, steps, garages, or outdoor kitchens. Thanks to its high traction and moss-resistant qualities, it ensures safety even in wet conditions and holds up well against weather exposure.

Advantages:
✔ Superior slip resistance
✔ Natural, rustic aesthetic
✔ Resistant to moss and mildew – great for outdoor environments
Considerations:
✘ Not suitable for high-gloss or luxurious interior spaces

Granite Maintenance – Simple Yet Effective

To preserve the long-term beauty and durability of your granite surfaces, clean them regularly using a pH-balanced stone cleaner as recommended by the manufacturer. Avoid harsh chemicals that could degrade the stone’s protective sealant.