Using the images above we have tried to give a representation of the difference between a honed finish and a polished finish. The stone is identical, it's just the finish that differs.

The stone on the left hand side has been honed, this means it is ground flat by a mechanical process and left with a matt/satin finish - if it were paint it would be described as eggshell.

The stone on the right has been honed and then polished, it is machined for a longer period of time using finer abrasives until the surface is highly shiney and reflective. - if it were a paint it would be described as high gloss.

Any of the stones shown on this site are available honed or polished, but some of the stones take a polish better than others. Please feel to ask us for advice when you are deciding which stone and finish you would like.