Polished Stone
Polished stone has a shiny, mirror-like surface. Marble, granite, limestone, and travertine tiles and slabs are polished on large polishing machines, which progressively grind the stone from the rough saw-cut surface (visible on the backside of tiles or slabs) to a specular (mirror-like) finish. This is accomplished by finer and finer circular polishing heads moving over the surface of the slabs or tiles as they move along a polishing line until the desired finish is achieved. This is a process analogous to finishing wood, in which finer and finer sandpaper is used to smooth the surface.
Key Advantages : Stain resistance, luxurious look, low maintenance
Honed Stone
Honed stone has a matte or satin finish for a softer, more subdued look. This is achieved at the factory by stopping just short of the last stage of polishing. Some fabricators have special equipment and can hone marble in their shops by removing the factory polish.
Key Advantages : Organic look and texture, reduced glare, depth of character