Granite and marble countertops have become the classic choice for kitchens and bathrooms. For a fresh, updated touch to stone countertops, select a polished finish.

granite
Since there are so many color options with granite countertops, only the best looking or most popular colors are available in a matte finish. A very popular granite color for the last two decades has been black. It is available in a wide range of options, from the solid looking Absolute Black granite to the dazzling gold flecked Black Galaxy variety. Other more exotic black granite options are the largely veined Eclipse that looks like zebra stripes or even Magma Extra with its swirling contrast of black and gold. Any of these stones takes on a whole new look with a polished finish. Highly polished Absolute Black, for example, has a modern look when installed in a sleek kitchen with stainless steel appliances and maple cabinets. The same Absolute Black granite with a honed finish in the same kitchen gives the space a more organic or natural feel. By simply using a stone countertop with a polished finish, the entire space will feel more casual and comfortable. Countertops make a big impact in any space, whether it’s the kitchen, bathroom or media room.

Stink
Travertine and limestone countertops are often available with a polished finish rather than a polished finish as it is a more popular selection. These stones are often the countertop of choice for bathroom vanities and utility rooms, as they naturally appear more casual than granite or marble. However, a polished marble can have the same relaxing feel as travertine when done in the right color. There are fewer color options with travertine and limestone than with granite or marble. The color range is light neutral tones including beige, tan and grey, but the pattern of the stone can vary much more. Travertine is a type of limestone found in the ground with natural pits or holes that can range from a dime to the size of a fist. When the stone is quarried and cut into slabs, these pits are filled in to make a proper countertop. These fillers vary greatly in size and shape, which determines the overall style of the stone. Large fillers have a more rustic look, especially with a honed finish.

Soapstone
Soapstone and slate are almost exclusively available in honed finishes. Another popular finish with these stones is a subtle texture called leather or flamed. These textures have the same eggshell sheen as a flat matte finish, making them suitable for casual and nature-inspired spaces. Soapstone is usually a solid or gray charcoal with little movement or pattern. Although this stone is solid, it has a lot of character with a honed finish. Slate has more movement and color variation, but has a similar feel to soapstone. These stones are softer to the touch than other natural stone countertops and have an ease that greatly complements other natural materials such as wood and metal. Polished natural stone countertops have a softer, more casual feel in today’s homes than classic polished surfaces.