Finish and surface treatment of stone
From matte and rough to smooth and reflective
The final finish is what really shows the stone's character — and it determines how the surface looks, feels and behaves in use. From the polished, mirror-like polish to the rough, slip-resistant flame treatment, each method has its own expression and its own application.
§Grinding and polishing
Grinding occurs in multiple steps with gradually finer grain sizes until the surface is even. Continue to the highest fineness and you achieve a polished, mirror-like surface where the stone's veins and crystal structure emerge clearly. Polished finish is often used on tabletops and indoor floors where the glossy appearance and easy cleaning are an advantage — but a polished surface can be slippery when wet.
§Sandblasting
With sandblasting a granular material is shot under pressure against the stone surface so it becomes uniformly matte and slightly rough. The method preserves the stone's natural appearance but makes the surface less reflective and slightly more slip-resistant than a polished surface. Sandblasted finish is used among other things in bathrooms and other indoor areas where a hygienic non-reflective surface is desired.
§Jet burning and flame treatment
Jet burning exposes the stone surface to intense heat, so the mineral grains – especially quartz crystals – crack and leave a rough, very slip-resistant surface that maintains its grip even wet and in frost. The treatment also highlights the stone's crystal structure in a different way than grinding. Because the treatment is based on intense heat, it is best suited for hard, heat-resistant stone types like granite, while water-absorbing stones like sandstone are less suitable for water-based methods.
| Finish | Expression | Typical use |
|---|---|---|
| Polished | Blank, mirror-like, emphasizes veins | Table tops, indoor floors |
| Sandblasted | Matte slightly rough uniform | Bathroom and Other Humid Spaces |
| Jet burnt/flamed | Rough, highly slip-resistant | Outdoor stairs, paving |
| Stokhugget/riffelhugget | Structured, hand-hewn expression | Facades, classical stone carving work |
§Choose finish based on the task
The choice of finish is rarely just a matter of taste. Where will the stone be used — outdoors or indoors, dry or wet? Should the surface be non-slip, or is it the appearance that matters most? The experienced stonemason and stone technician advises the customer based on both aesthetics and function, so the result both looks good and works in practice.