A numerous varieties of stones are available in the market nowadays. There are two basic criterion on which the various stones are distinguished from each other. First is the class of the stone, i.e., whether the stone is a granite, marble, sandstone, or slate-stone. Second criterion is to see the texture of the stone. Various stones of a particular class are distinguished among the same class by the different textures they possess. This texture maybe naturally present in that particular variety or it can be fabricated manually.
Heavy Textures
Split face: Rough surface textured, ed rustic
Saw-cut: Rough saw finish, saw marks visible
Flamed: Damp stone spalled by acetylene torch
Sandblasted: Pitted, roughness depends upon grit used
Heavy Textures are most utilized for rustic design needs and for slip resistance. Most will benefit from treatment with repellents.
Smooth Textures
Honed: Smooth to the touch but not reflective
Polished: Mirror finish, (abrasive process)
Honed flooring surfaces do not show wear damage as dramatically as polished surfaces do and therefore are more economically maintained than polished surfaces.
Polished surfaces are ideally suited to low abrasive areas and historically are best utilized as vertical surfaces. If polished surfaces are used as flooring, restoration type processes become a normal part of regular maintenance.
