There are many different types of stone available today. When stone is ordered, it is fabricated with a particular type of surface.   Here is a description of the types of surfaces available at Unisource Stone. Honed Provides a flat to low sheen gloss. Different levels of gloss can be selected. This surface is very smooth, but often very porous. This texture is common in high traffic buildings. Honed floors should always be protected with Stoneguard Penetrating Sealer because it has wide-open pores. Honed stone colors are not as vibrant as a polished stone. Polished A glossy surface that wears away with time due to heavy foot traffic and using improper maintenance procedures. This surface is very smooth and not very porous. The reflectivity of polished crystals brings out the brilliant colors and grains of natural stone. The shine comes from the natural reflection of the stone's crystals. The polish is provided by polishing bricks and polishing powders that are used during fabrication. The shine is not from a coating.  Tumbled A slightly rough texture that is achieved by tumbling small pieces of marble, limestone, and sometimes granite to achieve an archaic/worn appearance. It often requires an application of Stone Color Enhancer to bring out the colors.  Sawn A process performed by using a gang saw.