There are a whole multitude of different finishes which are available with natural stone floors. I have listed the main options below which are found on the majority of stones
Honed
This means the tile has a flat top and square edges. This is the most modern finish
Polished
This means the tile has a polished reflective surface and square edges. This finish should be avoided in any room with water as it can be slippy when wet.
Tumbled or Aged
This means the tile has been machine antiqued. It will have a gently rounded edge and will be lightly textured on the surface. It is the least expensive aged finish
Brushed
This means the top of the tile has been brushed. This creates a textured non slip surface. A brushed tile will have straight edges. It is a good choice around a swimming pool or outside
Brushed and Sandblasted
This means the top of the tile has been brushed and then sandblasted. This creates a textured non slip surface which is smoother than the pure brushed surface. A brushed tile will have straight edges
Riven
This means that the tile has been split rather than sawn. It leads to an undulating surface where the layers of stone are visible in the surface of the tile. It is normally found on slate
Aged and Pillowed
This means the tile has a smooth surface and a gentle pillowed edge to the edge of each tile. It also has a chiselled edge to the sides of the tile
Decorative Tile
This is a handmade tile with a decorative design painted or printed into the surface
