Quartz countertops are admired for their durability, low maintenance, and aesthetic flexibility—but did you know the finish you choose can dramatically affect both the look and feel of your kitchen or bathroom?
At Crowley’s Granite & Quartz, we help homeowners across Portland choose between honed and polished finishes based on lifestyle, lighting, and design goals. If you’re not sure which one is right for your space, this guide breaks down the key differences between honed and polished quartz—and how to pick the best one for your home.
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What Is a Polished Quartz Finish?
Polished quartz has a glossy, reflective surface that enhances the stone’s color and pattern. This is the most common finish used in kitchens and bathrooms.
Key Features:
- High-gloss, mirror-like shine
- Amplifies colors and veining
- Repels water and resists stains
- Smooth, glassy texture
Ideal For:
- Brightening darker kitchens
- Contemporary or glam design styles
- Homeowners who want a sleek, clean look
Polished quartz is also the easiest finish to clean and maintain—making it a great choice for busy families or entertainers.
What Is a Honed Quartz Finish?
Honed quartz (also called matte or satin finish) has a smooth, velvety texture with little to no shine. It gives the surface a soft, understated elegance.
Key Features:
- Matte, low-reflective finish
- More tactile or textured feel
- Subdued colors and veining
- Slightly more prone to smudges or fingerprints
Ideal For:
- Soft, organic, or rustic design styles
- Minimizing glare under strong lighting
- Adding subtle luxury without the shine
Honed quartz offers a more natural, earthy look—perfect for modern farmhouse, coastal, or minimalist interiors.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Polished Quartz | Honed Quartz |
|---|---|---|
| Appearance | Shiny, glossy, reflective | Matte, soft, natural-looking |
| Color Vibrancy | Bright and bold | Subtle, muted tones |
| Maintenance | Easy to clean, smudge-resistant | May show fingerprints/oil marks |
| Feel | Slick and smooth | Velvety and textured |
| Best Use Cases | Modern kitchens, bold designs | Rustic, soft, or muted spaces |
Polished Quartz
Appearance: Shiny, glossy, reflective
Color Vibrancy: Bright and bold
Maintenance: Easy to clean, smudge-resistant
Feel: Slick and smooth
Best Use Cases: Modern kitchens, bold designs
Honed Quartz
Appearance: Matte, soft, natural-looking
Color Vibrancy: Subtle, muted tones
Maintenance: May show fingerprints/oil marks
Feel: Velvety and textured
Best Use Cases: Rustic, soft, or muted spaces
Which Finish Is Easier to Maintain?
Polished quartz is the lower-maintenance option. It resists fingerprints, watermarks, and stains better than honed finishes because of its sealed, non-porous surface.
Honed quartz requires slightly more upkeep. While it’s still non-porous and durable, its matte texture can highlight oils, fingerprints, and smudges—especially in darker colors.
However, both finishes are:
- Resistant to staining when cleaned properly
- Durable and scratch-resistant
- Easy to maintain with daily cleaning (warm water + dish soap)
How to Choose: Honed vs. Polished Quartz
What’s your style?
- Polished: Modern, traditional, or glamorous
- Honed: Organic, rustic, soft-modern, Scandinavian
How’s your kitchen lighting?
- Polished reflects more light—great for darker spaces
- Honed reduces glare—ideal in sun-filled rooms
What’s your tolerance for fingerprints or smudges?
- If you want wipe-and-go cleaning, polished is easier
- If you love the soft, matte look, honed is worth the tradeoff
Can You Use Both Finishes in the Same Home?
Absolutely! Many of our Portland clients mix and match finishes:
- Polished quartz on kitchen countertops
- Honed quartz on islands or bathroom vanities
This creates a custom, layered look without sacrificing function.
Final Thoughts: Your Quartz, Your Finish
Whether you choose the reflective shine of polished quartz or the subtle sophistication of honed, you’re investing in a countertop that combines durability with timeless design.
Not sure which is right for you? We’ll help you weigh the pros and cons based on how you live, cook, and clean.
Crowley
Written by Crowley’s Granite & Quartz
With 20+ years of countertop expertise in Portland, Crowley’s helps homeowners choose quartz surfaces that perfectly match their space, lifestyle, and design goals. From glossy modern kitchens to matte-finish bathroom retreats, we’ve done it all—and we’d love to help you next