Homeowner guide · Updated October 2026
Marble Crystallisation vs Diamond Polishing: What's the Difference?
Crystallisation and diamond polishing both make marble shine, but they work differently. How they compare on look, durability, cost and maintenance.
Side by side
| Crystallisation | Diamond honing and polishing | |
|---|---|---|
| How it works | Chemical spray buffed in with steel wool, hardens the top surface | Diamond pads remove a thin worn layer, then polish the stone itself |
| Removes scratches and etching? | No, only light dullness | Yes |
| Look | High gloss | Matt, satin or gloss, your choice |
| Best for | Quick shine on a floor in good condition | Worn, scratched or etched floors |
Our approach
We restore worn floors by diamond honing and polishing, because it removes the damage rather than covering it. Crystallisation can be used afterwards on high-traffic areas if you want an extra-hard gloss, but it isn't a substitute for honing a damaged floor.
Watch out for
- Quotes that are much cheaper than others may be crystallisation only.
- Wax or acrylic coatings look shiny at first but wear in walkways and trap dirt.
- Ask what grits will be used and whether scratches and etching will be removed.
Related services
Marble Polishing
Diamond honing and polishing for marble floors, tops and walls. Restores shine and removes dullness.
From $1/sq ft*Marble Floor Polishing
Whole-home marble floor restoration: grinding, honing, polishing and sealing in one job.
From $1/sq ft*Marble Repair
Chips, cracks, broken edges and hollow tiles filled, rebonded or replaced, then polished to blend in.
Quoted from photosMarble Stain Repair
Oil, rust, coffee, water and yellow stains drawn out with poultices, then the surface re-polished.
Quoted from photosEtch Repair & Marble Shine
Dull spots and rings from lemon, vinegar, drinks and harsh cleaners honed out and the shine restored.
Quoted from photosWine Mark Restoration
Red wine rings and spills removed in two steps: draw out the colour, then restore the etched shine.
Quoted from photosWant your marble shining again?
Send 3 or 4 photos of your marble on WhatsApp and get a price, usually the same day.