When you buy an Amarzo product, in addition to choosing the type of item that's right for you (glass, tray, pitcher, spoon, cutlery rest, etc.), you can also decide the type of finish: polished or satin.

But what exactly does that mean? What are the differences between the two finishes? And most importantly: which one should you choose?

In this article, we'll answer all these questions to help you choose the option that best suits your style.

 

The 4 processing phases

All Amarzo products are created from repurposed glass bottles, handcrafted in Italy in four phases: cutting, grinding, sanding and polishing.

Let's take a closer look at what they involve:

 

1. Cutting

The first phase of the process is cutting the bottle, performed with extreme precision using a diamond saw. Each bottle is selected and cut based on the object to be created: a glass, a spoon, a pitcher, a tray. This is the moment when the object begins to take shape, leaving behind its original function to open up to new possibilities.

2. Grinding

After cutting, the edges are still rough and potentially sharp. This is where grinding comes in, a fundamental phase to ensure safety and quality. Using a diamond grinder, artisans carefully smooth the outer edges of the object, making them more smooth, even, and easy to handle.

3. Sanding

Sanding is a more delicate smoothing process, performed by hand with sandpaper. In this phase, the cut surface is further perfected, eliminating any small imperfections and making the edge soft to the touch. It's a step that requires patience and attention, and one that truly makes a difference in the perceived quality of the finished product.

4. Polishing

The final phase is what defines the ultimate aesthetic of the object. Polishing, performed with a paste based on pumice stone, gives the glass a brilliant surface.

 

Polished vs. Satin finish: What's the difference?

Now that we've clarified the details of our manufacturing process, we can better explain the differences between a polished and a satin finish.

For almost all of our creations, you can choose the type of finish you want, based on your needs and taste. Here are the differences:

1. Polished Finish

This involves the complete processing of all four phases. Each object, after being specially cut, is then progressively refined to make the glass surface shiny and completely transparent.

Features:

• Classic glass effect, similar to crystal.
  

• Smooth and transparent surface.
  

• Ideal for a modern, elegant, minimal style.
  

See the final result:

 

2. Satin Finish

This includes only the first two phases of the manufacturing process, namely cutting and grinding, thus excluding sanding and polishing. Consequently, the objects may have a more matte finish: this contributes to giving them an authentic and natural aesthetic, enhancing the charm of handmade craftsmanship.

Characteristics:

• Matte glass effect.

• Natural aesthetic, tending towards vintage.

• Perfect for those who love rustic and artisanal style.
  

See the final result:

 

Which one to choose?

There's no right or wrong choice: it all depends on your personal taste and the context in which you want to use the item.

Both finishes are obtained through a handcrafted manufacturing process, without the use of paints or chemical treatments, in an environmentally friendly way.

A difference in price too

The polished finish, involving two additional steps compared to the satin finish, is more time-consuming and complex. For this reason, it has a slightly higher price than the satin finish.

The choice is yours alone: almost every item is available in both polished and satin finishes, to offer you maximum customization and transparency.

See the differences between the two finishes:

 

Questions? We're here to help you

If you're still unsure which finish to choose, write to us on Instagram or via email. We'll be happy to advise you based on your style, your space, and the occasion for which you're making the purchase.

Every Amarzo object tells a story.
Whether satin or polished, it will be a story of sustainable beauty.