The Difference Between the Types of Beach Pebbles: Mexican vs. Polished

A quick primer on the difference between Mexican beach pebble and polished beach pebble.
Mexican Beach Pebble

Updated: November 5, 2024

TYPES OF BEACH PEBBLES COMMONLY USED IN SOUTH FLORIDA HOMES 

Many of our clients in the Miami, FL area have asked us over the years the following question: Will polished beach pebbles lose their shine over time? Our answer: It depends! There are currently two grades of black polished beach pebble that we typically provide here at Epic Stoneworks in Miami, and that we see our competitors sell.  The most economical polished beach pebble when installed in direct sunlight will start to lose its’ sheen within a year. However, you can always install them in shaded areas or in an interior application away from the Florida sun, and they will hold their shine longer.

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Polished Beach Pebbles in Miami

Another option is to purchase high polished beach pebbles. These beach pebbles have been in the polishing tumbler for a longer time than the regular polished pebble. This longer process can take up to four weeks and involves the use of several grades of tumbling grit.

The Final Product of the Stone Polishing Process

The finished product is a shiny beach pebble that can withstand longer exposure to the elements. These high polished pebbles will last longer than their “regular polished stones” counterpart, but some fading will eventually occur. The degree and speed of this will depend on where they are installed.

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polished black beach pebbles

Regular Polished Black Beach Pebbles

Mexican Beach Pebble

This brings us to our Mexican Beach Pebble. This stone has been tumbled by mother nature into a smooth and consistent oval shape. No tumbling grits or chemicals are added in the process; just thousands of years with waves crashing down on them and they are ready to go. No maintenance, no fading, but no shine either.

Choosing Beach Pebbles for Your South Florida Home

Whichever beach pebble you choose, keep in mind that there will be trade offs. The polished rock pebble stone will require maintenance to stay shiny, and the non-polished beach pebbles will not. However, when installed in your Miami area home they will all provide a clean and elegant pose in your gardens. Questions? Call 305-493-8562 or visit our contact page to get in touch!

See also: Which is best for a Miami landscape, flagstone or pavers?

mexican beach pebbles used in a lush garden

Non-polished Mexican Beach Pebble in the garden.