Laguiole Knives with Stainless Steel Bolsters

Satin vs polished: two ways to finish the bolsters

Comparing satin vs polished comes down to how much shine you want. A satin finish knife has bolsters with a soft, low sheen that keeps reflections subtle. A mirror finish knife has bolsters polished until they reflect like chrome, which suits a glossy handle such as black buffalo horn. On these knives each finish is matched to its handle material, so there's no guesswork about what pairs with what. Look at the bolsters in the photos and you'll see the difference right away.

Oak, black buffalo horn or recycled oyster shell

Oak is a familiar, honest wood with an open grain, paired here with satin bolsters for a natural, low-key look. Black buffalo horn is deep and glossy, a striking contrast with mirror-polished bolsters. Recycled oyster shell makes a pearly handle, framed, like oak, by satin bolsters. Many other woods, horns and stones fill out this collection. Natural materials never repeat exactly, so your handle will show a grain or pattern all its own.

Silver or gold-colored bolsters?

Stainless steel bolsters give a Laguiole its classic silvery look, cool and understated, and they suit almost any handle. If you'd prefer a warmer, golden tone, similar Laguiole knives also come with brass bolsters. Within this collection you can pick one blade for daily jobs or a corkscrew model for opening wine at a backyard dinner. Handmade in France, each knife has the Laguiole en Aubrac name marked on its blade. To compare the golden version, see Laguiole Knives with Brass Bolsters.

Stainless steel bolster questions

What is a satin finish?

A satin finish is a surface brushed or polished to a soft, low sheen that sits between matte and mirror-bright. It reflects light gently rather than like a mirror, so it looks calm and hides small marks well. On these Laguiole en Aubrac knives, satin-finished bolsters are paired with handles such as oak or recycled oyster shell for a relaxed, natural look.

Is satin finish shiny?

Only a little. A satin finish has a gentle glow but no mirror reflection, so it reads as smooth and understated rather than flashy. If you want real shine, a mirror polish is the other option. On these knives, the bolsters come in both finishes, each one chosen for the handle it frames.

What is polished stainless steel?

Polished stainless steel has been buffed until its surface is smooth enough to reflect light like a mirror. That bright finish gives a crisp, dressy look and makes the metal stand out against dark materials. On these Laguiole knives, mirror-polished bolsters frame handles such as black buffalo horn, for a bold, formal contrast.

Care tips ship with your knife: hand-wash it, dry it promptly and skip the dishwasher, no matter the handle.