In modern techniques, lacquer Polish is used as clear or pigmented coatings that dry by solvent evaporation to produce a hard, durable finish. The finish can be of any sheen level from ultra-matte to high gloss, and it can be further polished as required. Lacquer finishes are usually harder and more brittle than oil-based or latex paints, and are typically used on hard and smooth surfaces. It is used for a number of hard and potentially shiny finishes applied to materials such as wood or metal.