The gloss or matte of a tile is literally baked in. It is a feature of the enamel. You could use tile paint to change the appearance, but it’s brand new tile. It would be a crime against the tile.

You have an opportunity! How about removing half the tile and replacing it with a gloss finish in the same color. You can play with the layout to give you a beautiful visual texture. I believe this image is from Heath Ceramics, but I've had it for so long, I’m no longer certain.

Do you want to share some pictures? What's your countertop like? I have a matte white backsplash and used light gray grout to bring out the shape of the herringbone tile.

@lucky998877 here's a pic of what it was supposed to look like, current state and tile/countertops. Am I just freaking out because there is no grout? Marble countertops.

Clearer picture

I see quite a bit of color variation in your tile, so on that front, at least, you may be freaking out over nothing (nothing being thinking they are totally uniform when they aren't). Whether they are too matte for you, I can't say.

I do think that grout will pull it together and make it look good for what it is. I don't know if you've already decided on a grout color, but if you haven't you might want to use some leftover tile and make a sample board for yourself. Higher contrast grout could add a different type of interest if you think that it needs it.

I see variation on the tile color also...maybe it's easier to see from a distance. Sample the grout color before you commit! I would stay with this tile.

I don't know if there is grout that is shimmery, but if there is, that might be enough shine for you. Otherwise, I think it looks fine. When you add under cabinet lights, it will be even better.

I think it's subtle and beautiful. you really can't judge it until grout goes in.

also, it's possible that it has a slight dusty haze since the job is not finished. clean a section of it and see if that helps.

also, I just realized: is it the kind of marble tile that needs a sealant after it goes in? I'm no tile expert, but if it turns out it needs to be sealed, it will look a little dull before that goes on. wipe the tile with a damp cloth -- it will be a good preview of the final result.

a quick google search tells me that you need to seal marble backsplash tile before it's grouted. but ask a tile expert!

The sheen of a tile has to do with the glaze that is fired onto the surface, and becomes essentially a glass coating fused with the clay base. It's very resistant to any type of coating being applied to it, and trying to paint it would result in a poor outcome. If you are having buyers remorse over your choice, the time to stop and change that is now, before it is grouted. Matte tiles are a great subtle look, and help to provide a contrast with the usual shiny surfaces of a kitchen. But they are not for everyone. Decide if they are for you or not. Then either move forward with grouting them, or tearing them out. Good luck!

Makoto is really matte. I think it looks great. I’d grout and live with it for a few weeks before ripping it out.. it might grow on you.

@User I'm in Seattle too! The counter is a glossy marble but the tile is porcelain. The reason I chose matte tile is because I didn't want to be overwhelmed with shine. I have decided to stick with my guns and see this through. The pics from the manufacturer are beautiful and I really hope it all comes together once everything is completed.

Yay Seattle! You ready for Seafair? (I live right next to that park, so it's gonna be loud LOL.)

I can't tell you how many projects I panicked before it was done, and then was much happier once it was finished and all of the decor was in place.

I'll post pics when we are done. Fingers crossed that it all comes together!

I think it's going to look terrific - love how soft and organic the white is - lovely.

it's beautiful!