Sand is the most abundant ingredient in the mix. The powdered cement and lime are the glue that holds the sand together and allows the mortar to bond to each brick (or concrete block, stone or other ...

In the image below, the Glossy setting is not ideal as we can see a clear reflection of the adjacent pool and concrete wall. The stone is not reflective however, it did darken up the mortar joints.

Sand is the most abundant ingredient in the mix. The powdered cement and lime are the glue that holds the sand together and allows the mortar to bond to each brick (or concrete block, stone or ...