Both use Harrison Spinks' Cortec™ Quad pocket spring technology, natural upholstery and seasonal sleeping surfaces. They are also available in the same principal tension choices. The main differences are found in their additional spring layers, natural filling blends and finishing details.

Does a higher spring count make the Flores better?

Not necessarily. Mattress spring counts can be misleading when viewed on their own because the headline figure includes different types and sizes of springs positioned throughout the mattress.

The Flores combines its main Cortec™ Quad spring system with dual layers of HD 4000 micro springs and quad layers of HD 2500 micro springs. The Emerald uses Cortec™ Quad springs alongside multiple layers of HD 2000 and HD 2500 micro springs, together with a layer of Posturfil pocket springs.

This means the difference between 16,500 and 18,750 shouldn't simply be interpreted as the Flores having 2,250 additional conventional mattress springs. The two mattresses use different supplementary spring arrangements, which may influence how their comfort layers respond and feel.

Spring count is only one part of choosing a mattress. Its tension, upholstery, construction and how it feels when you lie on it are equally important.

How do the natural fillings compare?

Both mattresses make extensive use of natural fibres, although their upholstery blends aren't exactly the same.

The Emerald layers a British wool and viscose blend with a British wool, hemp and flax blend, and a cotton, hemp and flax blend. The Flores layers a British wool and viscose blend with a British wool and hemp blend, a cotton and flax blend, and adds a further British wool and mohair blend for an extra layer of softness and temperature regulation.

Both draw on natural fibres grown and processed by Harrison Spinks on their own Yorkshire farm, so the sustainability credentials are closely matched, even though the specific blend proportions – and the Flores' additional mohair layer – set them apart.

Are the two mattresses built the same way?

Construction-wise, they're very similar. Both feature three rows of hand side stitching for edge support and a 25cm border, and both are Seasonal Turn mattresses with a warming wool side for winter and a cooling cotton side for summer.

Both are also available in the same core range of tensions – Gentle, Medium and Firm.

What's the price difference?

In kingsize, the Emerald 16,500 is priced at around £2,029, while the Flores 18,750 is priced at around £2,229. For a £200 saving, the Emerald gives up the Flores' additional HD 4000 micro-spring layer and mohair filling – while matching it on tension range, stitching, seasonal turn construction and Harrison Spinks' 10-year guarantee.

For most sleepers, the practical difference between the two will be subtle. The Flores' extra spring layer and mohair blend may suit those seeking the very top of the range, while the Emerald offers very similar comfort and construction at a more accessible price point.