When you think business cards you propably have three options in mind.
1- Gloss Business Cards.
2- Matte Business Cards.
3- Uncoated Business Cards

So, what are the guidelines and what you should keep in mind when choosing the card stock and the coating

Gloss Business Cards:

Gloss business cards are either printed on gloss coated paper and/or gets AQ or Super High Gloss UV coating after printing. Glossy business cards are shiny and very nice. One thing to keep in mind is that they are not writable! One advantage of C2S printed business cards is that they would accept post production treatment (or even inline) such as spot UV coating. They are a very good option for photo bsuienss cards or image business cards as gloss coating tends to bring the photo up!

Matte Business Cards:

Matte finish business cards are unique! The have this very special silky soft feeling and they look a lot more traditional than the gloss business cards. They are writable and that gives it an advantage.
On the other hand they would not accept spot UV treatment as its coating is not suitable for that.

Uncoated Stock Business Cards:

Uncoated Business Cards, Like Linen Business Cards. These are the very basic cards printed on untreated papers. No gloss or matte coating. They can be unique though! They can be embossed/Debossed. Foil Stamped. They can range from very basic to an extremely custom cards!

Now you have it! So next time you think business cards printing, make sure you choose your card stock options based on your needs and ultimate goal!