Embodiments of the invention related to bearing assemblies and methods of forming the bearing assemblies that include at least one superhard bearing element exhibiting a superhard bearing surface having a polished surface finish or a superhard bearing surface having a textured surface. In an embodiment, a bearing assembly includes a support ring. The bearing assembly includes at least one superhard bearing element. The at least one superhard bearing element includes a superhard bearing surface having a polished surface finished or a textured surface. The at least one superhard bearing element is secured to the support ring.