#89 Stone vs River Rock

#89 Stone

Small angular crushed stone approximately 3/8 inch and smaller. Similar in size to pea gravel but with angular edges that provide better compaction and stability. A versatile fine aggregate used in both construction and landscaping applications.

River Rock

Naturally rounded stones smoothed by water erosion. Available in sizes from 1 to 5+ inches. River rock adds a polished, natural look to any landscape and is prized for its smooth texture and visual appeal.

#89 Stone

• ✓ Walkways
• ✓ Pipe bedding
• ✓ Asphalt mix
• ✓ Between pavers
• ✓ Top dressing
• ✓ Drainage backfill

River Rock

• ✓ Landscaping
• ✓ Dry creek beds
• ✓ Drainage
• ✓ Decorative borders
• ✓ Erosion control
• ✓ Pond and water features

#89 Stone

• + Angular edges compact better than rounded pea gravel
• + Small size fills tight spaces
• + Good for pipe bedding and utility trenches
• + Comfortable enough for walkways
• + Excellent drainage

• − Too small for driveway base layers
• − Can migrate without edging
• − Less decorative than pea gravel
• − May be tracked by shoes
• − Not widely stocked at all suppliers

River Rock

• + Beautiful, natural appearance
• + Extremely durable and long-lasting
• + Heavy enough to resist displacement
• + No sharp edges
• + Low maintenance

• − More expensive than crushed stone
• − Heavy and difficult to move
• − Not suitable for walking surfaces
• − Cannot be compacted
• − Limited use for structural applications

#89 Stone

Angular crushed stone pieces 3/8" and smaller. Color varies by quarry — typically gray, blue-gray, or tan. The angular shape distinguishes it from similarly-sized pea gravel.

River Rock

River rock comes in a wide range of sizes: small (1"–2"), medium (2"–3"), large (3"–5"), and boulders (5"+). Natural colors include gray, brown, tan, white, black, and multi-colored blends. Mexican beach pebbles offer polished black and gray options.