GoodGravel

#89 Stone vs Stone Dust

Side-by-side comparison of #89 Stone and Stone Dust to help you choose the right gravel for your project.

Overview

#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.

Stone Dust

Stone dust is a finely crushed aggregate made up of stone particles smaller than 1/4 inch. It compacts tightly when installed and lightly moistened, creating a firm, smooth surface ideal for leveling and base preparation.

Common Uses

#89 Stone

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

Stone Dust

  • Paver base
  • Walkways
  • Patios
  • Leveling layer
  • Pathways

Pros & Cons

#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

Stone Dust

  • + Compacts very tightly
  • + Creates a smooth, level surface
  • + Affordable and widely available
  • + Easy to shape and grade
  • Poor drainage
  • Can become muddy if overwatered
  • Dusty when dry
  • Erodes without edging

Cost Comparison

Measure #89 Stone Stone Dust
Per ton $22 – $40 $15 – $30
Per cubic yard $28 – $50 $20 – $40

Sizes & Colors

#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.

Stone Dust

Fine crushed stone particles under 1/4 inch. Color varies by source rock and is typically gray or tan.

Published February 11, 2026

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