Bluestone vs Crushed Stone
Side-by-side comparison of Bluestone and Crushed Stone to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Bluestone is a dense, fine-grained natural stone commonly used in the northeastern United States. It is valued for its durability, rich blue-gray color, and clean, angular appearance.
Angular, mechanically crushed rock available in various sizes. Excellent for compaction and stability. Crushed stone is the workhorse of the aggregate industry, used in everything from road construction to residential driveways.
Common Uses
Bluestone
- ✓ Walkways
- ✓ Patios
- ✓ Landscaping
- ✓ Driveway borders
Crushed Stone
- ✓ Driveways
- ✓ Road base
- ✓ Foundations
- ✓ Retaining wall backfill
- ✓ French drains
- ✓ Concrete aggregate
Pros & Cons
Bluestone
- + Highly durable
- + Attractive natural color
- + Resists weathering
- + Slip-resistant texture
- − Expensive
- − Heavy
- − Regional availability
Crushed Stone
- + Compacts firmly for stable surfaces
- + Excellent load-bearing capacity
- + Interlocking shape prevents shifting
- + Widely available and affordable
- + Multiple size options
- − Angular edges are uncomfortable underfoot
- − Dusty when dry
- − Not as decorative as rounded gravel
- − Can be sharp on bare feet
- − May need periodic top-dressing
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Bluestone | Crushed Stone |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $80 – $150 | $20 – $40 |
| Per cubic yard | $100 – $180 | $25 – $55 |
Sizes & Colors
Bluestone
Available as gravel, chips, or slabs. Colors range from blue-gray to steel blue.
Crushed Stone
Crushed stone is available in sizes from stone dust (fine) up to 4 inches. Common grades include #8 (3/8"), #57 (3/4"–1"), #3 (1"–2"), and #1 (2"–4"). Colors depend on the source rock — typically gray, blue-gray, or tan.
Published February 11, 2026
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