Crushed Stone vs Marble Chips
Side-by-side comparison of Crushed Stone and Marble Chips to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
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.
Marble chips are decorative, angular stones made from crushed marble. Their bright white color reflects heat and adds contrast in landscape designs.
Common Uses
Crushed Stone
- ✓ Driveways
- ✓ Road base
- ✓ Foundations
- ✓ Retaining wall backfill
- ✓ French drains
- ✓ Concrete aggregate
Marble Chips
- ✓ Landscaping beds
- ✓ Garden borders
- ✓ Decorative ground cover
Pros & Cons
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
Marble Chips
- + Bright appearance
- + Reflects sunlight
- + Long-lasting
- − Can discolor over time
- − Poor compaction
- − Glare in full sun
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Crushed Stone | Marble Chips |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $20 – $40 | $60 – $120 |
| Per cubic yard | $25 – $55 | $75 – $150 |
Sizes & Colors
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.
Marble Chips
Commonly available in 1/2"–1" sizes. Bright white to off-white.
Published February 11, 2026
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