GoodGravel

#57 Gravel vs #89 Stone

Side-by-side comparison of #57 Gravel and #89 Stone to help you choose the right gravel for your project.

Overview

#57 Gravel

Crushed stone approximately 3/4 to 1 inch in size. One of the most versatile and commonly used gravel sizes in both residential and commercial construction. #57 stone is the go-to aggregate for drainage, driveways, and concrete production.

#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.

Common Uses

#57 Gravel

  • Driveways
  • Drainage
  • Concrete mix
  • Pipe bedding
  • Backfill
  • Parking areas

#89 Stone

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

Pros & Cons

#57 Gravel

  • + Extremely versatile — works for many applications
  • + Excellent drainage characteristics
  • + Good compaction when combined with fines
  • + Widely available nationwide
  • + Cost-effective
  • Too coarse for comfortable walking
  • Angular edges
  • Shifts under foot traffic without stabilization
  • Requires a finer top layer for driveways
  • Not decorative

#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

Cost Comparison

Measure #57 Gravel #89 Stone
Per ton $20 – $35 $22 – $40
Per cubic yard $25 – $45 $28 – $50

Sizes & Colors

#57 Gravel

#57 gravel consists of angular crushed stone pieces ranging from 3/4" to 1" in diameter. Color depends on the quarry source — typically gray, blue-gray, or brown. The stones are angular and irregular, which helps them interlock.

#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.

Published February 11, 2026

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