Marble Chips vs River Rock
Side-by-side comparison of Marble Chips and River Rock to help you choose the right gravel for your project.
Overview
Marble chips are decorative, angular stones made from crushed marble. Their bright white color reflects heat and adds contrast in landscape designs.
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.
Common Uses
Marble Chips
- ✓ Landscaping beds
- ✓ Garden borders
- ✓ Decorative ground cover
River Rock
- ✓ Landscaping
- ✓ Dry creek beds
- ✓ Drainage
- ✓ Decorative borders
- ✓ Erosion control
- ✓ Pond and water features
Pros & Cons
Marble Chips
- + Bright appearance
- + Reflects sunlight
- + Long-lasting
- − Can discolor over time
- − Poor compaction
- − Glare in full sun
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
Cost Comparison
| Measure | Marble Chips | River Rock |
|---|---|---|
| Per ton | $60 – $120 | $40 – $100 |
| Per cubic yard | $75 – $150 | $45 – $120 |
Sizes & Colors
Marble Chips
Commonly available in 1/2"–1" sizes. Bright white to off-white.
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.
Published February 11, 2026
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