Know all about Diatomite and Laterite properties here. All properties of rocks are important as they define the type of rock and its application. Diatomite and Laterite belong to Sedimentary Rocks.Texture of Diatomite is Clastic or Non-Clastic whereas that of Laterite is Earthy, Massive, Porphyritic. Diatomite appears Soft and Laterite appears Rough and Banded. The luster of Diatomite and Laterite is dull. Diatomite is available in grey, white, yellow colors whereas Laterite is available in brown, buff, red colors. The commercial uses of Diatomite are alumina refineries, animal feed filler, as a feed additive for livestock, creating artwork, drawing on blackboards, fire resistant, gymnasts, athletes and mountain climbers use for grip, in aquifers, soil conditioner, to ignite fire, used as a filter medium, used as an insecticide, whiting material in toothpaste, paint and paper and that of Laterite are an oil and gas reservoir, source of bauxite, used in aquariums.