Know all about Laterite and Diatomite properties here. All properties of rocks are important as they define the type of rock and its application. Laterite and Diatomite belong to Sedimentary Rocks.Texture of Laterite is Earthy, Massive, Porphyritic whereas that of Diatomite is Clastic or Non-Clastic. Laterite appears Rough and Banded and Diatomite appears Soft. The luster of Laterite and Diatomite is dull. Laterite is available in brown, buff, red colors whereas Diatomite is available in grey, white, yellow colors. The commercial uses of Laterite are an oil and gas reservoir, source of bauxite, used in aquariums and that 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.