Know all about Shale and Taconite properties here. All properties of rocks are important as they define the type of rock and its application. Shale and Taconite belong to Sedimentary Rocks.Texture of Shale is Clastic, Splintery whereas that of Taconite is Banded, Trellis. Shale appears Muddy and Taconite appears Layered, Banded, Veined and Shiny. The luster of Shale is dull while that of Taconite is earthy. Shale is available in black, brown, buff, green, grey, red, yellow colors whereas Taconite is available in red, reddish brown colors. The commercial uses of Shale are creating artwork, pottery and that of Taconite are as a touchstone, cemetery markers, creating artwork.