Know all about Diatomite and Shonkinite properties here. All properties of rocks are important as they define the type of rock and its application. Diatomite belongs to Sedimentary Rocks while Shonkinite belongs to Igneous Rocks.Texture of Diatomite is Clastic or Non-Clastic whereas that of Shonkinite is Earthy. Diatomite appears Soft and Shonkinite appears Banded and Foilated. The luster of Diatomite is dull while that of Shonkinite is subvitreous to dull. Diatomite is available in grey, white, yellow colors whereas Shonkinite is available in brown, buff, cream, green, grey, pink, white 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 Shonkinite are cemetery markers, creating artwork.