Know all about Gneiss and Phyllite properties here. All properties of rocks are important as they define the type of rock and its application. Gneiss and Phyllite belong to Metamorphic Rocks.Texture of Gneiss is Banded, Foliated, Platy whereas that of Phyllite is Phyllitic Sheen, Slaty. Gneiss appears Foliated and Phyllite appears Crinkled or Wavy. The luster of Gneiss is dull while that of Phyllite is phyllitic. Gneiss is available in black, brown, pink, red, white colors whereas Phyllite is available in black to grey, light greenish grey colors. The commercial uses of Gneiss are cemetery markers, jewelry, tombstones, used in aquariums and that of Phyllite are cemetery markers, commemorative tablets, creating artwork, writing slates.