Know all about Laterite and Basanite properties here. All properties of rocks are important as they define the type of rock and its application. Laterite belongs to Sedimentary Rocks while Basanite belongs to Igneous Rocks.Texture of Laterite is Earthy, Massive, Porphyritic whereas that of Basanite is Aphanitic to Porphyritic. Laterite appears Rough and Banded and Basanite appears Glassy or Pearly. The luster of Laterite is dull while that of Basanite is waxy and dull. Laterite is available in brown, buff, red colors whereas Basanite is available in black, brown, green, grey, red, white colors. The commercial uses of Laterite are an oil and gas reservoir, source of bauxite, used in aquariums and that of Basanite are as a touchstone, creating artwork, gemstone, in fire-starting tools, manufacture of tools, metallurgical flux, jewelry, to ignite fire, used in flintlock firearms.