Comparison · Igneous Rocks
Diorite vs Larvikite
Diorite and Larvikite are easy to confuse because both are igneous rocks. Both sit near Mohs 6–7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Below is a side-by-side comparison of their properties and the quick tests that separate them.
Key differences between Diorite and Larvikite
- Both sit near Mohs 6–7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
- Hold a thin edge to the light: Diorite is Opaque, Larvikite is opaque.
- They overlap in gray, black, and white, but Diorite also comes in multicolored and Larvikite also comes in blue.
Diorite vs Larvikite properties
| Property | Diorite | Larvikite |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Igneous Rocks | Igneous Rocks |
| Mohs hardness | 6–7 | 6 |
| Luster | Vitreous to dull (granular) | vitreous |
| Streak | — | White to light gray |
| Transparency | Opaque | opaque |
| Specific gravity | 2.8–3.0 | 2.75 |
| Crystal system | — | varies |
| Common colors | Salt-and-pepper gray, Dark gray, Black and white speckled | Dark gray, Blue gray, Black, Silver blue, White |
| Rarity | common | common |
| Typical specimen value | $1–$75+ | $5–$300+ |
Which is more valuable?
Larvikite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $40 against $10 for Diorite, and premium Larvikite can reach $300 or more.
About Diorite
Diorite is a coarse-grained, intrusive igneous rock of intermediate composition, made mostly of plagioclase feldspar and dark hornblende or biotite, with little to no quartz. Its classic 'salt and pepper' look comes from the contrast between light gray-white feldspar and black amphibole crystals visible to the naked eye. It crystallizes slowly underground, giving it a fully crystalline, phaneritic texture.
About Larvikite
Larvikite is a feldspar-rich igneous rock famous for blue-silver flashes from feldspar crystals. It is often sold as decorative stone and can be confused with labradorite-bearing rocks.
Diorite vs Larvikite FAQ
Is Diorite the same as Larvikite?
No. Both are igneous rocks, but they are distinct rock types with different hardness, streak or luster. Both sit near Mohs 6–7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead.
How can you tell Diorite from Larvikite?
Both sit near Mohs 6–7, so a scratch test alone will not separate them. Lean on luster, streak and heft instead. Hold a thin edge to the light: Diorite is Opaque, Larvikite is opaque. They overlap in gray, black, and white, but Diorite also comes in multicolored and Larvikite also comes in blue.
Which is harder, Diorite or Larvikite?
Diorite is harder: Mohs 6–7 against Mohs 6 for Larvikite.
Which is more valuable, Diorite or Larvikite?
Larvikite is usually the more valuable of the two: a typical collector specimen runs about $40 against $10 for Diorite, and premium Larvikite can reach $300 or more.
