Gibbsite is often compared with boehmite and diaspore, as all three are aluminum hydroxides found in bauxite. The differences lie in their crystal structures and the conditions under which they form:

Boehmite: Boehmite (AlO(OH)) forms under more intense weathering conditions and is typically harder than gibbsite.
Diaspore: Diaspore (AlO(OH)) is also harder and typically occurs under more extreme conditions.
In summary, gibbsite is a soft, hydrous aluminum hydroxide mineral that plays a crucial role in the production of aluminum and serves as an important indicator of certain weathering processes in geology.