Rip Rap is a permanent cover of rock used to stabilize shorelines.  The rock to be used as rip rap must be capable of withstanding all wave action of the water where it is used.  The material used for rip rap is normally a fieldstone or quarry stone which comes in various sizes.  The appropriate size to use primarily depends on the intended use of the structure.  Typically a geotextile fabric will be installed beneath the rip rap to prevent unraveling and soil loss.  Rip rap applied correctly can protect your investment, and beautify it at the same time.