Gypsum/ˈdʒɪpsəm/ Definition 1 of 1Pro Tip 1/3Industrial Use Gypsum has widespread industrial use, such as in construction and agriculture. The new factory processes gypsum for various industrial applications. Pro Tip 2/3Not Chalk Gypsum is sometimes confused with chalk, but they're different minerals. Unlike chalk, gypsum is often used for making drywall. Pro Tip 3/3Color Variations Gypsum can also be colorless, pink, or brown, not just white or gray. The colorless variety of gypsum is used for making clear ornaments.