The history of mosaic tile dates back some 4,000 years, and though there is some disagreement as to its exact origins, most historians believe the use of mosaics came to the Greek via Egypt [Wikipedia].

Modern mosaic tiles offer you a diversity of colors, shapes and styles to create one-of-a-kind appeal on nearly any interior or exterior surface.

What is mosaic tile? Mosaic tile is an arrangement of small squares or pieces of stone, colored glass, porcelain, marble, travertine or other materials assembled in a way that creates a picture or complex geometric pattern. The small squares that make up a mosaic are known as tessera (the Greek word for “four”).

What are some of the cool properties of mosaic tile?  The look of mosaic tile can be quite mesmerizing. Tessellation, the complex mathematical process that produces the repetition of geometric shapes with no gaps or overlap over a two-dimensional plane, deserves most of the credit for this bedazzling effect.

What is mosaic tile used for? Mosaic tile is used as a decorative application for flooring and walls, kitchen counters and backsplashes, for shower or tub surrounds and on variety of surfaces, both indoors and out.

What can you use mosaic tile for? Step up the look of your home’s staircase by using mosaic tile on the risers. Use mosaic stones to create a beautiful pathway through your garden. Or cover a reclaimed wood table with mosaic tile and give it an artsy new finish.

See more interesting ways to use mosaic tile after the jump.