A mother of pearl backsplash can add a luxurious and unique feel to any kitchen or bathroom. The iridescent nature of mother of pearl tiles creates a shimmering effect that is eye-catching and elegant. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about mother of pearl backsplash tiles – from their origin and manufacturing process to installation tips and design ideas to incorporate them into your home.
What is Mother of Pearl?
Mother of pearl, also known as nacre, is the interior lining of some mollusk shells, including oysters, mussels, and abalone. It is made up of thin layers of nacreous material that build up over time as the mollusk grows.
The iridescent sheen of mother of pearl is caused by how it reflects light. The many thin layers diffract light to product an array of rainbow-like colors that shift and change with viewing angle. This makes mother of pearl tiles perfect for backsplashes, as they add visual interest and a luxurious shimmer to your kitchen or bathroom.
Manufacturing Process for Mother of Pearl Tiles
Authentic mother of pearl backsplash tiles are made from real nacre harvested from mollusk shells. The process starts by collecting and preparing the shells. The outer portion of the shell is cut away to reveal the smooth, iridescent nacre on the interior.
The nacre is then cut into thin sheets and backed with a mesh for structural support. The mesh-backed sheets are cut into small tiles of various shapes and sizes. Common sizes range from 1-inch mosaics to 4-inch subway tiles or larger formats like hexagons.
The backing helps strengthen the naturally brittle nacre so it can stand up to use on walls. It also allows for easier installation compared to using raw mother of pearl fragments.
Benefits of Using Mother of Pearl Tile
There are many benefits that make mother of pearl an exceptional choice for backsplash tiles:
- Natural Beauty: The iridescent, rainbow-like colors emitted from mother of pearl tiles lend a sense of luxury. The tiles have depth and visual interest that man-made materials lack.
- Light Reflection: The layered structure of the tiles beautifully reflect and refract light. This helps brighten up a space.
- Durable: Although mother of pearl is brittle in its raw natural form, the backing on the tiles makes them durable and water-resistant.
- Easy Maintenance: Mother of pearl tiles do not require sealing or special cleaning routines. Simply wipe down with a damp cloth as needed.
- Timeless Appeal: Natural materials like mother of pearl have an enduring, classic elegance. They bring a sense of refinement to kitchen or bath backsplashes.
Design Ideas for Mother of Pearl Backsplashes
Mother of pearl backsplash tiles lend themselves well to both traditional and contemporary design aesthetics. Here are some ideas for how to incorporate them into your space:
Coastal Kitchen
The ocean-inspired colors of mother of pearl tiles perfectly suit coastal design schemes. Pair them with elements like reclaimed driftwood, linen fabrics, and antique accessories for a beach house vibe. Use rectangular subway tiles or mosaic penny tiles to cover a backsplash.
Modern Bathroom
While mother of pearl tiles have an inherent natural beauty, they can also look strikingly modern. Try a bold geometric mosaic pattern of mother of pearl tiles as a backsplash in a contemporary bathroom. Pair with sleek metal hardware and modern accents.
Accent Strip
Use mother of pearl tiles selectively by creating an accent backsplash strip behind sinks or stoves. Contrast them with more neutral tiles on the surrounding walls. Try pairing elongated vertically-installed tiles with marble subway tiles.
Shower Surround
Cover an entire shower surround in mother of pearl mosaic tiles. The humidity and steam in shower spaces will accentuate the breathtaking shimmer of the tiles. Keep the shower floor simple with classic white marble.
Backsplash Niche
Niches carved out of a backsplash are the perfect spot to highlight mother of pearl tiles. Tile the niche in an elegant shape or geometric design. Use the same tiles or a coordinating neutral elsewhere on the backsplash.
Tips for Installing Mother of Pearl Tile
Installing mother of pearl tile backsplashes requires some special considerations:
- Use a professional: Mother of pearl tiles should be installed by an experienced tile professional due to their brittle nature. An expert can also properly prep and seal the subsurface.
- Choose the right grout: Pick an unsanded grout so it does not scratch the delicate tile surface. A matching colored or slightly contrasting grout works well.
- Use a latex additive: Mixing latex additive into the thinset mortar makes application easier and forms a stronger bond.
- Check lippage: Pay close attention to lippage, which is height variation between adjacent tiles. Too much lippage ruins the beauty of the iridescent effect.
- Seal after installation: Although durable, it helps to seal mother of pearl tiles after installation to protect from stains and water penetration. Use a penetrating sealer made for natural stone.
FAQ About Mother of Pearl Tile Backsplashes
Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about installing and caring for mother of pearl backsplash tiles:
Are mother of pearl tiles suitable for kitchen backsplashes?
Yes, mother of pearl tiles work beautifully behind sinks and ranges. The durable backed tiles resist heat, stains, and water exposure in kitchen environments. Their shimmery colors make them an ideal accent in food prep areas.
How durable are mother of pearl tiles?
Mother of pearl is a brittle material, but backing the thin sheets with mesh stabilizes them and makes the tiles quite durable. They hold up to typical backsplash wear and tear. Take care not to drop heavy objects on them which could crack the tiles.
Do you have to seal mother of pearl tiles?
It is highly recommended to seal mother of pearl tiles after installation. Sealing will protect them from staining and water penetration. Use a penetrating sealer specifically made for natural stone tiles. Reapply sealer about once a year.
What is the best grout to use with mother of pearl tiles?
Always use an unsanded grout. Sanded grout can scratch the delicate nacre surface. White or colored unsanded grout provides an attractive contrast that allows the colors of the tiles to stand out.
Can you use mother of pearl tiles in a shower?
Yes, mother of pearl makes a breathtaking shower tile when installed correctly. Make sure to waterproof shower walls properly, use latex-modified thinset, professionally seal tiles, and provide good ventilation to prevent humidity damage.
How do you clean mother of pearl tile?
Mother of pearl tiles are easy to clean. Simply use a soft cloth with warm water and a gentle pH-neutral cleaner made for natural stone. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the nacre. Blot spills quickly to prevent staining.
Bring Luxurious Shimmer to Your Home
A mother of pearl backsplash unique beauty and refined elegance to any home. The naturally iridescent tiles reflect light in stunning rainbow hues that add visual depth and interest. Mother of pearl tiles work in both traditional and contemporary spaces, livening up backsplashes and shower surrounds with their luxurious shimmer. With proper installation and care, you can enjoy these glamorous natural tiles for years to come. Let mother of pearl tiles lend your kitchen or bathroom an irreplaceable luminous charm.