Deep Sea Shell Tiles
Discover the Ethereal Beauty of the Ocean Floor
Transform your space with the luminous elegance of Deep Sea Shell Tiles—nature’s most exquisite architectural material. Sourced from the world’s pristine oceans, our premium mother of pearl mosaic tiles capture the mystical iridescence of rare deepwater shells, bringing unparalleled luxury and timeless sophistication to your home or commercial project.
What Are Deep Sea Shell Tiles?
Deep Sea Shell Tiles are premium mosaic tiles crafted from authentic pearl oyster shells harvested after pearl cultivation from the world’s most pristine waters. Each tile showcases the natural iridescent inner lining (nacre) of rare mollusk shells, carefully cut, polished, and mounted on mesh backing or substrate panels to create stunning decorative surfaces.
Unlike ordinary ceramic or porcelain tiles, Deep Sea Shell Tiles are 100% natural products featuring:
- Authentic mother of pearl from genuine pearl oyster shells
- Hand-selected premium materials from sustainable post-pearl-harvest sources
- Natural iridescent finish that changes color with light angles
- Unique patterns - no two tiles are exactly alike
- Eco-friendly luxury utilizing shells that would otherwise be discarded
Our Rare Deep Sea Shell Collection
White Butterfly Pearl Oyster (Pinctada maxima)
Origin: Australian Waters
The most coveted of all pearl shells, White Butterfly (Silver Lip) Pearl Oyster from Australia produces shells with spectacular silvery-white iridescence and subtle rainbow overtones. These large shells (up to 12 inches) create tiles with:
- Luminous white to cream base tones
- Silver and blue iridescent highlights
- Smooth, refined surface texture
- Perfect for creating bright, sophisticated spaces
Ideal Applications: Kitchen backsplash, bathroom vanity surrounds, fireplace accents, luxury residential walls
Gold Lip Pearl Oyster (Pinctada maxima)
Origin: Indonesia, Malaysia, Philippines
Harvested from the warm tropical waters of Southeast Asia, Gold Lip Pearl Oyster shells display warm golden and champagne hues with stunning metallic luster. These premium shells feature:
- Rich golden and honey tones
- Bronze and copper iridescent shimmer
- Natural depth and dimension
- Exceptional durability
Ideal Applications: Accent walls, master bathroom features, hotel lobbies, upscale restaurant interiors
Black Lip Pearl Oyster (Pinctada margaritifera)
Origin: Tahitian Waters
The rarest and most dramatic of our collection, Black Lip Pearl Oyster from Tahiti creates tiles with deep, mysterious colors and peacock iridescence. These extraordinary shells showcase:
- Dark charcoal to black base colors
- Green, blue, purple, and bronze overtones
- Intense color-shifting properties
- World-renowned mystical beauty
Ideal Applications: Powder room feature walls, spa environments, contemporary accent installations, luxury commercial spaces
Abalone Shell (Haliotis species)
Origin: Australia, New Zealand
Prized for centuries for its extraordinary color play, Abalone shell delivers the most vibrant iridescence in nature. Our Abalone tiles feature:
- Rainbow spectrum of colors (blue, green, purple, pink)
- Intense natural luster
- Distinctive wave-like patterns
- Unmatched visual impact
Ideal Applications: Decorative borders, artistic installations, shower niches, statement walls
Product Specifications & Technical Details
Standard Sizes & Formats
- Sheet Size: 12" x 12" (300mm x 300mm) - most common
- Alternative Sizes: 11.5" x 11.5", 12" x 24" linear sheets
- Thickness: 2mm (thin profile) or 8mm (with substrate backing)
- Coverage: Approximately 0.92-1.0 sq. ft. per sheet
- Mounting: Mesh-mounted or panel-mounted options
Available Patterns
- Penny Round - Classic circular mosaic pattern
- Herringbone - Sophisticated diagonal arrangement
- Subway Brick - Timeless rectangular layout
- Square Grid - Clean, contemporary design
- Hexagon - Modern geometric pattern
- Fish Scale (Scallop) - Organic, wave-inspired design
- Basketweave - Textured dimensional pattern
- 3D Dimensional - Sculptural relief designs
Finish Options
- Polished - High-gloss reflective surface for maximum iridescence
- Natural - Subtle luster preserving organic texture
- Semi-polished - Balanced sheen for versatile applications
Technical Properties
- Material Composition: 100% natural shell (calcium carbonate)
- Water Resistance: Excellent (approved for wet areas)
- Heat Resistance: Suitable for areas up to 150°F (65°C)
- Durability: Scratch and chip-resistant when properly installed
- Weight: Approximately 0.7 lbs per square foot
Where to Use Deep Sea Shell Tiles
Kitchen Applications
- Backsplash: Create a stunning focal point between countertops and cabinets
- Island Sides: Transform your kitchen island into a jewelry-box centerpiece
- Accent Strips: Add borders or decorative bands to complement other materials
- Niche Backing: Highlight open shelving with iridescent backdrop
Bathroom Elegance
- Shower Walls: Approved for vertical shower applications (not floor)
- Vanity Backsplash: Frame mirrors with luminous shell tile borders
- Bathtub Surround: Create a spa-like sanctuary
- Accent Walls: Feature walls behind freestanding tubs
- Powder Room: Complete wall coverage for dramatic impact
Living Spaces
- Fireplace Surrounds: Heat-resistant up to 150°F
- Feature Walls: Full wall installations for stunning visual impact
- Bar Fronts: Hospitality and residential bar applications
- Column Wraps: Architectural detail enhancement
- Wainscoting: Sophisticated wall protection and decoration
Commercial Applications
- Hotel lobbies and reception areas
- Luxury retail displays
- Restaurant and bar interiors (light traffic areas only)
- Spa and wellness centers
- Corporate office feature walls
Installation Restrictions
❌ Not Recommended For:
- High-traffic floors
- Shower floors (slip hazard)
- Exterior applications (frost/UV damage)
- Swimming pools (chemical damage)
- Steam rooms (excessive heat/moisture)
- Commercial kitchen backsplash (grease exposure)
Installation Guidelines
Professional Installation Recommended
Due to the delicate nature and high value of Deep Sea Shell Tiles, professional installation is strongly recommended.
Surface Preparation
- Substrate must be clean, dry, level, and structurally sound
- Maximum substrate variation: 1/8" per 10 feet
- Recommended backerboard for wet areas: Cement board or waterproof membrane
Adhesive Requirements
- Recommended Thinset: Laticrete 254 Platinum or equivalent white polymer-modified thinset
- Application: Use 1/4" x 1/4" square-notch trowel
- Coverage: Back-butter individual sheets for complete adhesion
- Setting Time: Allow 24-48 hours before grouting
Grout Selection
- Recommended: Non-sanded grout or epoxy grout
- Why Non-Sanded: Prevents scratching of polished shell surface
- Joint Width: 1/16" to 1/8" joints
- Color Options: White, cream, or complementary neutral tones
- Groutless Option: Tiles can be installed with minimal joints for seamless appearance
Sealing
- Shell Tiles: Do not require sealing (non-porous natural material)
- Grout Lines: Must be sealed with penetrating grout sealer
- Alternative: Use epoxy grout (no sealing required)
Cutting & Trimming
- Use wet saw with diamond blade designed for natural stone
- Cut mesh backing with utility knife or scissors
- Handle individual pieces carefully to prevent chipping
- Always wear safety glasses and work in ventilated area
Care & Maintenance Guide
Daily Cleaning
- Wipe with soft, damp microfiber cloth
- Use warm water for routine maintenance
- Dry with clean towel to prevent water spots
- Avoid abrasive sponges or scouring pads
Deep Cleaning
- Cleaner: Neutral pH tile cleaner or mild soap solution
- Application: Spray on surface, wipe gently with soft cloth
- Rinse: Clean water wipe-down to remove residue
- Frequency: Weekly or as needed
What to AVOID
❌ Acidic cleaners (vinegar, lemon, citrus-based products)
❌ Abrasive powders or scouring agents
❌ Steel wool or rough scrub pads
❌ Bleach or ammonia-based cleaners
❌ Steam cleaners (excessive heat)
❌ High-pressure washers
Restoring Shine
- Apply microcrystalline wax periodically to restore luster
- Buff gently with soft cloth for brilliant finish
- Professional restoration available for damaged tiles
Stain Prevention
- Wipe spills immediately (especially oils and acids)
- Use cutting boards in kitchen areas (never cut directly on tiles)
- Apply grout sealer as preventive measure
- Avoid contact with harsh chemicals
Why Choose Our Deep Sea Shell Tiles?
✓ Unmatched Natural Beauty
Every tile features unique iridescent patterns created by nature over years of shell growth—impossible to replicate artificially.
✓ Sustainable Luxury
Our shells are exclusively post-pearl-harvest materials, ensuring no marine life is harmed. We partner with ethical pearl farms committed to ocean conservation.
✓ Investment Quality
Mother of pearl tiles are rare, durable, and timeless—adding significant value to your property while creating spaces that never go out of style.
✓ Light-Enhancing Properties
Natural nacre reflects and refracts light, making spaces appear larger, brighter, and more dynamic throughout the day.
✓ Versatile Design Compatibility
Complements marble, granite, glass, stainless steel, and wood—perfect for transitional, contemporary, coastal, and traditional interiors.
✓ Low Maintenance Elegance
Unlike porous natural stone, shell tiles resist moisture and stains, requiring minimal upkeep to maintain their beauty.
Design Inspiration & Color Palettes
Coastal Contemporary
Pair White Butterfly tiles with navy blue cabinetry and brass fixtures for sophisticated beach house elegance.
Modern Luxury
Combine Black Lip Tahitian tiles with matte black fixtures and marble countertops for dramatic, high-end appeal.
Warm Traditional
Use Gold Lip tiles with cream cabinetry and bronze hardware for inviting, timeless warmth.
Artistic Eclectic
Feature Abalone tiles as accent borders mixed with colorful glass mosaics for vibrant, creative spaces.
Spa Sanctuary
Install White Butterfly tiles floor-to-ceiling in bathrooms with natural wood and stone for tranquil retreat atmosphere.
Ordering Information
Sample Program
- Order 4"x5" samples before purchasing
- $3.99 per sample with free shipping
- Experience the iridescence and quality firsthand
- Up to 5 samples per order
Box Quantities
- Sheets per Box: 20 sheets
- Coverage per Box: 19-20 square feet
- Minimum Order: 1 box (most suppliers)
Calculating Your Needs
- Measure your space in square feet (Length × Width)
- Add 10-15% for cuts, waste, and future repairs
- Divide by coverage per sheet (typically 0.92-1.0 sq ft)
- Round up to nearest full box
Example:
- Backsplash area: 25 sq. ft.
- With 15% overage: 28.75 sq. ft.
- Sheets needed: 30 sheets
- Boxes to order: 2 boxes (40 sheets = 38 sq. ft.)
Shipping
- Free ground shipping to continental U.S. (most suppliers)
- Carefully packaged to prevent damage
- Delivery time: 5-10 business days
- International shipping available (contact for rates)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Deep Sea Shell Tiles real shells?
A: Yes, 100% authentic mother of pearl from genuine pearl oyster shells sourced from sustainable aquaculture farms.
Q: Will the iridescent color fade over time?
A: No. The iridescence is the natural structure of nacre (calcium carbonate layers), not pigment, so it’s permanent and will not fade.
Q: Can I install these tiles myself?
A: While possible for experienced DIYers, professional installation is recommended due to the delicate nature and high value of the material.
Q: Do these tiles need to be sealed?
A: The shell tiles themselves do not require sealing, but grout lines must be sealed to prevent staining.
Q: Are they suitable for shower walls?
A: Yes, Deep Sea Shell Tiles are approved for vertical shower wall applications but not for shower floors.
Q: How do I clean mother of pearl tiles?
A: Use warm water and neutral pH cleaner with a soft cloth. Avoid acidic or abrasive cleaners.
Q: Can these tiles be used outdoors?
A: No. Mother of pearl is not suitable for exterior applications due to UV degradation and frost damage.
Q: What’s the difference between 2mm and 8mm tiles?
A: 2mm tiles are pure shell mounted on mesh; 8mm tiles have 2mm shell laminated onto 6mm substrate (magnesia or PVC) for added rigidity.
Q: Are these tiles eco-friendly?
A: Yes. Our shells are post-pearl-harvest byproducts from sustainable pearl farming, utilizing materials that would otherwise be discarded.
Q: Why are Deep Sea Shell Tiles more expensive than ceramic?
A: These are rare, natural materials hand-harvested from limited deepwater sources, carefully processed, and irreplaceable—making them luxury investment materials.
Recommended Products & Pairings
Complementary Materials
- White marble subway tiles
- Soft grey porcelain flooring
- Glass mosaic accent strips
- Brushed gold or brass fixtures
- Natural stone countertops
- Stainless steel trim pieces
Grout Recommendations
- Laticrete Permacolor® Unsanded Grout - White, Alabaster, or matching custom colors
- Mapei Flexcolor CQ - Pre-mixed, ready-to-use, no sealing required
- Litokol Starlike® Epoxy Grout - Superior stain resistance
Installation Materials
- Laticrete 254 Platinum Thinset
- RedGard® Waterproofing Membrane (for wet areas)
- TEC® Skill Set Tile Spacers (1/16")
- Miracle Sealants 511 Impregnator (for grout sealing)
Trade & Contractor Program
Join our professional trade program for:
- 10% discount on all orders
- Priority customer service
- Extended payment terms
- Project consultation support
- Sample libraries for client presentations
- Volume discounts on large orders
Contact us to register your business and start saving today.
Commitment to Quality & Sustainability
We partner exclusively with certified pearl farms that adhere to:
- Sustainable harvesting practices
- Marine ecosystem protection
- Fair labor standards
- Quality assurance at every production stage
Every purchase supports responsible ocean stewardship and artisan communities in pearl-farming regions.
Get Started Today
Ready to transform your space with the luxury of Deep Sea Shell Tiles?
- Order Samples - Experience the beauty in person
- Calculate Your Needs - Use our square footage calculator
- Consult Our Experts - Free design support available
- Place Your Order - Fast, free shipping
- Professional Installation - We can connect you with certified installers
