Mother of Pearl Penny Tile
Transform your space with our exquisite Mother of Pearl Penny Tile collection. These luminous 25mm (approximately 1 inch) diameter circular mosaic tiles bring the ethereal beauty of natural seashells into your home, creating an organic ambiance with timeless sophistication. Crafted from premium freshwater mussel shells and deep-sea shells, each tile showcases nature’s iridescent artistry with a polished finish that captures and reflects light beautifully.
Available in three elegant colorways - pristine white, sophisticated black, and warm beige - our Mother of Pearl penny tiles offer versatile design possibilities for both residential and commercial applications.
Product Specifications
Technical Details
- Tile Diameter: 25mm (0.98 inches)
- Thickness: 2mm (5/64 inch)
- Sheet Size: Typically 12" x 12" (305mm x 305mm) mesh-mounted sheets
- Material: Natural Shell - Freshwater Mussel & Deep-Sea Shells
- Finish: Polished, High-Gloss
- Mounting Type: Mesh Backed for Easy Installation
- Coverage: Approximately 1 sq ft per sheet
- Weight: 0.7-1.0 lb per sheet
- Color Options: White, Black, Beige
Material Composition
Our Mother of Pearl tiles are crafted from two premium shell sources:
- Freshwater Mussel Shells: Offering subtle, soft pearlescent tones with natural color variation
- Deep-Sea Shells: Providing richer, more dramatic iridescence and depth
Design Features & Benefits
Aesthetic Excellence
- Natural Iridescence: Each tile displays unique luminous qualities that shift with changing light
- Organic Texture: Authentic shell surface adds tactile dimension and visual interest
- Timeless Appeal: Classic penny round shape complements both vintage and contemporary designs
- Light Enhancement: Polished finish reflects light, brightening spaces naturally
Practical Advantages
- Slip-Resistant Surface: Ideal texture for wet environments like bathrooms and showers
- Durable Construction: Natural shell material withstands daily use when properly maintained
- Versatile Application: Suitable for walls, backsplashes, accent strips, and decorative borders
- Easy Installation: Mesh-mounted sheets simplify DIY and professional installations
- Eco-Friendly: 100% natural shell material with nearly zero water absorption rate
- Moisture Resistant: Excellent performance in humid environments
Applications & Uses
✓ Approved Applications
- Kitchen Backsplash: Create a stunning focal point behind stoves and sinks
- Bathroom Walls: Add spa-like luxury to powder rooms and master baths
- Shower Walls: Transform shower enclosures into elegant retreats
- Accent Strips: Frame mirrors, niches, and architectural features
- Vanity Backsplash: Elevate bathroom vanities with iridescent shimmer
- Fireplace Surrounds: Add sophisticated texture to living spaces
- Feature Walls: Create statement walls in residential and commercial interiors
- Decorative Borders: Define spaces with elegant tile transitions
- Light Traffic Floors: Residential floor applications in low-traffic areas
✗ Not Recommended For
- Shower Floors: Submersion will cause darkening over time
- Pool/Fountain Interiors: Prolonged water submersion not recommended
- High Traffic Floors: Not suitable for commercial floor applications
- Steam Rooms: Extreme moisture conditions may affect longevity
- Outdoor Installations: Best suited for interior applications only
Installation Guide
Before You Begin
- Substrate Preparation: Ensure surface is clean, dry, level, and structurally sound
- Material Inspection: Examine all tiles before installation; verify color consistency
- Dry Layout: Mock up your design to confirm pattern, spacing, and overall look
- Acclimation: Allow tiles to adjust to room temperature before installation
Installation Steps
Materials Needed:
- White thinset mortar (Recommended: Laticrete 254 Platinum)
- Unsanded grout (Recommended: Laticrete Permacolor Unsanded White)
- 3/16" V-notch trowel
- Grout float
- Soft sponge and clean water
- Level and spacers
Step-by-Step Process:
- Apply Thinset: Spread white thinset evenly on substrate using 3/16" V-notch trowel
- Set Tiles: Press mesh-mounted sheets firmly into thinset, ensuring full adhesive coverage
- Maintain Spacing: Match sheet spacing to individual penny spacing (typically 1/16" to 1/8")
- Level Surface: Use level to ensure even plane across all tiles
- Remove Excess: Clean thinset squeeze-out immediately with damp sponge
- Cure Time: Allow 24-48 hours for thinset to fully cure before grouting
- Grout Application: Apply unsanded grout using rubber float at 45-degree angle
- Clean Surface: Wipe excess grout with damp sponge after 15-20 minutes
- Final Cure: Allow 72 hours before exposing to moisture
- Seal Grout: Apply grout sealer after full cure to prevent staining
Professional Tips
- Use white thinset to maintain tile brightness and prevent color show-through
- Unsanded grout is essential for narrow grout lines and to prevent shell scratching
- Work in small sections (2-3 sheets at a time) to prevent thinset from drying
- Keep tiles clean during installation - thinset residue is difficult to remove after curing
Care & Maintenance
Daily Cleaning
- Routine Care: Wipe with warm water and soft cloth or sponge
- Mild Detergent: Use pH-neutral, non-acidic cleaners for deeper cleaning
- Immediate Spills: Clean spills promptly to prevent potential staining
What to Avoid
- ❌ Acidic Cleaners: Vinegar, lemon juice, and acid-based products damage shell surface
- ❌ Abrasive Materials: Scouring pads, steel wool, and abrasive powders scratch tiles
- ❌ Alkaline Cleaners: Strong alkaline solutions can dull the polished finish
- ❌ Harsh Chemicals: Bleach and ammonia-based cleaners may discolor shells
Long-Term Maintenance
- Grout Sealing: Reseal grout lines every 6-12 months to maintain stain resistance
- Surface Protection: Although Mother of Pearl doesn’t require sealing, grout should be sealed
- Regular Inspection: Check grout lines periodically for wear or discoloration
- Professional Cleaning: Consider professional stone cleaning for heavily soiled areas
Stain Prevention
- Seal grout immediately after installation
- Wipe up oil, makeup, and colored liquids promptly
- Use bath mats in high-splash areas to minimize water exposure
- Ensure adequate ventilation to prevent moisture buildup
Design Inspiration & Trends
Popular Design Styles
1. Coastal Elegance
Create beach-inspired bathrooms with white Mother of Pearl penny tiles paired with natural wood vanities and soft blue accents. The iridescent shimmer evokes ocean waves and seafoam.
2. Modern Luxury
Black Mother of Pearl tiles add dramatic sophistication to contemporary kitchens and powder rooms. Pair with matte black fixtures and marble countertops for high-contrast elegance.
3. Organic Minimalism
Beige penny tiles in natural tones complement earthy, spa-like spaces. Combine with stone sinks, live plants, and natural fiber textiles for tranquil ambiance.
4. Vintage Charm
White penny rounds reference classic 1920s bathroom design. Install floor-to-ceiling for authentic period style or use as wainscoting with subway tile above.
5. Art Deco Glamour
Mix Mother of Pearl with metallic accents, geometric patterns, and luxury finishes for opulent, Jazz Age-inspired interiors.
2025 Design Trends
- Full Wall Applications: Floor-to-ceiling penny tile installations create immersive experiences
- Mixed Materials: Combining Mother of Pearl with marble, porcelain, or glass for textural contrast
- Vertical Orientation: Installing tiles in vertical stripes for modern, elongating effects
- Bold Grout Colors: Contrasting grout (charcoal with white tiles) highlights geometric patterns
- Niche Highlights: Feature penny tiles in shower niches and alcoves as jewel-box accents
Comparison Guide: Mother of Pearl vs. Other Materials
| Feature |
Mother of Pearl |
Ceramic Penny |
Glass Penny |
Marble Penny |
| Natural Iridescence |
✓ Excellent |
✗ None |
~ Limited |
✗ None |
| Slip Resistance |
✓ Good |
✓ Good |
~ Moderate |
✓ Excellent |
| Durability |
✓ High |
✓ Very High |
~ Moderate |
✓ High |
| Maintenance |
~ Moderate |
✓ Low |
✓ Low |
~ Moderate |
| Light Reflection |
✓ Excellent |
~ Limited |
✓ Good |
~ Moderate |
| Eco-Friendly |
✓ 100% Natural |
~ Variable |
~ Recycled Options |
✓ Natural Stone |
| Price Point |
$$ Premium |
$ Budget-Friendly |
$$ Moderate |
$$$ Luxury |
| Unique Character |
✓ Every Tile Different |
✗ Uniform |
~ Some Variation |
✓ Natural Veining |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Do Mother of Pearl tiles need to be sealed?
A: Mother of Pearl tiles themselves do not require sealing due to low porosity, but grout lines should be sealed after installation to prevent staining and moisture penetration.
Q: Can I use Mother of Pearl penny tiles on shower floors?
A: Not recommended. While they work beautifully on shower walls, prolonged submersion in water on floors will cause the tiles to darken over time. Use them on walls for best results.
Q: How do I clean Mother of Pearl jewelry-style tiles?
A: Use only mild soap and warm water with a soft cloth. Avoid acidic cleaners, abrasive scrubbers, and harsh chemicals that can damage the delicate shell surface and dull the polished finish.
Q: What’s the difference between freshwater mussel and deep-sea shells?
A: Freshwater mussel shells typically offer softer, more subtle pearlescent tones with lighter coloring. Deep-sea shells provide richer iridescence, darker tones, and more dramatic color variation.
Q: Are the grout lines difficult to maintain?
A: Penny tiles do create more grout lines than larger format tiles. Using high-quality unsanded grout and sealing properly minimizes maintenance. Regular cleaning prevents buildup.
Q: Can Mother of Pearl tiles be used in commercial spaces?
A: Yes, they’re approved for commercial wall applications including restaurant bathrooms, hotel lobbies, and retail spaces. They’re not recommended for commercial floor use.
Q: Will the iridescence fade over time?
A: No. The natural iridescence is an inherent property of the shell nacre structure and will not fade. Proper maintenance preserves the polished finish that enhances light reflection.
Q: How much material should I order?
A: We recommend ordering 10-15% extra to account for cuts, breakage, and future repairs. Natural material may have slight color variation between production lots.
Q: Can these tiles be installed over existing tile?
A: Yes, provided the existing tile is well-adhered, level, and properly prepared. Surface must be roughened (scarified) and cleaned thoroughly for proper thinset adhesion.
Ordering Information
Packaging Details
- Sample Size: 4" x 5" sample pieces available
- Sheet Size: 12" x 12" (approximately 1 sq ft coverage per sheet)
- Box Quantity: 20 sheets per carton
- Box Coverage: Approximately 18-20 sq ft per carton
- Shipping: Free ground shipping available (Lower 48 US)
How to Calculate Your Needs
- Measure Area: Calculate total square footage (length × width)
- Add Waste Factor: Multiply by 1.10 (adds 10% for cuts and waste)
- Round Up: Always round up to the nearest full sheet or box
- Order Extra: Consider ordering 1-2 additional sheets for future repairs
Example Calculation:
- Kitchen backsplash: 5 ft × 2 ft = 10 sq ft
- With 10% waste: 10 × 1.10 = 11 sq ft
- Order: 12 sheets (round up for full box discount)
Why Choose Our Mother of Pearl Penny Tiles
✓ Premium Quality: Carefully selected shells ensure consistent thickness and superior finish
✓ Natural Beauty: 100% authentic Mother of Pearl with unique iridescence in every tile
✓ Sustainable Choice: Eco-friendly natural material with minimal environmental impact
✓ Proven Durability: Time-tested material used in luxury interiors for decades
✓ Design Versatility: Complements any style from coastal to contemporary
✓ Professional Support: Expert installation guidance and customer service
✓ Competitive Pricing: Luxury quality at accessible price points
✓ Fast Shipping: Quick delivery to keep your project on schedule
