Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about ordering, installing, and caring for natural stone mosaics.
01
Product & Material
Natural stone mosaics are crafted from genuine quarried materials such as marble, limestone, dolomite, and other decorative stones. Each piece is cut into smaller formats and assembled into mesh-mounted sheets that create intricate mosaic patterns. Because the material is natural, variations in color, veining, and surface texture are expected and contribute to the beauty of the installation.
Yes. Natural stone mosaics will display variation in tone, veining, and movement because they are cut from natural stone blocks. These variations are part of the material’s character and are considered a desirable feature in luxury stone installations.
A dye lot refers to a specific production batch of tile or stone that was manufactured or processed at the same time. Because natural materials and finishing processes can vary slightly from batch to batch, tiles from different dye lots may show subtle differences in color or tone. For the most consistent appearance, it is recommended to purchase all required material from the same dye lot whenever possible.
Natural stone mosaics are commonly used for backsplashes, bathroom walls, shower floors, niches, shower walls, feature walls, floors, and decorative accents throughout residential and commercial interiors. When properly installed and sealed, they perform well in wet areas such as showers.
Many natural stone mosaics are suitable for exterior walls and floors in mild climates. However, natural stone is porous and can be damaged by freeze-thaw cycles, so outdoor use in climates with freezing temperatures is not recommended unless the specific product is rated for that application. Each product page includes an applications table specifying whether outdoor use is appropriate. When in doubt, contact us before ordering.
Most natural stone mosaics are not recommended for fully submerged or pool applications. Prolonged submersion can cause certain stones to absorb water, shift in color, or deteriorate over time. If you are considering a pool or water feature application, please contact us to discuss material suitability before placing an order.
Honed stone mosaics have a smooth matte finish that creates a soft, understated appearance. Polished mosaics have a reflective surface that enhances the depth, color, and veining of the stone. Both finishes are popular in luxury mosaic tile installations depending on the design aesthetic.
The Mosaic Shop is the natural stone mosaic collection of Ruben Sorhegui Tile, located in Naples, Florida. Our full mosaic collection is available to view at the Ruben Sorhegui Tile showroom, where a dedicated Mosaic Shop display showcases our natural stone designs. You are welcome to visit in person or order samples through our website to evaluate the material in your own space and lighting conditions.
Ruben Sorhegui Tile
3876 Mercantile Avenue, Naples, FL 34104
02
Installation & Setting Materials
Natural stone mosaics should be installed by a qualified tile professional using a premium white thinset mortar over a properly prepared surface. Mosaic sheets are carefully aligned to maintain consistent spacing and pattern, then grouted once the mortar has cured. A dry layout is strongly recommended to ensure an evenly balanced appearance of natural veining. After grouting, a penetrating sealer should be applied to protect the stone and grout joints.
All installations should follow the guidelines established by the Tile Council of North America (TCNA).
For natural stone mosaics, an unsanded grout is generally recommended for joints under 1/8 inch, and sanded grout for wider joints. Color selection matters — for lighter stones, a white or light-toned grout is typically preferred to avoid color contrast that can make the joints appear prominent over time. A high-quality polymer-modified grout will provide the most durable and consistent results. Your installer should confirm the most appropriate grout type and color based on your specific product and application. Sealing the grout joints after installation is recommended to protect against moisture and staining.
Yes. Natural stone mosaics are widely used in shower walls, shower floors, and decorative niches. Proper waterproofing, installation methods, and sealing are essential to ensure long-term performance in wet environments. Mosaics containing Mother of Pearl or Rivershell should not be used for shower floors or in fully submerged wet areas.
The Mosaic Shop does not provide installation services. We recommend working with a qualified tile professional in your area who has experience installing natural stone mosaics. Searching for local tile installers through Google and asking your contractor or designer for recommendations is often the best way to find a skilled professional near you.
03
Care, Cleaning & Sealing
Yes. Because natural stone is porous, a penetrating sealer should be applied after grout has fully cured. Sealing helps protect the stone surface and grout joints from moisture and staining.
Both. A penetrating sealer should be applied to the stone surface before grouting to prevent grout from staining the face of the tile during installation. Once the grout has fully cured, a final coat of sealer should be applied to protect both the stone and the grout joints. Many customers choose STAIN-PROOF® penetrating sealer, available through our shop.
Natural stone mosaics should be cleaned with a pH-neutral cleaner designed specifically for stone surfaces. Harsh or acidic cleaners can damage marble and other natural stones and should be avoided. Many customers choose the FILA Natural Stone Neutral Cleaner.
Only stone-safe, pH-neutral cleaners should be used on marble and natural stone mosaics. The Mosaic Shop offers FILA Natural Stone Neutral Cleaner, a professional-grade natural stone cleaner formulated to safely maintain stone surfaces.
Most natural stone installations should be resealed every one to three years depending on the environment and level of use. Areas exposed to frequent moisture may require more frequent sealing.
04
Ordering & Product Availability
Yes. Ordering samples allows you to evaluate the stone’s color, finish, and pattern before committing to a full installation. Viewing samples in your project’s lighting conditions helps ensure the material aligns with your design vision.
It is recommended to order at least 10–15% additional material to account for cuts, layout adjustments, and potential breakage during installation.
Custom mosaic designs may be available depending on the material and pattern requirements. Designers and architects working on specialized projects are encouraged to contact The Mosaic Shop at sales@themosaicshop.com to discuss custom mosaic possibilities.
Orders can be modified if they have not yet been processed for shipment. Please contact The Mosaic Shop at orders@themosaicshop.com as soon as possible to make changes on an order.
We recommend ordering all required material at one time. Natural stone is cut in production lots, and material ordered at a later date may come from a different lot with slight variations in tone, veining, or surface character. Additionally, prices are subject to change and reorders will reflect current pricing at the time of the new order. Certain products may also become unavailable between orders.
Once an order has been confirmed and processed, materials are prepared for shipment promptly and cannot be placed on hold for future delivery. If your project timeline requires a delayed shipment, we recommend contacting us before placing your order so we can discuss options and current availability.
Absolutely. Our team is happy to assist with product selection, quantity estimates, and general guidance. Reach us at info@themosaicshop.com or through the contact form on our website. For trade inquiries, contact sales@themosaicshop.com.
05
Shipping & Delivery
Mosaic tile orders are carefully packaged by The Mosaic Shop and shipped via freight carriers to ensure safe delivery. Materials are secured to minimize movement and protect the stone during transit.
Orders are typically shipped 48–72 hours after they are placed. Once the order has shipped, you will receive a shipping confirmation email along with tracking details available through the carrier.
Yes. Local pickup is available for customers who prefer to collect their order directly. Pickup appointments can be scheduled once your order is confirmed and ready. You will be notified when your order is prepared along with scheduling instructions. All materials must be inspected at the time of pickup.
The Mosaic Shop Warehouse
3876 Mercantile Avenue, Naples, FL 34104
At this time, The Mosaic Shop ships within the United States. If you are located outside the US and are interested in placing an order, please contact us at info@themosaicshop.com to discuss options.
All shipments must be inspected upon delivery. Any visible damage should be documented on the carrier’s delivery receipt before signing and photographed for documentation. For complete delivery inspection guidelines, review our Shipping & Inspection page.
Any damage or discrepancies must be reported to The Mosaic Shop in writing within 48 hours of delivery and accompanied by photographs so that a freight claim can be submitted with the carrier.
Signing the delivery receipt without noting damage confirms that the shipment was received in acceptable condition. If damage is discovered after signing, The Mosaic Shop may be unable to assist with a freight claim. It is essential to inspect all boxes before signing and note any visible damage directly on the carrier’s delivery receipt at the time of delivery.
06
Returns & Cancellations
All approved returns are subject to a 25% restocking fee. This fee is deducted from the refund amount after the returned material has been received and inspected. Original shipping charges are non-refundable.
The following items cannot be returned under any circumstances: samples, special order items, custom orders, clearance items, and products marked Final Sale. Additionally, any material that has been installed, cut, broken, chipped, or otherwise altered is not eligible for return.
Email orders@themosaicshop.com with your order number, the quantity being returned, and your reason for the return. Our team will review your request and confirm whether it meets return eligibility requirements. If approved, a Return Authorization and return instructions will be issued. Do not ship material back without an approved Return Authorization — unauthorized returns will not be accepted. For the complete return policy and eligibility requirements, visit our Return & Cancellation page.
Once returned material arrives at our warehouse and is inspected for condition and eligibility, refunds are processed within 7 business days. The refund will reflect the approved material amount minus the 25% restocking fee. Original shipping charges are non-refundable.
Stock orders may be cancelled or modified prior to shipment. Contact orders@themosaicshop.com as soon as possible if you need to make changes. Once an order has left our facility it cannot be cancelled or modified. Special orders cannot be cancelled or modified once placed, as they are produced or sourced specifically for your project.
All returned materials are inspected upon arrival. Items that are damaged, broken, incomplete, or not in original packaging may be denied or subject to a reduced refund at our discretion. Because natural stone is fragile, we strongly recommend using a tracked and insured shipping method and repackaging the material carefully before sending it back.
07
Trade Program
Yes. The Mosaic Shop offers a trade program for qualified interior designers, architects, builders, and industry professionals. Members receive access to exclusive benefits and specialized support for mosaic tile projects.
Professionals can apply through the Trade Program application on The Mosaic Shop website by submitting their business information for verification. Apply directly through our Trade Application page.
Trade partners receive access to exclusive pricing, priority product support, and personalized assistance with mosaic selection for their projects. Members of our Trade Program also gain early access to new mosaic collections and curated design resources to help streamline the specification process. The program is designed to support interior designers, architects, and builders working on high-end residential and commercial projects.
Trade pricing applies to products in our active collection available to approved trade accounts. Certain clearance items, final sale products, or limited availability materials may not be eligible for trade pricing. Contact us at sales@themosaicshop.com for details on specific products.
Trade account applications are typically reviewed within 2–3 business days. You will receive an email confirmation once your account has been approved along with instructions for accessing trade pricing.
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Natural stone mosaics for kitchens, bathrooms, and every space that deserves something permanent. Shop all products and order samples to see the magic in your space.