Mosaic Tile is a general term. Glass, Ceramic, and porcelain are the different types of mosaic. The term "mosaic" describes the effect created by mounting small pieces of virtually any material onto another surface to form a picture or design.
Ceramic usually designates glazed Italian tiles. A ceramic tile is composed of two materials. The body is clay, fired in a kiln. Once the clay reaches a brick-like hardness it is designated "bisque." The surface is a silicon material referred to as the "glaze." Color glaze is applied as a liquid to the body, and the entire tile (surface + body) is fired in a kiln at extremely high temperature. Under this extreme heat the crystalline substances in the glaze fuse with the body to create a smooth surface. The resulting product has many glass like characteristics. These tiles can be cut with a glass-cutter for precision cutting.
Glass mosaic is self-descriptive. In a glass mosaic tile the body and the surface are the same material and an infinite number of colors are available. Glass mosaic is vitreous, tending not to absorb moisture. Strict color consistency is not characteristic of these tiles.
Porcelain mosaic is simply a variation of ceramic. Kaolin, a type of clay, is added to make porcelain hard and vitreous. The Japanese have made notable contributions to the mosaic industry in recent years. These tiles are also vitreous, and can be used in showers and swimming pools.
Mastic, also known as mortar, is the cream-like adhesive used to hold tile to a surface. A thin coat is applied to a surface with a notched trowel. Sheets of tile are then pressed into the mastic. Mastic can also be used when applying single tiles to a surface. Mastic can be used for smaller projects, but it most often reserved for larger projects. It is easier to use liquid glue when working on a small project.
Grout is a combination of cement and marble dust. For use, the grout powder should be mixed with small amounts of water to create a thick paste. It may be applied to a surface with the fingers, spatula, or squeejee. The grout paste should be forced into all the spaces between tiles.
Grout-Sealer is a liquid consisting of silicone in suspension. Grout is porous and tends to accept stain. A sealer applied to the grout lines can help prevent against stains on a heavily used surface.
Nippers are used for cutting tile. The best nippers have a carbide or carboloid, hardened steel, cutting tip.
Mosaic Glue is generally used for smaller handicraft projects. Mosaic Glue can also be replaced with squeeze caulk, available at any hardware store. This type of glue is very handy when applying tiles individually.