As the years progressed, so did the art of mosaics. More color was introduced, and different stones appeared in the designs. In today's design, color variations and palettes are used in mosaics -- from mild earth tones to bright, bold colors. The use of one material has also given way to combinations of materials.

"The two big words when it comes to mosaics now are 'texture' and 'movement,' " said Anna Marie Fanelli, designer at Floor & D?r in Tenafly, NJ. "The combination of using glass with [natural] stone, metal with stone or inexpensive porcelain with stone provides texture. The combinations create a whole different feeling -- there is a passion to the room now."