What is Traditional Tile? Buying Guide and Price Inquiry

What is Traditional Tile?

Traditional tiles are among the most beautiful and luxurious building materials, with a history dating back centuries. They have been used in both exterior and interior facades of many buildings. In this article, we will thoroughly introduce you to traditional tiles and explain all their features. At the end, we will also provide the prices of traditional tiles and a buying guide.

History of Iranian Traditional Tiles

Traditional tiles are one of the oldest and most authentic materials in Iran, dating back to the 4th century AH during the Seljuk era. At that time, traditional tiles were produced using a mosaic technique, which we will discuss in detail later.

Types of Handmade Traditional Tiles

• Inlay Tiles

Inlay tiles are among the oldest Iranian materials, widely used in the past, and can be seen in famous places such as the Imam Reza Shrine, Sheikh Lotfollah Mosque, Golestan Palace, and more. Benefits of inlay tiles include high resistance to weather conditions, impacts, and water.

• Seven-Color Tile

During the Safavid period, when many Islamic buildings like mosques and shrines were constructed and decorated with tiles, artisans and tile makers from Isfahan developed a more cost-effective method compared to traditional mosaic techniques previously used in Greater Khorasan. The seven-color tile quickly replaced inlay tiles and was used to beautify both Islamic and non-Islamic buildings.

“According toThe Traditional Tile page on ArchiLearn website: The seven-color traditional tile and inlay tile share many similarities in pattern, body, and glaze, but their main difference is that the traditional seven-color tile is made by placing tile pieces side by side and drawing lines and motifs with glaze before firing. In contrast, inlay tiles are first fired, then cut into colorful pieces, and assembled like a puzzle.

How Traditional Tiles Are Made

One of the most interesting topics for users is how traditional tiles are produced. We will explain the manufacturing process for both mosaic and seven-color tiles.

• Inlay

In this method, small pieces of colored tiles are assembled to form the desired pattern. For example, imagine a design made of 50 small triangles arranged in order with different colors. To produce this with the inlay method, each triangle must be cut separately and placed together.

• Seven-Color

In the seven-color method, production is much simpler. Artists lay out white 20×20 tiles side by side according to the size of the design. Then, using a needle, they sketch the final pattern onto wax paper, place the paper over the tiles, and then transfer the design onto the tile surface using charcoal spots. Afterward, they paint and color the pattern with brushes and fire the tiles in a kiln.

Uses of Traditional Tiles in Different Spaces

In the past, traditional tiles were mainly used in palaces, Islamic buildings, and similar sites. Today, they can be used in various types of buildings, creating stunning and beautiful results.

Traditional Greeting Room Tiles

The living room is one of the most important parts of a house, and its beauty greatly influences the overall look of the home. It is also one of the best places to use traditional patterned tiles. You can freely install these tiles on walls and floors. The beautiful patterns and colors of traditional tiles will make your living room a lively and vibrant space.

Traditional Kitchen Tiles

The kitchen is another suitable space for using traditional tiles. Besides their beauty, these tiles have other features that make them very practical for kitchen use. For instance, the body of traditional tiles is highly resistant to water and moisture, so accidental water contact won’t damage them.

Price of Traditional Tiles in 2025

Where to Buy Traditional Tiles? Buying Guide

When purchasing traditional tiles, pay close attention to factors like body material, size, and more. It is best to buy directly from manufacturers to avoid middlemen and extra costs. To find the largest Iranian manufacturers, you can search for ‘Traditional Tile Manufacturer’ on Google.