The pieces of tile and other materials used to make a mosaic are traditionally called Tesserae. It is derived from the Latin word for cube and the Greek word for four.

Today Tesserae is commonly bought from stores that sell mosaic supplies, it is often in the form of small glass or ceramic tiles. However many different materials can be used for mosaics, you don't need to use specifically bought mosaic tiles with a little bit of effort you can recyelc many pre-loved items into Tesserae. 

Materials suitable for mosaics include:

• Glazed Pottery & Clay Tile
• Ceramic Wall & Floor Tiles
• Mirror & Glass
• Marble Tile
• Smalti
• Smashed dishes, cups & plates
• Sea Shells
• Pebbles & Stones
• Old Candles & Wax