Mexico Talavera tile is considered not only traditional but, elegant and beautiful. It is an art form that has been around since the 14th Century and, which is still popular today. To this day the tiles are hand-made and painted giving them a personal touch with no machine will ever be able to duplicate. As a matter of fact, no two tiles are the same - and, that is just a small part of their allure. Due to the manufacturing process which the tiles must undergo, their colors and shine lasts a very long time, even when constantly exposed to the outdoors.

Talavera tile Mexico consists of two types of clay which are mixed together. In the "olden days", the Indians performed the mixing with their feet. Once the mixture is completely dry it is placed in molds and set out to dry. This first drying stage may take anywhere from seven to twelve weeks depending on how much moisture was in the batch of clay. The piece of Mexican Talavera tile is then fired up at 850 degrees Celsius ( 1562 degrees Fahrenheit). It is here that the tile acquires a color commonly referred to as "jaguete", which is simply the typical color of the clay. After the initial glazing is completed, the tiles are then hand-designed and painted with special brushes made of mule hair. The paints used are mineral-based to allow the pottery to be exposed to the environment. The last firing is at 1050 degrees Celsius (1922 degrees Fahrenheit). This last firing is responsible for bringing out the highly coveted "Talavera gloss".

Mexican Talavera tile has multiple uses. Since you may purchase the tiles in either solid colors, with intricate and beautiful designs or in a "composition", which creates a mural, the tiles may be placed on the walls of bathrooms and kitchens.

Due to their resiliency to the weather you may also place them create a mural on one of your patio walls. Another place where you will enjoy your Mexican Talavera tile is by placing them on your patio table - same method as if you were laying them on the floor but, on top of the table with grout and all. This will surely make a conversation piece with your guests!

Yet another manner in which you will be able to show off your Mexican Talavera tile is on stairs. If you have steps, either inside your home or leading to your front door, by placing them either on the risers or the treads, the impact will be breath-taking!

Mexican Talavera tile is not only manufactured to last you a very long time but, also, to be functional; therefore, cleaning is simple. Regardless of whether you have placed your tile inside or outside, water and a little soap on a sponge is all it will take to remove grease and dirt.

Styles and designs abound in Mexican Talavera ceramics. The early tiles were painted in white background with blue detail, in an attempt to copy the Chinese ceramics that were being imported into Mexico from the Orient in the 15th Century.

With the introduction of new colors by the Italians, which found its way into Spain and then carried on to Mexico by the Catholic monks, the designs became more intricate and colorful. Today, you will be able to choose from a great variety of designs and color combinations to suit your particular decorating needs.

Due to its beauty and cost many try to imitate the original Mexican Talavera tile. To ensure the authenticity of each particular piece of tile the Mexican government requires that each artisan sign his finished product and to state the origin of the piece ("Puebla").

Sometimes, it is better to view something than to read about. Mexican Talavera tile is one of those examples...enjoy!