Jewel Stones

by dolce glass tile

Product Installation Information

PLEASE READ ENTIRE INSTRUCTIONS BEFORE BEGINNING

Jewel Stones are tiny glass mosaic elements which have a color-baked paint backing and the edges have been 'softened' in a kiln. The Jewels have been mounted to a mesh backing using a water based vegetable glue. Therefore, do not place them on a wet surface or allow water to be in contact with them as they will quickly come loose from their backing. The segments are approximately 3"x11 3/4". Many of the glass jewels have bevels, so it is important to press the grout firmly in order to allow it to flow into the small crevasses.

To begin, if necessary, find material the proper thickness to bring the Jewel Stones level with the surrounding field tile and cut the exact width for the accent area (including the width of the liners, if they are being used). This material should be dense and not very water absorbent.

Cut the backer material into segments to accommodate three lengths of the jewel stones (approximately 35 1/4"). If using liners on either side of the Jewel Stones, accommodate for that width, also. You will be mounting these strips end-to-end after the jewel stones have been adhered to them. Do not mount the strips to the wall/surface until the jewel stones have first been adhered to the backer board on a flat horizontal surface, if you are building up the surface to match the field tile depth. It will be much easier this way.

Using a clear or white silicone in a caulking gun, squeeze approximately a 1 ft. "s" line down the board. On a flat surface, using a rigid piece of plastic, spread the silicone evenly over the entire segment of the board, being sure to do so evenly. Do not build the silicone up past 1/16", or half the height of the jewels, as there must be room for grout to flow between the pieces. Carefully place the jewel stones and liners in position on the board, and press gently for good adhesion. Keep a damp cloth available to keep your fingers/hands clean of silicone, as it is very difficult to clean it off the glass jewel stones.

Adhere the backer board with Jewel Stones (and liners if used) to the wall/counter top/floor with a good adhesive....silicone may again be used....cover board entirely and evenly.

Use a sanded grout. Use pressure on the grout float so the grout is able to flow into the crevasses and bevels of the Jewel Stones. Clean the same as any tiled surface.