Mosaics are an ancient art form, yet look utterly at home in today’s artisan, eco home, bringing color, texture and depth indoors or out. More grounded and less ethereal than stained glass, more substantial than paintings or fabric, mosaic pieces have an incomparable presence.

I came across Berkeley, Calif., artist Karen Pearle’s mesmerizing works and was instantly drawn to them. Both ageless and modern, spiritual in concept yet grounded in form and materials, these works are treasures. Pearle’s large pieces are investments, but small pieces and mirrors under $200 have intensity and jewel-like qualities.

Image: Karen Pearle