From glass that incorporates metallic interlayers to ceramic tile with precious metal glaze, new fabrication technology is letting designers take a shine to hard surfaces:

Absolute by Ceracasa: The process used to make Absolute tiles is similar to that of tiles used for space shuttles-precious metals are fused to the surface of ceramic tiles, giving them a shimmering metallic finish. www.ceracasa.com

Velvet by Keraben: Unveiled earlier this year at Spain’s international tile exhibition, Cevisama, Keraben’s Velvet collection features light-colored bases with a luminous sheen and modern, metallic graphics. www.keraben.com

Tessella by Joel Berman Glass: Inspired by the work of M.C. Escher and geometry found in nature, Tessella is a three-dimensional glass pattern that reflects light. Tiled shapes are suitable for commercial and retail environments; colors and sizes are customizable. www.jbermanglass.com

Metallic by Carvart: Architectural Glass fabricator Carvart recently released its new Metallic collection of laminated glass products that encapsulate an interlayer of metallic mesh. Permanently fused between glass layers, the mesh offers an aesthetic and functional solution for a variety of applications, including interior and exterior walls and partitions. www.carvart.com

Ubiquity by Alloy: Designed by Karim Rashid, the Ubiquity series includes tiles punched from a solid sheet of stainless steel. As a result, tiles have a unique weight and tactile quality. The collection includes surfaces with brushed, mirrored, and 2B finishes, suitable for exterior use in wet environments as well as indoors. www.alloydesign.com.au