That feels like more variation than I'm looking for. And a bit too earthy.

Here are some inspiration images I've saved over time, if that helps define my style at all. Definitely an affinity towards aqua.

Have you looked at or considered mother of pearl, it gives you subtle color and a little sparkle to liven up the space but it doesn't scream. I think the colors in it would be beautiful with the colors you have.

http://www.dehtile.com/product/mother-of-pearl-mosaic-tiles-subway-shell-pearl-tile-backsplash-bathroom-p76.html

Someone here has beautiful mother of pearl kitchen backsplash who is it? Pictures are beautiful.

It was pipdog I was thinking about, this old thread from here had some examples including hers.

http://ths.gardenweb.com/discussions/2700473/mother-of-pearl-backsplash?n=28

Tile is a material that, while not permanent, is likely to be there for a while. You should decide whether you want aqua in your bs or whether you want it in painted accents and decor, as in several of your inspiration images.

Off to check out mother of pearl. I like aqua a lot. It's been the wall color for 5 years now, so I think I'd be fine with it in the backsplash.

Yes, we all remember pip dog's backsplash!

Since Encore tiles are out of my price range, this is on my list of companies to get samples from once I pick my stone slab. If you like crackle tile, I think you get the most variation; however, other ceramic tile finishes have slighter variation to them. Blue Frost crackle is one I am very interested in seeing since I favor bluish grey tones, but there are some others that would "play" well with turquoise. If you check the website, there is a number to talk to a sales rep who could make recs.

http://www.completetile.com/products/ceramic/vermeere_ceramics/ceramic_tile

Last year's new kitchen innovation exhibition in Cologne had hardly any kitchens with tile backsplash.

Even a Plain English kitchen had glass backsplash the same color as the wall color

Nosoccermom - I'd be perfectly happy with no backsplash, except my husband is ridiculously messy when at the sink. That area in particular needs some sort of protection.

Honestly based on your rug and your comments about your living room, I would look into doing a cement tile backsplash. Price is around where you want to be and you can pick a more colorful or more subtle pattern. I believe Oldbat has a cement tile backsplash and it's stunning.

If you like mother of pearl, you should check out this tile:

http://lunadabaytile.com/LBT_agate.html

I used it in my last kitchen. It is recycled glass. Everyone who saw it thought it was either marble or mother of pearl!

I don't have a better overall picture... sorry

Thanks! I'm so torn now between doing something very graphic (like the cement tiles cpartist mentioned), or doing something more subtle but still lots of variety, like several have brought up. Or reverting back to straight aqua. Ugh, too many choices!!