Here's what the beveled tile looks like. I love this style. Island, the collection is called Victoria Ivory & shockingly the cabinets are from Cabinets To Go. I know CTG doesn't get much love here. To be honest, I was very nervous about ordering these cabinets just because of the reputation of Chinese cabinets but they really are a nice quality cabinet & finish. We didn't order through CTG but our kitchen contractor uses the products in his business. I've been very surprised & relieved when I've been taking the door sample into the tile showrooms the compliments I've received about the quality of the door. We have been able to customize some of our order by working w/ our kitchen contractor. I will post pics after kitchen is complete. This post was edited by kgolby on Wed, Feb 20, 13 at 15:54

With a granite backsplash, you'll still have a seam so it defeats the purpose stated by that granite guy. Only time I see tile over a 3" granite backsplash is when they are done at different times (change in homeowners or you decide to add tile in the future). Most people getting new counters will just tile from the counter up.

Original Poster Update I've finally made a decision on cashmere carrara quartz countertop (MSI) and Masia Gris Claro tiles. I'm hesitant about the cashmere carrara because the photos I have seen vary so much and the sample is so small... If anyone has some real-life photos of the cashmere carrara countertop, I'd really love to see them. They are coming to do the templates in two days so I'd still have time to change my mind. Thanks!

Well Mitchell, I think your kitchen and home are lovely. Your floors are really cool too! I know the mosaic is bugging you, and it probably would me too, however, it is still very pretty and will probably never be given a second thought by anyone but you and your fiancee. And like a few suggested, once you accessorize, get your hardware in, etc...it's not going to be such a focal point to you like it is now. So, if it turns out not to be such an easy fix, please don't stress about it. Your home is gorgeous! I'm a Texan too, going through a Harvey remodel, so maybe I've just finally learned to not sweat the small stuff with all this house business...as a matter of fact, I've got some "TX hacks" working downstairs in my kitchen right now. ;) Congratulations on your beautiful new home.