Final answer:
Specially shaped ceramic tiles are used mainly to create decorative patterns, particularly in the form of mosaics, which are celebrated for their durability and artistic value.
Step-by-step explanation:
The purpose of specially shaped ceramic tiles is primarily to create a decorative pattern. Decoration of ceramics can include various techniques such as incising lines into the surface or creating textures, but mosaics stand out as a particularly intricate decorative form. Mosaics involve crafting images with small pieces of colored tile, stone, or glass, and they are valued for their durability and aesthetic appeal. These mosaics are utilized on walls, ceilings, and flooring, with artists gluing the pieces onto a surface and then sealing them with grout, resulting in a durable and decorative finish that can last for centuries.