Oriental Rug Facts

Myths About Oriental Rugs

Myth #1: Oriental rugs are identified only by design – design is only one component used to identify oriental rugs. A technical analysis of the rug’s materials, construction, dyes, and design is the method used to identify rugs.

Myth #2: All oriental rugs appreciate in value – most post-WWII rugs do not appreciate in value, nor will most rugs purchased new today appreciate in value. Consumers most likely paid more for some rugs in the 50s, 60s, and 70s than they are worth today.

Myth #3: All old rugs are worth a lot – condition is important when determining value. An old rug in poor condition is just an old rug. An old rug in good condition may also be without value if it lacks artistic merit. However, some old rugs are worth repairing and its value will increase with proper restoration.

Myth #4: Persian (Iranian) rugs are better than rugs from other countries – Some older, traditional pre-WWII Persian (Iranian) rugs such as Ferahan Sarouk, Motashem Kaskan, Tabriz, Bijar, Heriz, certain tribal pieces and other well-constructed semi-antiques will always have a market in the right condition. Since the fall of the Shah in 1979 and the embargo on Persian goods in 1987 (which was lifted in March 1999), other countries have improved and increased their output of rugs. The quality of Persian rugs has gradually deteriorated since the early 1970s. There are certain notable exceptions, such as rugs produced and exported by Miri & Jalili in South Persia (show room in the San Francisco Design Center). Time will tell if the overall quality will return. If it does, it will be smaller quantities and at higher prices. It will be a big job, as they have a lot of catching up to do.

Myth #5: Never clean or vacuum Oriental rugs – About 80 percent of soil in rugs is dry particulate matter. It acts as sandpaper and wears the rug. Some rugs have a thick pile, if they are not regularly vacuumed and cleaned, the soil will become so embedded it becomes difficult to finally remove all of it. You should caution your customers to vacuum parallel to the rug end so as to not damage the fringe.

Myth #6: Knot count is the best indication of value – The value of only a few traditional Persian rugs is partially determined by knot count. Examples are Nain and Isfahan. The value of silk rugs is also partially based on knot count. New, mass-produced rugs from China, India, and Pakistan come in a variety of qualities and designs. Generally speaking, the more knots per square inch, the higher the price per square foot. However, once these mass-produced rugs are used, their value in the secondary market is not based on knot count.

5 Ways to Care for Your Oriental Rug

1. For day to day cleaning, your vacuum will do an excellent job of removing surface soil. It is advisable to use you vacuum attachments to reach under furniture for protection against moths, a potential threat to the lifespan of your Oriental rug.

2. If you should spill a liquid, use white paper towels to soak up excess moisture; then wet, rinse, and blot again, raising the wet area until dry. For food spills, try to remove as carefully as possible with a dull knife, then follow the same step for liquids.

3. If you should have to store your carpet for any length of time, take care to pack your Oriental wit moth repellents, and wrap in strong paper.

4. When arranging your furniture, it’s wise to have some sort of protection under the legs to prevent the carpet fibers from being crushed.

5. Lastly, most Orientals benefit from a professional washing, but send them only to an expert who understands the care and extra attention they require.