Persian Wool Rug - What You Need To Know Before Purchase

Persial Oriental Rug Purchases Should Be Budgeted

Before you shop you need to decide what you want to spend. Machine made copies of Persian Oriental rugs can be purchased for as little as a few hundred dollars. The real thing can cost you thousands. But, you can also purchase them used for less money, and still get the amazing quality you are looking for. These rugs, if cared for, can last for fifty years or more!

Learn Something About Persian Rugs Prior To Purchase

When considering a Persian Oriental rug purchase, you will be better able to make sound decisions, if you learn something about the materials they are made of. Tribal rugs are usually woven on a wool, cotton, or silk foundation (called a warp). They are hand knotted. Silk pile is very luxurious to the touch, but doesn't wear as well as wool if placed in high traffic areas. Make sure they are not trying to sell you rayon, or artificial silk, which is often found in Oriental rugs.

Persian Wool Rug Prices Vary

Prices for Persian wool rugs will vary, depending on the size, density of the knotting, whether it is wool or silk, dyes used, and place of origin. Examine the structure of a rug before you purchase it. The higher the knot count, the more it will cost.

The back of the warp should be intact, neat and tight with no tears, and there should be no repairs made to halt unraveling. Look for holes and stains, and make sure the fringe is in good shape. Poor quality wool does not wear well, so feel the wool carefully. It should not feel dry or look dull. The pile should be even throughout.

Persian Wool Rug Comes in Many Patterns and Colors

After you have chosen one, check it for running. If you wipe a cloth over the surface, very firmly, you will see the run if it is not good quality. Don't mistake a faded color for running. Sometimes, the wool is dyed that way to make it appear to be antique. Now that you have found the Persian Oriental rug you've been looking for, here are a few tips for purchasing:

1. Know the reputation of the dealer you are working with. Don't trust businesses that say they are going out of business. They usually aren't...it is a gimmick to get you to buy inferior goods.
2. Unless you are buying your rug off your best friend's floor, don't fall for huge discounts and giveaway offers. Nobody in business is going to give away a quality Persian wool rug!
3. Ask your dealer to include all the details of your rug on his invoice. You want it stated that it is wool, hand woven, hand knotted, etc. He must be willing to stand behind the sale with a good return policy.