Many people think that identifying Persian rugs is as simple as just looking at them. But this is not always true. There are many differentiating factors when it comes to understanding if a rug is authentic or not, and these differences often go unnoticed by the untrained eye.
The rug industry can be confusing to the average consumer, it’s riddled with opaque pricing, unclear quality standards, and very savvy salespeople. Because there are so many types and styles of rugs, it can be difficult to identify an authentic Persian rug against a sea of machine-made products. Read our tips below to learn how to identify authentic Persian rugs and become a more confident shopper.
Find Out Where The Rug is Made
Rugs made in the Middle Eastern region, particularly Iran, are categorized as true Persian Rugs. These rugs are made by hand, while machine-made rugs do not have their origins in these regions and are only made through local materials.
Apart from the more apparent machine-made Persian rugs are produced hand-knotted in Isfahan, Iran, as well as other countries in the Orient. Despite these appealing and exquisite characteristics of hand-knotted Persian rugs, it helps to understand that if a rug is not made in Iran, then it cannot be called a Persian rug.
Origin of the Rugs
Persian rugs originate from Iran (historically known as Persia), a country with a rich tradition of weaving dating back over 2,500 years. Each region in Iran has its own distinct style, influenced by local culture, geography, and history. For example:
- Tabriz Rugs: Known for intricate floral patterns and medallion designs.
- Isfahan Rugs: Feature symmetrical patterns with central medallions and vivid colors.
- Kashan Rugs: Often include elaborate designs with high knot density.
- Qashqai Rugs: Woven by nomadic tribes, showcasing geometric patterns and vibrant colors.
Check if Hand-tufted or Hand-knotted
Genuine hand-knotted rugs are created by skilled weavers who spend hours laboriously and beautifully tying every single knot by hand.
Hand-tufted rugs on the other hand are made using a tufting gun to punch a design into a canvas backing that’s stretched behind a stencil. These rugs look superficially good, but they have multiple drawbacks.
To determine whether a rug is hand-knotted or hand-tufted, turn it over and examine the underside. In a real Persian rug, you should be able to see every knot.
Real Persian rugs are a worthy investment, and knowing how to tell the genuine pieces from the fake will ensure that the piece you’re acquiring is worth it.
Real Persian Rugs Always Have a Soft Backing
Looking at a rug’s underside can reveal much about its authenticity. Always make sure the rug doesn’t have hard plastic since they are hand-knotted, which means they always come with a soft back.
For example, the imperfections of the knots can show whether it’s hand-knotted or machine-made.
Real Persian rugs are hand-knotted, with the underside pattern matching the top. They lack extra backing, resulting in a soft underside.
Machine-made rugs typically use synthetic materials for the surface and have a glued plastic backing. This can make them less attractive and may release toxins, potentially causing allergic reactions.
Check for Symbols and Motifs
Persian rugs are rich with symbolic meaning, with patterns that tell stories or represent cultural beliefs. Common motifs include:
- Medallions: central designs symbolizing unity and balance.
- Boteh (Paisley): A flame-like motif representing life and eternity.
- Flowers and vines: signify paradise and nature.
- Geometric Shapes: Found in tribal rugs, reflecting the weaver’s environment and heritage.
Test The Color
Authentic Persian rugs use only colorfast dyes. This means the colors remain true and do not bleed into one another. An expert said that you can test the colorfastness of any dye by simply placing a damp rag on a discreet area of the rug and leaving it overnight.
If you lift it in the morning and see no transfer of color, it is probably vegetable and/or colorfast dye, meaning it is also probably Persian.
Identity the Knots (Even in the Back Too)
Closely examine these details so identifying Persian rugs can become easy.
- Handmade Persian rugs are crafted with countless tiny knots.
- Flip the rug and inspect the back; you should see individual knots in a pattern.
Inspect the Fringes
Look for fringes attached directly to the rug (a sign of handmade rugs).
Machine-made rugs often have fringes sewn on separately—this will be obvious when you see threads that don’t follow a consistent pattern.
Look for variations in knots and threads
In handmade rugs, knot sizes and thread thickness may vary slightly, adding to their unique charm. Machine-made rugs typically have uniform knots and threads.
By closely examining these details, you can easily differentiate between a genuine Persian rug and a machine-made one.
Check The Fiber/Material Used
Authentic Persian rugs are made up of natural fibers. These include materials such as wool, cotton, and silk (most notably). It’s for this reason that these rugs are durable but, at the same time, very soft and shiny, since silk is an expensive material, and so their selling cost is also high. Rugs made from these materials have amazing benefits and give off a flashy look.
Other Details and Specs to Keep In Mind
If you are eyeing a certain Persian rug but are not really sure it is authentic or genuine, you can ask about all the details mentioned above to the salesperson.
Ask them about the weight, type, design name, and even the knot density. Don’t miss out on asking about the material. You can also flip the rug, check for the label/tag, and read all the details written on it.
Final Thoughts
Identifying Persian rugs doesn’t require a special skill when you can inspect it all on your own, and if you do happen to find all of the points checked, then it is definitely a “steal” for you.
Take all the time to inspect a rug and check for the back, symbols, motifs, and labels, and don’t forget to double-check the material so you can get your hands on the best and most authentic Persian rug.
