Difference in Persian & Oriental Rugs

Persian Rug Facts

• Rug weaving originated more than 2,500 years ago in Persia, now known as Iran. Hand-knotted Persian rugs were named after the cities in which they were hand-crafted. Heriz, Gabbeh, Dubba, Hamadan and Tabriz are names of Persian rugs designated by the cities of their origin. Iran produces more rugs than any other country, and many consider Persian rugs to be the finest made.

Oriental Rug Facts

• Authentic Oriental rugs are hand-knotted through a cotton or linen backing. Machine-made rugs do not have knots. The fibers are put into place by a machine and attached to a latex backing. Each authentically woven Oriental rug is exclusive and no two are identical. Each geographic area or nomadic tribe features its identifying weaving techniques, types of dye and colors, and designs and patterns.

Value of Oriental and Persian Rugs

• Hand-made, authentic Oriental and Persian rugs are crafted to last several generations and are handed down as family heirlooms. This is due to the high quality of these authentic rugs. Commonly woven of wool, a superior fiber to synthetics, they're naturally flame retardant and resistant to dirt and crushing. The value of an Oriental or Persian rug often increases as it ages. The overall condition of a rug is rated as excellent, good, repaired, stained or low-pile. This is critical in assessing its value.

Cleaning Oriental and Persian Rugs

• According to ritarugs.com, a properly cared-for, fine Oriental rug can last up to 200 years. Two adversaries of Oriental and Persian rugs are sunlight and moths. Sunlight will fade a rug and moths will eat holes in it. Rugs can be vacuumed or swept to remove dirt. Do not shake or beat an Oriental or Persian rug. You can wash an Oriental or Persian rug with the proper cleaning agents and procedures.