How to Tell Oriental & Persian Throw Rugs Apart

If you have an authentic Oriental or Persian throw rug, you have a fine home accessory and investment that was hand woven and hand knotted. While many people use the terms Persian rug and Oriental rug interchangeably, there is a difference between these rugs, which experts and rug enthusiasts are all too aware of. However, if you familiarize yourself with certain defining characteristics and facts, you'll be able to tell the difference between the two types of rugs so you can make informed purchases.

Instructions

- 1
  Inquire about where the rug-makers crafted the rug or where the rug originates from. For example, if the rug is from any part of Asia, including Iran, China, India, Russia, Turkey, Pakistan, Tibet and Nepal, it is Oriental. If the rug is from Iran, the Caucasus, Georgia or Afghanistan, it's considered a Persian rug. If the rug bears a name after a specific city, such as Gabbeh, it's a Persian rug.
- 2
  Examine the colors. If the colors are extremely bright, rich and brilliant, it's most likely a Persian rug, as that is a common trait of such carpets.
- 3
  Ask the salesperson or vendor how many knots per square inch. An Oriental rug will have less than 160 knots per square inch and a Persian rug will have 160 or more, giving it a distinctive thickness.
- 4
  Look at the patterns of the rugs. Persian rugs generally have delicate floral patterns with depictions of leaves and buds. Oriental rugs might have field designs such as a central medallion by itself or interconnected patterns coming outward from it. Alternatively, the design might have several compartments or display a scene.

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