MYTHS ABOUT ORIENTAL RUGS

1. Oriental rugs are identified only by 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.

2. All oriental rugs appreciate in value: Most post-World

War II 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.

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.

4. Persian (Iranian) rugs are better than rugs from other

countries: Some older, traditional Persian rugs (pre-WWII),

such as Ferahan Sarouk, Motashem Kashan, Tabriz,

Bijar,and Heriz tribal pieces, and other noteworthy examples

always have a market in the right conditions. Since the fall

of the Shah in 1979 and the embargo on Persian goods in

1987 (March 1999), other countries have improved and

increased their output of rugs. The quality of Persian rugs

since the 1960s has gradually deteriorated. It is my opinion

that the quality will return slowly in smaller quantities and

higher prices. They have a lot of catching up to do.

5 Never clean or vacuum oriental rugs: About eighty percent

of soil in rugs is dry particulate matter. It acts as sandpaper

and wears out the rug. Because some rugs are thick,

if they are not regularly vacuumed and clean, the soil will

become so embedded that it is impossible to remove all of it.

Beware of anyone selling rugs who say they should not be

cleaned. What they really mean is the rug will not withstand

cleaning due to condition, foundation painting, or some other

hidden defect.

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, massproduced

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. Once mass-produced rugs are used, their value in the

secondary market is not based on knot count.

Gordon's Oriental Rug & Carpet Cleaning

3373 East Highway 76

Mullins, S.C.  29574

Mailing: Address:

PO Box  1265

Marion, SC  29571

Phone - 843-464-9441

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Gordon's Oriental Rug & Carpet Cleaning

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