Tips for Determing Authenticity

(Posted on 30/11/17)

Tips for Determing Authenticity

There are a number of ways to discern a real Oriental rug from a replica. Here are a few of the basic ways to confirm authenticity when purchasing an Oriental ru

1. Purchase from reputable dealers who come with references or positive reviews

2. Avoid pressure sales, discount sales and furniture stores. Unless it is a specialty rug dealer who only sells fine rugs or luxury furniture, it’s likely you’ll end up with an imitation rug.

3. If it’s too good to be true, it probably isn’t real. Inexpensive Oriental rugs are a surefire way of determining quality and authenticity. In other words, you get what you pay for.

4. Ask questions. Any responsible Oriental rug dealer or private seller will know rugs intimately and will share their knowledge with you. They will be able to tell you where it’s from, how it was made, who it was made by, and articulate the hallmarks. They understand that they need to articulate the value of an authentic piece.

5. If buying vintage or pre-owned, look for reliable re-sellers and after-market dealers, purchase from an auction, or hire ask an expert to assist you in procuring a genuine rug.

6. If buying online, sight unseen, or from a private seller, purchase the rug on the condition it can be inspected by an expert to determine authenticity. If the expert determines it is a replica, ensure you have a written guarantee that you can return it for a full refund. Keep in mind that online purchases by credit card or with PayPal can often only insure amounts up to a certain denomination. Be sure to confirm the amount prior to purchase. The last thing you want is to file a claim only to find out that you’re insured for just a fraction of what you paid for the rug.

7. Look for the pattern by turning the carpet over. Persian and Oriental rugs are made by hand from patterns passed down from generation to generation. If you can see the pattern markings on the back of the rug, it’s a fairly good indicator of authenticity.

8. Turn over the rug to look at the base of the pile. You should be able to see rows of knots which are markings of authenticity as well. Backings cover the knots and should be viewed with suspicion.