Persian rugs have been around for thousands of years and date back to the 4th century B.C.; their timeless look has outlasted centuries of change and evolution. The intricate design and construction of these rugs, the high-quality, natural fibers, and the everlasting piece of culture and history they provide are why people are willing to pay a pretty penny for a Persian.
But why are Persian rugs so much more expensive than other rugs? Let’s take a closer look at what makes Persian rugs unique and why they’re worth the expense.
How Persian Rugs Are Made?
Persian rugs have a look, feel, and aesthetic that you can’t get from other options. Many other styles give off a luxurious vibe, and not one can reach the level of beauty and history of a Persian rug. It's natural to wonder how they are made, and you’ll want to know what you're getting for your money.
A delicate and intricate process goes into making an authentic Persian rug. These methods date back thousands of years and go around the world, beginning in Iran. Carpet-making evolved into a craft and a way to make money; today, traditional ways of creating a Persian rug remain in effect.
In a Business Insider documentary on the making of a Persian rug, the narrator says:
“Traditionally, Persian rugs are made from sheep's wool, which is boiled, spun, and dyed by hand. These bright and elaborate yarns are dyed with natural colorings from plants and insects.”
The use of natural dyes makes Persian rugs more expensive than synthetic-made rugs. For example look at the beautiful colors in this red Persian rug.
Weavers take the naturally dyed wool and silk and hand-knot rows. Making a Persian rug is time-consuming; an average rug has only 30 to 300 knots per square inch, yet a Persian rug might have over 1,000 knots per square inch. Another reason these rugs are so pricey is just one rug can take years to make by hand!
Overall, Persian rug-making is a tedious and timeless process that makes this type of rug a fantastic investment.
What Else Makes Persian Rugs Special?
In case you weren’t aware, here are some extra facts about Persian rugs. These are what makes them extraordinary and timeless.
- Persian rugs can be found in wool, silk, or a combination. These natural fibers are what make these rugs luxurious and sought-after.
- There are Persian rugs in museums worldwide; many are deemed pieces of protected, ancient art.
- Foreign sales of Persian rugs are hundreds of thousands of dollars annually.
- Sotheby’s sold a 17th-century Persian carpet for $33 million –– the most expensive Persian sold to date!
- Authentic Persian rugs are environmentally-friendly because only natural dyes and materials are used to make them.
Now you’re ready for trivia night if they ever ask about Persian rugs!
Conclusion
Many people wonder why Persian rugs are so expensive compared to other types. While many factors contribute to the cost of these rugs, there are three main reasons. First, Persian rugs are hand-woven and can take months or even years to complete. Second, they are made from high-quality materials like wool and silk, which adds to their value. And finally, they are considered works of art and history, meaning they can be passed down from generation to generation. A Persian or Persian-style rug is worth considering if you’re looking for a beautiful and timeless addition to your home décor!