Rugs are a lovely incorporation in your room décor and they can instantly dress up the floors too. But there are just so many types of rugs that you can’t figure out which one you want. To a person who’s new to rugs, it’s important to know some key pointers which differentiate different rugs. Here’s what you need to know about the differences between Persian and Turkish rugs whether you want to buy Persian rugs or wholesale Oriental rugs.
The History
If you want to know about the key differences between different types of rugs, then it’s important to dabble in the history and origin of the rug. The history of a rug is reflected in its design, the way it’s made, and sometimes, even the selection of material used in the making. A rug and its design can be a gateway to its rich culture and you can also get a peek of the people who live by the values and traditions of their culture and embody it in the rug.
Persian rugs, as the name suggests, are rugs that originated in Iran (also known as Persia). These rugs originate from many cities in Iran and the rich colors, patterns, and designs are proof of the rug’s heritage. There are many cities in Iran, in which Persian rugs are manufactured. The designs and patterns are beautiful and all, but most of all, they embody the culture and religion perfectly as a work of art.
Turkish rugs, on the other hand, are made in Turkey. They have been around for a long time since the 16th century when the Middle East started making rugs and therefore, Turkish rugs came into being. The word “Turkish” is a collective term and it’s used for any rug which is made in Iran, Turkey, Egypt, Afghanistan, and other Middle Eastern and South Asian countries.
The Weaving On The Rugs
There is a difference in the technique in which the rugs are woven as well. Persian rugs have a type of weaving which is called a single loop weave. The loop is weaved in a way that one part of the strand is looped over another strand and then the whole strand is pulled from the other side and the whole process is repeated until the rug is done. This weaving technique is a huge giveaway that a rug is Persian because it can clearly be seen that the loops are different.
As for Turkish rugs, the weaving technique is called a double loop. It’s a technique where a single strand is looped once around another strand and then in the next step, it is looped again, forming a double and secure knot. The knots also add to the strength and durability of the rugs.
The knots on a Turkish rug are very sturdy and these rugs are considered to be stronger than their Persian counterparts. So, whenever you want to differentiate between a Persian and Turkish rug, the easiest way to do so is to look at the knots and you can get a clear idea as to which rug is which.
The Designs & Patterns
You might think that the patterns of all rugs are the same, but someone with a close eye on details, can make out a Persian and Turkish rug just by looking at the design. Persian rugs VA are known for their regal and elegant designs, which are usually in rounded circles and it always finishes off with a beautiful and intricate mandala in the middle.
This design is known to be the signature style of a Persian rug and this is exactly what people fall in love with. The patterns and designs, combined with the rich color palette make these rugs extremely beautiful and you just can’t resist their ethereal beauty that screams culture.
Turkish rugs are a bit different in design from Persian rugs. These rugs don’t have mandalas or medallions as a part of the design. Rather, these rugs are a bit more modern and they usually are designed with abstract, straight, and horizontal lines and patterns. Turkish rugs also have very beautiful tribal patterns and the colors are usually either mute and neutral, or bold and vibrant, which add to the entire appeal of the rug. No matter what rug you go for, each has its own beauty and characteristic design, which are preferred by different people.
Value & Cost
Rugs are considered to be an investment, as they are classic articles, whose beauty shines through, no matter where you put it in. Persian rugs are slightly less expensive than Turkish rugs because they are relatively easy to loop and weave. A Persian rug will cost you anywhere between $1000 to $9000, depending on the type of rug you go for. Antique rugs are obviously going to be more expensive, but they have more value and they are considered to be a very valuable work of art.
Turkish rugs are a bit more expensive than Persian rugs (about $1500-$12000) because there is a lot of time that goes into making these rugs since the looping technique is more detail oriented and they are also very good quality. Turkish rugs are also quite durable than Persian rugs, and that’s because of the knotting technique as well. As far as the value of these rugs is concerned, they are pretty much the same.
Both Persian and Turkish rugs are near and dear to the people who buy them and they consider them to be a sentimental article that can be passed down to generations, as a family heirloom. These rugs are highly regarded among a lot of people and they’re more than just floor coverings which are meant for home décor.
Material Used
Last but not least, it’s important to talk about the materials with which Turkish and Persian rugs are made, because this can also act as a good indicator to differentiate between the two makes.
Persian rugs are unique in a way because they are not only made out of wool. You would think that a luxurious rug like this would be made from wool. Well, these rugs are most commonly made out of silk. That’s not to say that they can’t be made out of wool, but silk is a more popular choice of material. With that being said, silk Persian rugs are extremely durable, even though there is a huge controversy that silk rugs are not strong at all.
The secret of strength lies in the knotting and weaving of the rug, which makes it long-lasting. Turkish rugs are made with wool entirely. It is a characteristic that has been around for a long time. This gives Turkish rugs extra strength, and as a comparison, Turkish rugs last a lot longer than their Persian counterpart. Silk rugs are soft and slippery to the touch, whereas wool is cushiony in feel, so you can easily identify which rug is which, just by feeling the rug. Both rugs are equally valuable and strong.
Conclusion
There you have it! Persian and Turkish rugs are very different from each other and this guide will let you know the different qualities of each of these rugs. If you like Persian rugs, you should also check out antique rugs Virginia.