Frequently Asked Questions

Where do Oriental Rugs come from, and which country makes the best rug?
Any rug that is handmade in countries in or near India, Egypt, China, Pakistan, Afghanistan, or Iran ( Persia ) is considered an Oriental rug. In the past, the best rugs were made in Persia. Now, every country makes high-quality rugs and poor-quality rugs – that's why it's essential to buy your rug from an expert.

Where does the name of the rug come from? Does a name indicate quality?
Design names like Tabriz, Kashan, Heriz, and Meshad reflect the name of the town or region in Persia where the rug design originated. The name of a rug does not indicate quality.

How can I determine the quality of an Oriental Rug?
Some things to consider about the quality are:

Tightness of weave – the more tightly the weave, the more wool was used in making it. More knots per square inch can indicate high quality.

Quality of wool – this is an essential factor in a rug's appearance, durability, and value. The more natural lanolin in the thread, the longer it will last. A rug should not feel dry to the touch, nor should its color run or shed.

Density of pile – push your finger into the rug pile; the denser the rug is, the more durable it will be.

What factors are used in determining the price of a rug? Can I afford a good Oriental rug?
In addition to quality, price is determined by age, desirability, materials, and shape. A rug should always be removed from a pile and inspected for flatness and squareness on the floor. Trendy colors and rugs that are specially dyed or use vegetable dyes can increase the price of a rug, along with rugs that are made of or contain genuine silk. Melrose Oriental carries rugs in several price ranges to accommodate all customers.

Should I buy a rug if I have pets or small children?
Pets and children should not deter you from buying fine rugs. Better quality rugs are durable and clean easily. High-traffic areas demand rugs of high quality. A poor-quality rug will never weather the wear and tear that children and pets create.

Regardless of where you make your purchase, David Mouradian welcomes your questions about Oriental rugs – Email David at: davem@melroseorientalrug.com