Collecting Oriental Rugs is a hobby for some people, for others it is a serious financial investment. A collector's motivation may largely determine the type of rugs they collect.
Some people who collect rugs, look for great deals, or the best buy. Others select purely by style, or value based criteria. Since rugs tend overall to rise in value over time, at a rate that exceeds inflation, collecting oriental carpets is generally a financially sensible pastime.
Rugs are typically classed as antiques when they exceed 100 years in age. Value is determined by a range of factors including knot count (higher is worth more), material, origin, age, condition, and current popularity of that type of rug.
Antique rugs may be classed either as tribal rugs those woven by nomads, often containing simpler, bolder patterns, and manufactured in smaller sizes and city rugs woven in cities by teams, with more complex patterns and larger sizes. Each type wavers in and out of fashion to a certain degree, but neither ever completely loses appeal or value.
Handwoven rugs are the only collectible ones. Machine woven carpets do not gain value, they lack the quality, artistry, and durability of handwoven carpets.
Rugs should be closely inspected when purchasing, to verify that it is a handwoven carpet, and to check the condition. Repairs should be performed promptly if needed. After purchase, the carpet should be properly cared for.
Carpets may be used even when they are collector's items, but they should be placed out of high traffic areas, cleaned regularly, and protected from damage. More valuable carpets may require a specialized preservation environment when not on display.
It is not a hobby for the casual shopper collectible carpets run into tens of thousands of dollars, though bargains are available for less.
Written by Laura Wheeler, marketing assistant for Handmade Oriental Rugs NYC - http://www.handmadeorientalrugsnyc.com. Professional contemporary handmade oriental rug showroom in New York.
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