7 Reasons Why Persian Rugs Are So Expensive and Valuable

At first glance, Persian rugs might seem expensive. However, these rugs aren’t just a means to cover your hard flooring. Instead, they are incredible pieces of art with heirloom potential. So, if you’re wondering why are Persian rugs so expensive? We’ve broken down the true value of Persian rugs, including their history and quality. And, most importantly, we answer that burning question are Persian rugs worth it? 

Reasons Why Persian Rugs Are Expensive:

1. Rug weaving is an art that takes time

One thing that impacts the price of authentic Persian rugs is the time it takes to make one. Persian rugs are made by skilled weavers who tie thousands of knots by hand. This is a time-consuming process, and one rug can take months or even years to complete.

2. The quality of materials used 

The finest Persian rugs are made from natural materials like wool, silk and cotton. The better the quality material used, the more expensive the Persian rug. Check out our blog post for our top tips on finding the best-priced rugs without compromising on quality.

Persian rugs made from finer yarns like silk and cotton can take longer to weave, increasing the price and value. Here are some examples of different materials used for Persian rugs below:

Silk-on-silk – refers to silk thread weave on a silk foundation. These rugs are handwoven with a fine yet strong silk thread. Due to the silk being so fine, it takes millions of knots to create the rug – this is what gives this type of rug its clear and detailed pattern. This is one of the hardest rugs to weave and requires great skills. 

Qum silk – Qum rugs are named after the holy city in the centre of Iran. The material composition of a Qum rug is of the utmost quality. They are usually made up of silk and refined wool. In fact, some rugs even contain two layers of silk. Qum Persian rugs utilise their finer composition’s knotting to make them some of the most decorative Persian rugs on the market. 

Combination silk rugs – Only certain rug parts are made from silk, while the foundations are made from either wool or cotton. 

Wool – Persian rugs made from 100% wool are among the lower-priced Persian rugs and are usually heavier than silk Persian rugs. 

Wool and cotton – The vast majority of Persian rugs are made from a combination of wool and cotton. This combination creates a very durable and intricately detailed design. 

3. Age 

Generally, the older a Persian rug, the higher the value. In fact, Persian rugs that date back to the 15th and 17th centuries are usually the highest in price due to their uniqueness. Persian rugs produced within those times were created under different conditions to modern times. Weavers once created Persian rugs for their personal use; they paid the utmost attention to every detail and used the most beautiful range of colours. Even though newer Persian rugs are created with a similar amount of attention to detail, the historical value of some Persian rugs even means their price cannot be estimated. 

4. Knotted by experts 

Novice Persian rug buyers might question if the cost of a Persian rug can be justified. However, we believe there are many advantages to choosing a handwoven Persian rug. One reason is the craftsmanship behind every Persian rug; they are lovingly and meticulously woven by hand, and they are simply a testament to the ability and creativity of the artisans who craft them. In addition, the skills and techniques used to weave these rugs have been passed down from generation to generation. And just as each weaver is different, each handwoven Persian rug is truly unique- no two are identical.

5. Unique designs 

If you mistake Persian rugs as mere floor covering, then that might be why Persian rugs seem expensive. Instead, they should be considered unique artwork pieces renowned for their rich colours and elaborate designs. Interestingly, some Persian rug designs are inspired by nature. Weavers tend to design Persian rugs based on their surrounding environment. That’s why Persian rug motifs can be used to determine their place of origin.

Luxury Hand Carved Blue Persia Rug

6. Place of origin 

Persian rugs were exclusively manufactured in villages scattered around Iranian cities like Qom, Tabriz, Nain and Karman. The different types of Persian rugs can be distinguished by their city or region of origin, as each region has their unique style. The limited production in these regions makes each Persian rug more expensive and exclusive.

7. Investment value 

Persian rugs make the perfect investment piece. Persian rugs are known for holding their value. Some Persian rug collectors even believe that a well-made Persian rug never decreases in price. Suppose you’re looking to purchase a Persian rug for investment purposes. In that case, quality, condition, rarity and provenance of your handwoven Persian rug are key factors in maintaining the value, and in some cases, the value may even increase.

When a Persian rug reaches around 30-99 years old, it goes into the category of ‘Vintage’, and once it gets to 100+, it becomes an ‘Antique’ rug. The older a Persian rug gets, the rarer it becomes, and rarer items increase in value. Some of the most exquisite rugs are antiques that have been in families for generations, and these are considered pieces of artwork. 

Are Persian rugs worth it?

Despite their exquisite designs, colours, and ability to add class to any room; what really makes Persian rugs worth the price tag is the craftsmanship and time it takes to make one. And this skill is what makes Persian rugs not only decorative pieces but investment items also. If you care for your authentic Persian rug, it’s not uncommon for them to increase in value over time.

These are just a few of the many factors that make Persian rugs expensive and extremely valuable. The most important thing to consider is that weaving Persian rugs takes time and skill. Head to our website to browse our large range of Persian rugs or head to our blog post for the best tips on decorating with a Persian rug.