There is no doubt that Oriental carpets are beautiful, but they are expensive, so if you’re planning on buying such a rug as an investment, then it makes perfect sense to know and understand how to go about buying one for your home. The last thing you want is to spend a lot of money on a carpet, only to be told later on by an expert, that the carpet you believed to be authentic is in fact a fake! There are many places selling Oriental rugs in London and the following list will help you make sure that you are indeed buying the genuine article.
• Make sure to buy from a reputable dealer, preferably one that you’ve been referred to, or one that has positive reviews.
• Avoid furniture stores and discount or pressure sales. Unless it is a luxury furniture store that specializes in selling superior rugs, there is a good chance that you’ll end up buying a fake carpet.
• If the price seems too good to be true, then it probably isn’t the genuine article.
• Ask questions before buying a rug. Responsible dealers or private sellers will know all about Oriental carpets and will willingly share their expertise with you. They will tell you where the rug is from, how it was made, who made it and explain the hallmarks.
• If you’re buying pre-owned or vintage, then look for reputable after-market dealers and re-sellers, buy from well-known auction houses, or hire a rug expert to help you buy an authentic carpet.
• If you’re buying sight-unseen, from a private seller or online, then buy the carpet on the condition that it be inspected by an expert to confirm its authenticity. Should the expert determine the carpet to be a fake, then make sure that you have a written guarantee from the seller that you can return it and get your money refunded.
• Turn the carpet over to look for the pattern. Oriental carpets are hand-made, using patterns that have been handed down from one generation to the next. A fairly good indicator that the rug is authentic is if you can see the pattern markings on its underside.
• Look at the base of the pile at the back of the rug. If the rug is genuine, you should be able to see the rows of knots. Avoid carpets where the knots have been covered.
Armed with the above knowledge, you will be able to buy Oriental Rugs in London with confidence and know that the carpet you are purchasing is the great investment you expect it to be.
