What is the major difference between Persian and Oriental rugs?

It can be hard to sometimes differentiate between Persian and Oriental rugs since both are prepared with natural woolfibers, ancient and intricate designs, and a high level of durability, except that both carpets are handcrafted rather than machine-made. In contrast, the Oriental rugs are made all over Asia, as in India, China, Iran, Pakistan, Turkey, and Afganistan, etc. Persian carpets are particularly made in Persia and modern-day Iran. But to understand the difference between oriental and Persian rugs, you need to know about high-end wool rugs, knot counts adding to their unique designs.

·         Their place of origin

The major difference between oriental and Persian rugs is from which country they are originated from and created. As the name suggests, Persian carpets are dated back thousands of years from the ancient Persian Empire. Even though the Persian border has been changed frequently over the years, Persian rugs are mostly woven and exported from Iran. The authentic oriental rugs are generally produced from countries like China, Turkey, Tibet, India, and Egypt. After the emergence of China as the primary exporter, the country has become the top exporter of oriental rugs.

·         Design of the carpet

The prominent distinctive factor among Persian rugs and Oriental rugs is their designs. The traditional pattern of traditional Persian runners mostly has four categories such as all-over, compartmental, central medallion, and one-sided. Most Persian carpet styles feature symmetrical design and use warm-toned colors with wools dyed in deep indigo, rust stones, ivory, golden yellow, and sage. Although Oriental rugs use the same patterns, there is always a twist that contains flora and fauna themes with curved lines and landscape designs.

·         Type of knots used in the carpet

Another significant differential characteristic is the pattern of knots both carpets follow. While Persian carpets traditionally use Senneh knots, which are typically asymmetrical, Oriental runners use symmetrical Ghiordes knots to tie the Oriental rugs. Countries like Pakistan, China, Egypt, India, and Iran have been trying these types of knots for many centuries to maintain their identity and authenticity in comparison to modern-day carpet production.

Although Persian rugs can be considered Oriental rugs, they are highly distinguishable because of their unique features when it comes to artistry, designs, and durability. They can be high priced because of their intricacy, quality, and high-know count per square inch. Over the years, both carpet types have gained significant fame due to their elegant and sophisticated characteristics.