Oriental rugs are a good option for people who are looking to purchase a work of art that is both beautiful and functional. Turkish rugs come in a variety of price levels and hold their value well. At the high end, a Turkish rug can cost more than four thousand dollars. But a smaller rug made by machine can be much more affordable, around forty or fifty dollars. An antique rug, if you can afford it, can become a treasured heirloom that maintains its worth for years to come.

Turkish rugs are actually something of a misnomer. Although they were made popular in Turkey, they are made throughout the Middle East and some parts of Africa. You will need the help of an expert with a good reputation if you go to this part of the world to buy a rug. Some guides may seem helpful, but are actually getting a percentage of the sale price from shop owners who make deals with them. If you use one of these guides, you will end up paying more.

To make sure you choose the perfect rug, you need to give it some scrutiny. Meticulously inspect the weave of the rug. It is most likely machine made if the weave seems flawless. You will find an irregular weave on a genuine hand woven Oriental carpet, suggest that there may be minor spaces among the various knots. Cut-rate mass produced rugs typically bear ends which are improperly finished or possess skimpy borders.

The best quality Turkish area rugs are very thick and luxurious and made with one hundred percent wool. Some of the better rugs are may be constructed with a blend of wool and silk. On the other end of the price and quality spectrum are rugs that are made with cotton. These rugs will show wear much more quickly and do not have a good resale value. To determine whether you are looking at a wool rug or a cheap cotton imitation, take a close look at the fringe. Wool rugs will be wool down to the last thread, so if the fringe is cotton, the rug is not wool.

Finally, don't be afraid to take your time looking through what the rug dealer has to offer. The merchant will consider the fact that you are taking time to look closely at his wares as a sign of respect. Once you have selected a rug, you don't have to accept the first price the merchant quotes you. They expect people to think of that price as a starting point for negotiations. But, the best selection and the best deals can be found by purchasing your oriental and Turkish rugs online.