Persian Rugs When most people hear the word Oriental rug they think of a Persian rug. That's because of all the Oriental rugs the Persian rugs are the easiest to identify and so people remember them. Persia know called Iran, has a reputation for producing the highest quality and most beautiful rugs in the entire world. And they've been doing this for hundreds of years. The traditional designs have the name of the tribal region where they were made. Kerman, Sarouk, Tabriz are three of the most common areas. Persian rugs are easily identified by their geometric patterns and intricate floral patterns. Antique Persian rugs are very popular and highly sought after often bringing very high prices if they are in excellent condition. Of course you can buy a modern Persian rug for a reasonable price and it will still have the geometric and floral patterns of the area. Indian Rugs Most of the Oriental rugs that we buy in the western world originate from India. The rug industry in India is one of the main forms of employment for rural workers. The modern India rugs are made in the traditional designs and patterns but cost a fraction of the price. And of course the quality is as good as it was in the past. They are still hand made by the locals. There is one rug that is produced in India that actually did originate in India. That is the traditional dhurrie rug which is a cotton and wool rug, sometimes with other natural fibers, created in a variety of traditional patterns, as well as some contemporary patterns. Turkey Turkey rugs are a real find and highly sought after because they are all between 50 and 75 years old. The first world war put an end to the Turkish Oriental rug industry and they are just now beginning to make a comeback as the current government now encourages this industry. Turkey rugs are identifiable by their traditional designs and very rich colors. Tibet Tibet rugs are one of the most prized rugs to own. Entire families from villages are involved in making Oriental rugs. One rug can take as many as 3500 hours to complete. The wool of the Himalayan sheep is used to make these rugs. It has a high lanolin content making it perfect from rugs. Tibetan rugs can be recognized from their very rich colors and rustic patterns as well as the variations in color and texture. Each rug is truly a unique piece and a work of art. But be prepared to pay a pretty price for one of these beauties!