Last updated on August 15th, 2023 at 12:48 am
If you’re in the market for a Beni Ourain rug, you’ll want to make sure you’re getting the real deal. With their unique tribal designs and plush textures, these handmade Moroccan rugs have become increasingly popular in recent years.
However, with their rising popularity, there’s also been a surge in knock-off versions flooding the market.
In this article, we’ll share some tips and tricks on how to distinguish between a real Beni Ourain rug and a fake one. From the materials used to the design patterns and knots, we’ll help you become a savvy shopper and find the perfect authentic Beni Ourain rug for your home.
What is Beni Ourain carpet?
First things first.
What is the Beni Ourain meaning?
Beni Ourain rugs have a rich history that dates back centuries. These tribal rugs are handwoven by the Berber people, who are a native group in Morocco.
Beni Ourain pronunciation: The pronunciation of “Beni Ourain” is roughly “beh-nee oo-rayn” or “ben-ee oo-rayn”.
The name Beni Ourain comes from the Beni Ourain tribe from the Atlas Mountains, which is one of the largest Berber tribes still in existence today. The Berber people have been making these rugs for generations as they serve both practical and cultural purposes.
They were originally made to protect against harsh weather conditions in the Atlas Mountains where the tribe resides.
In addition to this, they also served as sleeping mats, wall hangings, and even blankets for newborn babies.
Why Authenticity Matters When It Comes to Purchasing a Rug
When it comes to purchasing a rug, authenticity is crucial because it affects both quality and value. A genuine Beni Ourain rug is made with high-quality wool that’s thick and durable with a soft texture.
Synthetic materials are often used in counterfeit versions of these rugs which can result in a cheap feel that quickly wears out over time.
Moreover, an authentic Berber rug act as wearable pieces of art that add charm and elegance to your decor style making them worth investing in for high-quality home decor enthusiasts.
That being said, purchasing an authentic rug can be challenging due to the prevalence of cheap imitations on various online platforms.
Therefore it’s important for buyers to learn how to spot genuine Beni Ourain rugs so that they can avoid falling prey to fake products with low-quality materials and construction methods which might ruin your investment instead.
Materials
Genuine Wool vs Synthetic Fibers
One of the most crucial aspects of determining the authenticity of a Beni Ourain rug is to consider the materials used.
Beni Ourain rugs are traditionally made from 100% sheep wool, which is one of the reasons why they are so unique and desirable.
Are Beni Ourain rugs soft?
The wool should be soft and fluffy, with a natural sheen that varies in color depending on the breed of sheep it came from. Genuine wool also has natural oils that make it feel supple and flexible, allowing it to bend without breaking.
On the other hand, synthetic fibers are typically made from cheap materials like polyester or acrylic, which cause them to have a rough texture and an unnatural shine.
Synthetic fibers don’t have any natural oils, which makes them stiff and brittle over time.
Additionally, synthetic fibers lack any subtle variations in color that are present in genuine wool. It’s important to not only feel for softness but also look closely at color variations when inspecting a potential rug.
Importance of Texture and Feel
When it comes to Beni Ourain rugs, texture and feel are everything. Because these rugs were originally designed for use by nomads as blankets or bedding material during cold desert nights, they had to be warm and comfortable against the skin.
The texture should be invitingly plush with just the right amount of give underfoot.
Even though some imperfections may exist in traditional handmade Moroccan rugs’ weaving patterns due to their production process through manual labor, all areas must be soft if they are made out of genuine wool.
It’s essential always to touch a rug before buying it unless you can visit a trusted shop where you know exactly what you’re getting beforehand from previous purchases or word-of-mouth recommendations.
Don’t hesitate to run your hands through every inch of the fiber pile on both sides; if there’s a single scratchy spot, that may indicate the presence of synthetic fibers or something else that shouldn’t be present in an authentic Beni Ourain rug.
By examining the texture and feel of the rug, you can easily differentiate between a genuine Beni Ourain rug and a counterfeit one made with synthetic materials.
4 tips to tell if a Beni Ourain rug is real
—
Design
Traditional Geometric Patterns
One of the most significant characteristics of Beni Ourain rugs is their traditional geometric patterns.
These patterns are usually simple, yet elegant and timeless. They are inspired by the Berber tribes’ lifestyle and beliefs, mainly focusing on nature, the sun, and other natural elements.
If you’re looking for an authentic Beni Ourain rug, make sure to check for traditional geometric designs in various sizes. These designs can range from large diamonds and triangles to small dots or lines.
The symmetry of these patterns is also a telltale sign of authenticity. If the design appears too perfect or machine-like, it may be a sign that the rug is not authentic.
Natural Dyes vs Synthetic Dyes
Another essential aspect to look out for when identifying an authentic Beni Ourain rug is the dye used in its creation.
Traditionally made rugs utilized natural dyes derived from plants such as indigo, henna, and saffron. These dyes produced unique colors that would fade over time naturally.
On the other hand, synthetic dyes were introduced later on as a cheaper alternative to natural dyes. Synthetic dyes often produce brighter colors that do not fade as quickly as those achieved with natural dyes.
When examining a Beni Ourain rug’s authenticity, it’s important to look for signs of fading or color inconsistency indicative of natural dyes. If you notice bright and vibrant colors throughout the carpet without any fading or inconsistencies in color tone, it may be worth investigating further before making a purchase decision.
Weaving Techniques: Hand-Knotted vs Machine-Made
One of the most important factors to consider when determining the authenticity of a Beni Ourain rug is the weaving technique used to create it.
Authentic Beni Ourain rugs are always hand-knotted, meaning that each individual knot is tied by hand by skilled weavers.
How are Beni Ourain rugs made?
—
This labor-intensive process can take several months to complete, but it ensures that each rug is one-of-a-kind and made with care. On the other hand, machine-made rugs are created quickly and cheaply using automated machinery.
While they may look similar at first glance, machine-made rugs lack the unique character and quality of hand-knotted rugs.
To determine if a Beni Ourain rug is authentic, examine the underside of the rug for any signs of stitching or uniformity – if there are visible seams or repeating patterns, it may be a machine-made imitation.
Imperfections as a Sign of Authenticity
While imperfections might be seen as flaws in other textiles, they are actually a sign of authenticity in Beni Ourain rugs.
Handmade by skilled artisans rather than mass-produced in factories, these rugs often incorporate subtle variations in color and pattern.
These so-called “imperfections” are actually what makes each Beni Ourain rug unique and belong to the fine Moroccan rugs adding to its charm.
To identify an authentic Beni Ourain rug based on its imperfections, look for irregularities in both color and design.
For example, you might notice slight variations in the thickness or length of individual wool fibers within certain sections of the rug. Or you might see unexpected gaps or interruptions within larger patterns which indicate that the weaver had to improvise due to running out of specific wool colors or yarns.
Learning about weaving techniques and imperfections can help you determine whether your potential purchase is an authentic Beni Ourain rug or not.
So, always keep these factors in mind while shopping for a Beni Ourain rug and get the best one for your home.
Origin and Provenance
Identifying the region where the rug was made
When it comes to identifying an authentic Beni Ourain rug, one of the most important factors is knowing where it comes from.
These rugs are traditionally made by the Berber tribes of Morocco who live in the Atlas Mountains.
However, there are many fake Beni Ourain rugs on the market that are mass-produced in other countries. To ensure that you’re getting a real Beni Ourain rug, you need to look for specific details that indicate that it was made in Morocco.
One thing to look for is the type of wool used. Authentic Beni Ourain rugs are made with high-quality sheep’s wool sourced from sheep raised in the Atlas Mountains.
This wool has a unique texture and feel that can’t be replicated with synthetic fibers.
Additionally, traditional Moroccan dyes are used to color these rugs instead of synthetic dyes commonly found in counterfeit versions.
Tracing the rug’s history and previous owners
Another way to ensure authenticity when purchasing a Beni Ourain rug is by tracing its history and previous owners. This can be done by asking for information about where and when the rug was purchased, as well as its previous owners if possible.
Authentic Beni Ourain rugs have been handmade by generations of Berber women over many centuries, so each one has a unique story to tell.
It’s not uncommon for these rugs to be passed down through families or sold from one person to another over time. If you’re lucky enough to own an authentic Beni Ourain rug with a rich history behind it, then cherish it as an heirloom piece that can be passed down through your own family for generations to come.
Price Point
Unrealistic bargains as a red flag for counterfeit rugs
When it comes to purchasing a Beni Ourain rug, the old adage “if it seems too good to be true, it probably is” definitely applies. While it’s understandable to want to score a bargain, an unusually low price could be an indication that the rug is not genuine.
Counterfeiters have become more sophisticated in their methods and are producing rugs that look like the real thing but at a fraction of the cost.
One way counterfeiters keep costs down is by using synthetic materials instead of genuine wool.
The result is a rug that looks similar but lacks the durability and texture of an authentic Beni Ourain rug.
Don’t be fooled by imitations – invest in quality and ensure you are getting your money’s worth.
Understanding the market value and investing in quality
When shopping for a Beni Ourain rug, understanding market value can help you avoid overpaying for a subpar product or getting scammed altogether.
How long do Beni Ourain rugs last?
Beni Ourain rugs are made of high-quality wool by skilled artisans and can take weeks or even months to create, which makes them very durable.
With proper care and maintenance, a Beni Ourain rug can last for decades or even generations. The longevity of a rug also depends on factors such as foot traffic, exposure to sunlight, and the quality of materials used. Regular cleaning and proper storage can help extend the life of the rug.
As such, they can come with a higher price tag than mass-produced machine-made rugs. However, investing in quality means you are purchasing something that will last for years to come and only increase in value over time.
A genuine Beni Ourain rug is not just something beautiful to decorate your home with – it’s also a piece of history and culture that deserves respect and admiration.
Don’t hesitate to spend more on something authentic that will bring joy for years rather than settling for an imitation that won’t stand the test of time.
Beni Ourain Rug Review
If buying your Beni Ourain rug online try to investigate as many customer reviews as possible. This method will give you additional practical knowledge shared by real owners of Beni Ourain rugs so that you can pay attention to some specific aspects when choosing your own rug.
Below you can read the result of our research on customer reviews on the internet who bought a Beni Ourain Moroccan rug.
Important point: These comments belong to different people with their own views; the reviews were taken from different sellers and Beni Ourain rug products.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| High-quality and comfortable | The rug color may differ from the photo |
| Beautiful design and style | Uneven threads |
| Doesn’t shed | Shedding experience |
| Well-made and durable | |
| Handmade and unique | |
| Plush and soft | |
| High-quality and thick | |
| Reasonably priced | |
| Beautiful and luxurious look |
Care and Maintenance
Proper Cleaning Techniques to Preserve the Rug’s Quality
Beni Ourain rugs are beautiful, durable, and can last for generations when properly cared for. To keep your rug looking its best, regular cleaning is essential. The following tips will help you preserve the quality of your rug:
Avoid Frequent Vacuuming
Excessive vacuuming can damage the wool fibers and cause them to shed.
Instead, it is recommended that you vacuum your rug once a month using a low-suction setting or a handheld attachment. Alternatively, you can sweep the rug with a broom or use a soft-bristled brush to remove any dirt or debris.
Treat Spills Immediately
If something spills on your Beni Ourain rug, it is vital to attend to it right away. Blot up any excess liquid with a clean cloth or paper towel.
Do not rub the stain as this will only spread it further. Instead, use a mild detergent solution or specialized carpet cleaner and gently dab at the spot until the stain has been lifted.
Avoid Excessive Moisture
Beni Ourain rugs are made of natural wool fibers that can absorb moisture quickly. Therefore, it is crucial to avoid excessive moisture exposure by keeping humidifiers away from your rug and hanging wet items like towels elsewhere in your home.
Rotate Your Rug Regularly
To prevent uneven wear patterns from developing on your Beni Ourain rug, rotate it regularly so that all areas receive equal foot traffic. This will also help ensure that any fading due to sunlight exposure occurs uniformly across the entire surface of your rug.
By following these simple care and maintenance tips, you can be sure that you are preserving the beauty and quality of your Beni Ourain rug for years to come.
Conclusion: How to Tell If a Beni Ourain Rug Is Real
Identifying an authentic Beni Ourain rug involves considering several factors. First, it is important to check the materials used in the rug.
Genuine wool is a key component of a real Beni Ourain rug, and it should have a soft and luxurious texture to it. Synthetic fibers lack the same quality, so be sure to feel for the texture when you’re inspecting a rug.
Next, examine the design of the rug. Traditional geometric patterns are a hallmark of authentic Beni Ourain rugs.
Additionally, natural dyes are used in real rugs as opposed to synthetic dyes that have a more uniform color pattern. The weaving technique can also indicate whether or not you’re looking at an authentic rug.
Hand-knotted rugs will often have slight imperfections due to their handmade nature while machine-made rugs will look more uniform in appearance. Consider where the rug came from and its provenance.
Knowing where it was made and who previously owned it can provide clues as to its authenticity. When purchasing a Beni Ourain rug, remember that price point is also an important consideration – if something seems too good to be true in terms of price or supposed discounts on authentic pieces then it probably is!
Investing in quality will ensure that your purchase lasts for many years to come while retaining its value over time. By following these key points, you can confidently identify whether or not you’re looking at an authentic Beni Ourain rug when browsing your options online or in stores.