Turkish rugs have long been celebrated for their intricate designs, rich colors, and impeccable craftsmanship. These handmade works of art are a testament to the skill and creativity of Turkish artisans who have been perfecting this art form for centuries.
Turkish rugs have become increasingly popular in the West, as they add a touch of elegance and history to any space.
However, with increasing demand comes the question on every shopper’s mind: “How much does a good Turkish rug cost?”.
It’s an important question that deserves a thorough answer. The value of a rug is not simply determined by its price tag but by several factors such as quality, design complexity, knot density, age, and rarity.
In this article, we will delve into these factors to provide you with an accurate idea of how much you should expect to pay for a high-quality Turkish rug.
So whether you’re looking for that special piece to add character to your living room or investing in an heirloom-quality piece from Turkey’s Grand Bazaar, read on to discover what goes into the cost of purchasing one of these stunning pieces of art.
Factors that Affect the Cost of a Turkish Rug
Why are Turkish rugs so expensive and are Turkish carpets good quality?
Let’s dive into the questions to get answers before purchasing a Turkish rug for your home design.
Quality of materials used
The quality of materials used to create a Turkish rug is one of the most significant factors that influence its cost.
Generally, wool is the most commonly used material in Turkish rug weaving, but there are also silk and cotton options available. The type and quality of wool used can vary depending on the region, climate, and specific breed of sheep.
Turkish rugs made from high-quality wool tend to be more expensive because they are softer, more durable, and have richer colors.
You can tell if a rug is made from good quality wool by feeling it – if it’s soft to the touch and doesn’t shed easily, then it’s likely made with excellent wool.
Age and rarity
Another factor that affects the cost of a Turkish rug is its age and rarity.
Antique Turkish rugs are highly sought after by collectors because they have endured for decades or even centuries without losing their beauty or durability. The older the rug, the more valuable it becomes; however, age alone does not determine value.
Rarity also plays a significant role in determining price. If a particular style or design is no longer being produced or was only created in limited quantities at one point in time, then it will be more expensive due to its rarity.
Antique Turkish rugs’ price range is from $8000 to $100 000 and over.
Size and design complexity
Size and design complexity also impact how much you can expect to pay for a Turkish rug.
Larger rugs require more material and time to make than smaller ones; therefore, they tend to be pricier.
Moreover, intricate designs require greater skill from weavers who must take extra care when knotting each thread into place. This level of detail requires additional time and effort hence contributing significantly to higher costs.
Knot density
A critical factor affecting price when it comes to Turkish rugs is knot density. Knot density refers to the number of knots per square inch in a rug, and the higher the knot count, the more expensive the rug will be.
Rugs with more knots are richer in detail, and intricacy and are generally more durable than those with fewer knots.
The cost of weaving also increases as knot density increases; hence, it is not uncommon for highly detailed and dense rugs to be very expensive.
However, a higher knot density does not necessarily indicate that a rug is better – it’s all about personal preference and how much you’re willing to pay for quality workmanship.
Average Prices for Different Types of Turkish Rugs
Types of Turkish carpets are another point to get keen with to understand what makes Turkish rugs expensive.
The main and most popular types of Turkish carpets are:
Kilim Rugs: A Bargain for Your Floors
Kilim rugs, also known as flatweave rugs, are a popular and affordable option in the world of Turkish rugs. They feature bold geometric designs that can add color and texture to any room.
Kilim rugs are made using a flat weaving technique and are typically made with wool or cotton. The cost of a kilim rug can vary depending on its size and quality.
A small kilim rug can cost around $100, while larger sizes can range from $300 to $1000 or more.
However, kilim rugs are often considered a bargain compared to other types of Turkish rugs due to their lower knot density and simpler construction.
Oushak Rugs: Timeless Beauty at a Premium Price
Oushak rugs originate from the town of Oushak in western Turkey and are known for their soft, muted colors and large-scale floral or geometric patterns.
They have been produced since the 15th century and display an elegant beauty that never goes out of style.
Oushak rugs are usually hand-knotted with high-quality wool or silk materials, which makes them more expensive than kilims.
Smaller Oushak rugs can start at around $500-$700 but larger sizes may cost thousands of dollars depending on their size, age, quality of materials used, knot density, design complexity and rarity.
Hereke Rugs: Luxurious Masterpieces Fit for Royalty
Hereke is a town located outside Istanbul that has been producing handmade silk carpets since the Ottoman Empire era. They’re known for their intricate designs such as calligraphy motifs as well as floral patterns often using gold threads which adds an opulent touch to any room.
Due to premium materials such as silk and gold threads, knot density and the time it takes to complete a single rug, Hereke rugs are very expensive.
Hereke rug price: They can range from $2000 for a small one to tens of thousands of dollars for a rare and large masterpiece.
Sivas Rugs: A Rare Find for Rug Collectors
What is a Sivas rug? Sivas rugs are woven in the city of Sivas in east-central Turkey. These unique rugs are known for their use of deep red and blue colors, along with intricate patterns and symbols such as tree-of-life or evil eye motifs.
Sivas rugs are not commonly produced due to their rarity and the high quality wool materials used in their production.
The cost of a Sivas rug can range from $2000 or more to $90 000 depending on its size, age, quality of materials used, knot density, design complexity and rarity making them perfect pieces for avid collectors who want something truly unique.
Where to Buy Authentic Turkish Rugs
Turkish rugs are highly sought after, which means they can be quite expensive.
However, if you know where to look, you can find authentic Turkish rugs at reasonable prices. Here are some of the best places to buy authentic Turkish rugs:
Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar
Why is the Grand Bazaar so famous? Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar is one of the most famous markets in the world, and it’s also one of the best places to buy authentic Turkish rugs. With over 61 covered streets, 4000 shops and stalls, the Grand Bazaar offers a wide variety of rugs at different price points.
It was founded in 1461 during the Ottoman Empire, making it over 560 years old.
The world’s most-visited tourist attraction in 2014 had 91 250 000 visitors, ranking it as number one among the world’s most-visited tourist attractions.
You’ll find everything from small kilim rugs to large silk Hereke carpets. When shopping at the Grand Bazaar, it’s important to be prepared to haggle.
Prices are rarely fixed, so don’t be afraid to negotiate with the shopkeeper. Also, make sure that you’re buying from a reputable dealer who sells authentic Turkish rugs.
How much are Turkish rugs in Istanbul?
The price of Turkish rugs in Istanbul can vary greatly depending on factors such as size, quality, and materials used.
Generally, prices can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to remember that bargaining is a common practice in the Grand Bazaar and other markets, so don’t be afraid to get the best deal possible.
Local Markets in Turkey
If you’re looking for an authentic Turkish rug at a bargain price, then local markets in Turkey are your best bet.
These markets vary in size and scope depending on where you go but you can usually find a good selection of handmade carpets and kilims that are priced fairly.
One thing that is important when buying from local markets is asking questions about how they were made or if they were machine-made or not. It’s not uncommon for sellers who deal with tourists to sell fake products for inflated prices especially if they know less about their products
Online Retailers
If traveling isn’t an option for you but still want an authentic Turkish rug then online retailers might have what you need.
There are many online stores that specialize in selling handmade traditional carpets straight from Turkey which eliminates any extra costs like flights. However, before making your purchase, make sure to do your research and read reviews.
The online market can be quite saturated with fraudulent rugs, so it’s important to buy from a reputable dealer. While the prices may be lower than buying in person, there are still some risks involved so it’s better to take your time when choosing the right seller for you.
Tips for Negotiating the Price of a Turkish Rug
Know your budget beforehand
Before embarking on your quest for the perfect Turkish rug, it is important to establish a budget.
This will help you narrow down your options and avoid overspending. Keep in mind that good quality rugs are an investment, so be willing to spend a little more on something that you love and that will last.
Be knowledgeable about rug quality and pricing
To effectively negotiate the price of a Turkish rug, it is important to be knowledgeable about rug quality and pricing. Do some research beforehand to familiarize yourself with the different types of rugs available, such as Kilim, Oushak, Hereke, and Sivas rugs.
Look at examples of high-quality rugs and learn what to look for in terms of materials used, knot density, age, and rarity.
This knowledge can help you recognize when you have found a good quality rug that is worth its asking price.
Don’t be afraid to haggle
Haggling over the price of goods is an accepted practice in many cultures around the world, including Turkey.
When negotiating for a Turkish rug, it is important not to be intimidated by sellers who initially offer prices above your budget. Politely make a counteroffer while explaining why you believe that amount is fair based on factors such as quality or rarity.
Remember that negotiations are meant to be friendly; don’t get too aggressive or impatient if things aren’t going as planned.
In addition to these tips for successful price negotiations on Turkish rugs, remember that developing personal relationships with vendors can also lead to better deals over time.
If you plan on buying multiple rugs from one seller or visiting them frequently during your travels in Turkey (or online), they may be more willing to work with you on pricing in order to build up a long-term business.
Ultimately, take your time and enjoy the process of finding the perfect Turkish rug for your home or office space.
Conclusion
The cost of Turkish rugs can vary greatly depending on a number of factors – from $500 or $1000 to $90 000 and more.
Materials, age, size, design complexity, and knot density all play a role in determining the price of a rug.
Additionally, different types of Turkish rugs come with different average price points; kilim rugs are generally less expensive than Oushak or Hereke rugs. For those interested in purchasing an authentic Turkish rug, Istanbul’s Grand Bazaar and local markets in Turkey are great places to start.
However, online retailers can also offer a wide selection at competitive prices. It is important to be prepared when negotiating the cost of a rug.
Know your budget beforehand and be knowledgeable about rug quality and pricing. Don’t be afraid to haggle – many sellers expect it and may even offer you a better deal if you show interest in their product.
In short: while the cost of Turkish rugs may seem daunting at first glance, there are plenty of ways to ensure that you get a good deal while still investing in a high-quality piece that will last for years to come. Happy hunting!
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