Evaluating a rug requires engaging your senses—looking closely at the patterns, feeling the materials, and understanding the weaving technique. Here is what you need to inspect:

• 1. The Ghiordes Knot (Double Knot) - Authentic Turkish rugs are woven using a symmetrical double knot, also known as the Ghiordes knot. This technique makes the rug incredibly durable. Flip the rug over; the pattern on the back should be almost as clear as the front. If the back is covered in a canvas or glue, it is not hand-knotted.
• 2. Quality of Materials - Traditional rugs are made from natural fibers: Wool on Wool, Wool on Cotton, or Pure Silk. Hand-spun wool contains natural lanolin, making it naturally stain-resistant and soft. Silk rugs (like Hereke) are the pinnacle of luxury, known for their high knot density and luminous sheen that changes depending on the lighting.
• 3. Natural vs. Synthetic Dyes - Look for natural, organic root dyes (such as madder root, indigo, and walnut husks). Natural dyes age gracefully, developing a beautiful, soft patina over time. You might notice "Abrash"—slight, natural horizontal variations in color—which is a hallmark of authentic, hand-dyed wool.
• 4. Imperfections are Perfect - Because these masterpieces are woven by human hands over many months, perfectly imperfect geometry is a sign of authenticity. Slight variations in symmetry prove it was made on a traditional loom, not spat out by a machine.

Ultimately, the most important rule of buying a Turkish rug is trusting the seller. A reputable dealer will be completely transparent about the rug's origin, age, materials, and knot density. They should be passionate about educating you, not just making a sale.

At Scala Nuova Rug, we take pride in curating only the finest hand-woven pieces. Whether you are seeking a grand Oushak for your living room or an intricate pure silk Hereke, our experts are here to help you find the masterpiece you will cherish forever.