Many classic designs have endured for centuries, having been passed down from family to family and artisan to artisan, preserving design elements from generation to generation. A knowledgeable dealer will play a key role in helping you understand the history and meaning of a specific design and also how, where and when a carpet was originally woven.

When interested in a new rug, inquire about the producer.

With the help of your dealer or design professional, find out if the producer has a long record of providing quality products and a reputation for providing exemplary service. Most quality dealers will have strong relationships with the best suppliers.

This kind of specific information helps define the integrity of a rug and will give you confidence in the authenticity of the rug you choose.

If the origin of a new rug is unknown, and the information about it is ambiguous, the value of the rug may be harder to determine.

As a prospective owner, you may be interested in the details of the pattern and the integrity of the materials and construction. It is shrewd buying policy and can be a fascinating exercise in artistic detective work.

Be sure to ask your dealer for clarification, as the history of the design and its execution will help you understand, appreciate and determine your selection.