Did you know that you can usually tell the country from which an Oriental rug originated from its design and style? While we often think of 'Oriental rugs' as having an overall defining style, the truth is that there are many styles of Oriental rugs, most of them growing from traditional patterns and materials common to the country or area in which they originated. Experts in Oriental rugs spend years learning the variations of patterns, materials, colors and weave that are characteristic of the different areas of the Orient.

Persian Rugs - These are the rugs that most people think of when they hear 'Oriental rug'. Persian rugs are easily the most recognized style of Oriental rug. Now known as Iran, Persia has a reputation for producing some of the most beautiful and high quality rugs throughout history. The traditional designs bear the names of the tribal regions where they are made - Tabriz, Kerman, Sarouk and others. The intricate floral and geometric patterns are a hallmark of Persian designs, which make them among the most sought after and valuable Oriental rugs.

Indian Rugs - Most Oriental rugs sold in the United States nowadays are made in India. The rug industry is one of the mainstays of rural workers in India. Indian rug producers keep a finger on the pulse of the market, so you can find rugs made in India that are made in designs that originate in nearly every other country. Oriental rugs from India are generally less expensive than from other countries. The one rug produced in India that did originate in that country is the traditional Indian dhurrie rug, a flat-weave rug of cotton, wool or other natural fibers created in a variety of traditional and contemporary patterns.

Turkey - Turkish rugs are prized not only for their beauty, but because most Turkish Oriental rugs are between 50 and 75 years old. World War I disrupted the Turkish rug industry, and it has taken nearly 50 years for the industry to begin to regain its footing. The Turkish government now encourages and supports Oriental rug weaving as an industry, and the rugs produced are striking in their rich use of color and traditional design.

Tibet - Tibetan rugs are among the most prized of all rugs. Entire villages and families are involved in the art of Oriental rug design. A Tibetan rug can take up to 3,000 hours to complete. They are made from the wool of Himalayan sheep, which is generally regarded as the best wool fiber for rug making because of its high lanolin content. Tibetan rugs feature rustic patterns and rich colors, with variations in the wool texture and coloring that increase the value and uniqueness of the finished products.

To view our list of recommended sources for the highest quality rugs online, visit: Recommended Online Rug Stores.

Carrie Reeder is the owner of eZerk, an informational website with articles and the latest news about various topics. Visit the website to read more about decorating and rugs.