5 Tips to Identify Authentic Navajo Rugs (With Videos)
Today is the day you’ve decided to buy a Navajo rug, and whether you’re fortunate enough to be in the southwest or doing an eBay search from home, there are a few important things to consider.
First and foremost – make sure the piece you are looking at is an authentic Navajo textile. Many countries produce “knock-offs”and to the untrained eye these counterfeits may be hard to differentiate from the real thing. If possible, it’s best to buy from an established dealer, one with a solid reputation and trained personnel to assist you, but if that isn’t the case, here are a few tips.
1- Navajo rugs, unless they are colorful Germantowns from the late 1800’s, saddle blankets or small, tourist rugs called Gallup throws, have no fringe. If you see a fringed rug, chances are it’s not Navajo. Also, Navajo rugs often have side selvage cords, two or three cords which follow through the weft loops to maintain rug alignment and provide added strength and durability. Imitations do not employ this weaving technique.
2- Navajo rugs are usually woven from 100% sheep wool, both warp and weft, whether hand spun or commercial. Exceptions to this are the Gallup throw which has a cotton warp and some Transitional rugs from the late 1800’s. “Knock off” rugs are often woven with acrylic yarn.
3-Navajo rugs most often have finished tassel cords at the four corners, while foreign weaves may have thick, rope-like braids. Navajo rugs should lie flat on the floor, have the same width at top and bottom with no exposed warp.
4- Once you’re confident that the piece you are looking at is genuine Navajo, price is another factor to consider. Navajo textiles are priced based on their age, tightness of weave, fineness of wool, complexity of pattern, symmetry of design, straightness, color uniformity, renown of the weaver and overall harmony and balance.
5- In purchasing a Navajo rug it is helpful to know something about Navajo history and culture, such as the all important fact that Navajo weavers from different parts of the Reservation weave different styles of rugs.
