7 Warning Signs of Antique Persian Rug Scams on Chairish

Excessively Low Price: While tempting, an unrealistically low price for a hand-knotted antique Persian rug is a major red flag. The value of these rugs is derived from their materials, craftsmanship, age, and condition, making genuine pieces inherently valuable. A significantly lower price may indicate a machine-made reproduction, a rug with undisclosed damage, or an outright fake.

Vague or Poor-Quality Photos: Scammers often use stock photos, blurry images, or photos that intentionally hide defects. Always scrutinize the listing photos. Look for clear, high-resolution images that show the rug from multiple angles, including the back and edges. If photos are insufficient, ask the seller for more detailed shots, paying attention to the knot structure, pile consistency, and any signs of wear or repair.

Misleading Condition Reports ('Distressed' or 'Restored' Claims): Be wary of rugs described as 'distressed' if they appear too new, or if 'restoration' claims are made without clear details. 'Distressed' can sometimes mean artificially aged or chemically treated to look old, which can compromise the rug's integrity. Similarly, undisclosed or poorly executed restorations can significantly devalue a rug.

Suspicious Fringe and Backing Details: Genuine antique Persian rugs have fringes that are part of the foundation (warp threads). Beware of glued-on fringes or rugs with a plastic or mesh backing, as these are clear indicators of machine-made fakes.

Lack of Specificity on Dyes and Materials: Authentic antique rugs often use vegetable dyes. If a seller is vague about the types of dyes or materials used, or if synthetic fibers are suspected, it's a red flag. Some treated rugs may use commercial dyes and chemicals that can damage the fibers over time.

Unwillingness to Provide Certificates or Guarantees: A reputable seller of antique Persian rugs should be able to provide a certificate of authenticity or at least guarantee the item's authenticity in writing. If a seller is hesitant to offer such documentation or a clear return policy for authenticity issues, proceed with extreme caution.

Requests for Off-Platform Communication or Payment: Be extremely wary if a seller pushes for communication or payment outside of Chairish's platform. This is a common tactic to bypass the platform's buyer protection and is often a precursor to more elaborate scams, such as payment via check or requests for additional 'fees' outside the agreed price.