Navajo rug ID begins with the ability to recognize some basic regional characteristics. It is important to remember, however, that every rug, like it's weaver, is an individual. The process of weaving, to the Navajo, is a spiritual one. Each weaver puts her (or occasionally, his) soul and creative energy into the weaving of a rug. Though it may have a characteristic regional design, it will be the interpretation of the weaver that will make that rug its own enduring piece of art.
In addition to supporting the local art community, buying authentic rugs is an investment in a valuable piece of American art. Do not buy a rug from a department store, as the designer may have simply referenced a Navajo painting on it to give it a look that looks like it was made by a Navajo. You may be wondering what the Value of a Navajo rug is. The beauty of these handwoven rugs lies in their authenticity, but not every authentic Navajo rug is worth as much as you think. There are many ways to appraise Navajo rugs. You can visit a museum, sell it to a professional retailer, or sell it online through sites like eBay. To increase the value of your Navajo rug, you should restore it if it is not in good condition. You can also hire a professional appraiser to evaluate it for you.
The Navajo rugs are a great example of exceptional craftsmanship. Weavers who weaved the Navajo rugs of old had a lot to offer in rug weaving.
Below you’ll see master weaver Jennie Slick with a small finished rug. It’s easy to see that it has no fringe, and the side selvage cord shows up well against the dark wool in the background. This rug has all the hallmarks of a genuine Navajo rug. It is all wool, including the warp, has no fringe and has a side selvage cord. Finally, at right, is a nice Zapotec rug. You can see the fringe at the bottom. This is the type of rug that is most often confused with a Navajo weaving, and you can see why if you don’t know about the fringe. The yarns for these rugs are often hand spun and hand-dyed and there is a great deal of skill involved in weaving them; they’re just not Navajo. The color choices are not typically Navajo, and there is markedly less pattern than you would usually see in a typical Navajo piece that is the same size.
Knowing the origins of the Navajo rugs will help you understand why they cost more. What is the material used to make Navajo rugs? In the mid-19th-century, weavers used three-ply yarn, also known as Saxony. Saxony stands for high-quality silky and naturally dyed years. When it comes to natural dyes they are superior to artificial. Natural dyes last longer, are brighter and don't fade so easily. Navajo rugs have a longer life span than any other. These are the same factors that were true for the Navajo rugs natural dyes. Saxony has a high quality material.The price of brand rugs will be generally lower than those of the older ones because they are less valuable. However, the overall condition may determine the price of an ancient rug.
Although it may seem difficult to get a Navajo rug, the process is very simple. Many online retailers offer Navajo rugs in their online galleries. You will need to visit a store located in Navajo to see them in person. A reservation is required, so make sure you are able to visit Navajo homes. Two exceptions to the "no-frizzle" rule exist. Germantown rugs are made with a fringe added after it is woven. These fringes are very rare, and you can see a picture of one at the left. An antique Germantown might have some fringe, but it doesn't affect the fabric. The fringe is an added-on. A Gallup throw is the exception to this rule. These tiny pieces measure approximately 18" by 24", and are made in Gallup, New Mexico. Gallup throws are woven on a cotton warp. The weaving is cut and knotted instead of being finished in the traditional manner so that there is only one fringe. There are many Gallup throws that were sold to passengers on the Sante Fe railroad. These make a great addition to any collection. They usually cost between $40 and $50. However, I have seen them sell for as high as $250 on eBay.