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Qom (Ghom)-Handmade Silk Rugs of Iran
Today, Qom (also spelled Ghom) is renowned for producing the highest quality silk rugs in Iran, offering the greatest variety of designs and sizes currently available on the market. Since the 1930s, when master weavers from Kashan established workshops in Qom to weave fine handmade carpets using kork wool (a high-grade wool taken from the neck of lambs), the city has become internationally recognized for its exceptional craftsmanship and refined, intricate designs. Over time, Qom weavers transitioned from kork wool to pure silk, creating some of the most luxurious and collectible carpets in the world.
Types of Designs
Qom rugs are typically made with high-quality silk and woven using the asymmetrical (Persian) knot, which allows for precise detail and complex patterns. Common designs include: Floral motifs with central medallions Prayer rugs (mihrab designs) Boteh (paisley) motifs Panel compositions The Tree of Life Garden or Paradise patterns Many of the most prestigious workshops sign their carpets with the city name (Ghom) followed by the family or workshop name, typically woven into the top border of the rug. These signatures serve as marks of authenticity and prestige.
Unique Qom Features
Qom silk rugs are known for their crisp, detailed designs and shorter pile, distinguishing them from silk rugs produced in other regions such as Kashmir. The typical color palette includes ivory, a range of red and navy tones, turquoise, various shades of yellow, and occasionally green. In recent years, however, the palette has shifted toward softer, pastel hues, reflecting evolving design trends and changing market preferences. Despite their delicate appearance, these rugs are remarkably durable. However, owners should take care to immediately clean spills, especially sugary liquids, to prevent staining or permanent damage, as silk can absorb and retain moisture quickly. The average Qom silk rug features a knot density of 700,000 to 1,000,000 knots per square meter, with high-end pieces reaching 1,200,000 to 2,000,000 knots per square meter. Knot count is a major factor in determining a rug’s detail, quality, and value.
Exclusive Carpets
Qom silk carpets are among the most expensive Persian rugs on the market. Rugs produced in famous workshops or with exceptionally high knot counts can command significantly higher prices. It is essential to purchase these carpets from a reputable dealer who can provide certification of authenticity, knot count, and guarantee of origin. As both decorative art and a long-term investment, Qom silk rugs offer excellent value. Their production is limited, and in the past decade, the value of Ghom silk rugs has doubled, making them a favored acquisition among collectors and connoisseurs alike.
