Persian rugs aren’t just rugs. They’re stories woven into threads, passed down through generations, and laid out under your feet like a cultural map. You don’t just step on a Persian rug—you step into a world of artistry, history, and heart. And with the many types of Persian Rugs available, each with its own personality, color scheme, and soul, there’s a whole universe to explore.
In this guide, we’ll walk through some of the most beloved Persian Rug types, their regional roots, the materials that make them special, and the design motifs that tie them all together. Whether you’re eyeing something bold like a Heriz or something delicate like a Qom, we’ll help you figure out what suits your space. Along the way, we’ll also touch on how to identify the authentic stuff and how to pick the perfect one for your room.
So, settle in. Let’s unroll some rugs and dive deep into the world of Persian Rug styles.
There’s something undeniably magical about Persian rugs. Maybe it’s the color combinations that somehow look bold and graceful at the same time. Maybe it’s the rich heritage packed into every knot. Or maybe it’s the way a single rug can completely shift the mood of a space, like a well-placed soundtrack in a movie.
The types of Persian Rugs we see today often follow patterns and designs that have existed for hundreds of years. And yet, they never feel outdated. They carry a sense of tradition while blending seamlessly into modern interiors. That’s not easy to pull off, but Persian Rug types do it effortlessly.
Whether it’s a floral medallion from Kashan or geometric lines from Heriz, there’s an understated brilliance in the way these rugs feel both rooted and alive.
There are rugs. And then there are Persian rugs. The difference? Depth. Persian Rug styles aren’t about decoration; they’re about expression. Each knot, each thread, and each curve has a purpose. Many other rugs are machine-made or follow trends. But the types of Persian Rugs hold onto tradition like a favorite family recipe.
Their patterns often carry symbolic meaning—gardens of paradise, protective motifs, or reflections of city architecture. They’re also hand-knotted, which means someone literally spent months (sometimes years) making one by hand. That kind of dedication? You can feel it.
And if you’re shopping with us at Rug Expo, you’ll see the difference immediately. We pride ourselves on offering Persian Rug types that speak volumes—quietly, of course.
Tabriz rugs are kind of like the overachievers of the rug world. They’re known for their detailed, precise patterns and wide variety of designs. You’ll often spot central medallions, repeating florals, and scenes that look almost like paintings.
Crafted in northwestern Iran, Tabriz rugs often feature a rich blend of colors—ivory, blues, reds, and sometimes even gold. The knot count on these can be incredibly high, which makes the designs pop with near-photographic clarity. These are perfect for formal living spaces or places where you want the rug to do most of the talking.
In our Rug Expo collection, Tabriz styles are always a favorite among those who appreciate detail and craftsmanship that speaks without shouting.
Kashan rugs feel like they belong in palaces. They often feature that iconic central medallion, flanked by ornate floral motifs that look hand-drawn. Originating from central Iran, these rugs tend to lean into soft reds, navy blues, and beiges.
What sets Kashan rugs apart is their perfect symmetry. Everything feels balanced, centered, and just right. They frequently use wool with touches of silk, which gives the designs a light shimmer in the right light. Talk about elegant.
If you’re going for something traditional but refined, Kashan is your go-to.
Qom rugs are like jewelry for your floors. They’re often smaller in size but incredibly detailed. These come from the city of Qom and are famous for their silk fibers and compact knot density.
Think of Qom rugs as delicate masterpieces. They typically use colors like ivory, sky blue, and rose, and the designs lean heavily on garden themes or religious iconography. Because of their silk base, Qom rugs have a natural sheen that’s hard to ignore.
These are best displayed in places where they won’t face heavy foot traffic. You don’t walk on a Qom rug; you admire it.
Isfahan is known as a cultural gem in Iran, and its rugs are no different. These are some of the finest Persian Rug styles you can find, combining high-quality wool and silk with a high knot count.
Their patterns are meticulous—intricate arabesques, vines, medallions, and garden scenes are all common. The colors are usually soft and regal: blues, reds, and creams.
These rugs are often used as statement pieces and are especially popular in homes that lean more toward classical or elegant décor. Isfahan rugs don’t just sit in a room—they elevate it.
If Persian Rug styles had personalities, Heriz would be the rugged adventurer. These rugs come from the northwest and are known for their durability and bold geometric patterns.
Unlike the more delicate Qom or Isfahan rugs, Heriz rugs are thick and sturdy. Their bold lines and sharp angles create a dynamic look, often in earthy reds and blues. Perfect for high-traffic areas or casual spaces, they bring warmth and strength to any room.
Many people shopping for rugged yet artistic Persian Rug types go straight for Heriz. They don’t disappoint.
Nain rugs have this quiet grace about them. They’re woven in central Iran and are known for their high knot density and subtle color schemes. Picture creams, light blues, and beiges blending softly.
Many Nain rugs feature silk highlights woven into fine wool, which adds texture and depth. The motifs are often floral but not overwhelming. These rugs whisper rather than shout.
If you’re decorating a serene or minimalist space, Nain rugs bring peace and poise in the most charming way.
Mashhad rugs feel deep. Emotionally and visually. They’re usually large, feature curving floral patterns, and lean heavily on rich reds and deep blues. Made in northeastern Iran, these rugs often use wool and have a sturdy, comfortable feel underfoot.
You’ll often see a central medallion surrounded by flowing vine or leaf motifs. They feel like they were designed to anchor a room, grounding everything else around them.
At Rug Expo, Mashhad rugs are popular in larger spaces or open-concept homes where their grandeur can really shine.
Wool is the bread and butter of Persian rug making. It’s warm, soft, and durable, which makes it a practical base for both busy homes and cherished heirlooms. High-quality Persian wool comes from sheep that graze in high altitudes, giving it a rich texture.
The types of Persian Rugs that use wool are often the most versatile. They can be bold or soft, formal or relaxed. They also tend to age beautifully, developing character over time.
Whether it’s Heriz or Kashan, wool keeps these rugs grounded—literally.
Silk adds a layer of elegance that’s hard to beat. Used either alone or mixed with wool, silk gives Persian Rug styles a sheen and softness that feel incredibly rich.
Silk is delicate, so rugs made entirely from it (like many Qom styles) are best placed where they’ll be admired rather than walked on daily. The upside? They practically glow in the light. The detail you can get from silk weaving is off the charts.
Silk isn’t for everyone—but for those who want that extra sparkle, it delivers.
Cotton might not get the same applause as wool or silk, but it plays a big role. It’s often used in the foundation—the warp and weft—providing structure and balance.
Many Persian Rug types use cotton as the underlayer, allowing the design to shine while the rug stays strong. It doesn’t sound glamorous, but without it, the rug wouldn’t hold up. And that makes it pretty important in our book.
The medallion is a classic. Usually centered, it anchors the whole rug like a sunburst. Found across many Persian Rug styles, this motif can be simple or jaw-droppingly intricate.
It adds a regal touch and helps draw attention inward. Whether it’s part of a Tabriz or Isfahan rug, the medallion becomes a natural conversation starter. It’s like the eye of the rug, always watching, always impressing.
You’ll often find medallions paired with corner motifs or symmetrical framing that brings the whole design together seamlessly.
Persian Rug types often echo nature’s beauty. Garden motifs represent paradise—literally. Floral vines, tree branches, lotus blooms—they all tell a story of life and balance.
Especially in Qom and Kashan designs, the flowers feel alive. It’s like spring was frozen in time and turned into fiber. Some rugs even follow an entire garden layout, with walkways, water features, and plant beds imagined through patterns.
It’s these touches that make Persian Rug styles so emotionally rich and visually stunning.
You can feel the difference in a real Persian rug. It’s in the weight, the texture, the irregularities that show a human touch. One big tell? Knot density. The tighter the knots, the finer the design.
Real Persian rugs are always hand-knotted. No machines, no shortcuts. You’ll often find thousands of knots per square inch in finer rugs. If the back of the rug mirrors the front, that’s a good sign.
Also, check the fringes; they’re usually woven into the rug’s base, not sewn on later like in factory-made versions.
Authentic Persian Rug types often use natural dyes derived from plants, insects, or minerals. These dyes age well, softening over time but never fading into dullness.
Look for slight variations in color—a natural “abrasheh” effect that shows hand-dyeing. If the colors are too consistent or bright, they may be synthetic.
At Rug Expo, we carefully examine each piece in our Rug Appraisal Service to confirm the authenticity of dyes and techniques.
Certain types of Persian Rugs work better in modern spaces, while others belong in more traditional settings. Heriz rugs, with their bold lines, bring a rustic edge to clean, contemporary rooms. On the other hand, Isfahan or Nain rugs, with their fine patterns, suit ornate or classic décor.
If your space is minimal, a Persian rug adds soul. If your space is already ornate, the rug enhances it. It’s a win either way. We’ve helped many clients through our Rug Cleaning Service make older rugs sparkle again in brand-new settings.
Consider how much traffic the rug will face. A Qom silk rug in a busy hallway? Probably not ideal. But a Heriz in the living room? Perfect. Also, look at room size. A too-small rug can look lost, while an oversized one can dominate.
We often help customers match their rug size with function through our Rug Cleaning Service and Rug Pet Stain Removal Service, especially when wear and spills happen.
Don’t forget to check out our Clearance Rugs section for high-quality pieces at amazing prices—sometimes, the perfect match is also the best bargain.
The types of Persian Rugs are as diverse as they are beautiful. Each rug carries a piece of its region, its weaver, and its cultural history. From the rugged charm of Heriz to the royal detail of Qom, there’s a piece for every home, every taste, and every story.
At Rug Expo, we’re proud to share that story with you. Whether you’re browsing our collection of Oriental Rugs, caring for your investment with our Rug Cleaning Service, or seeking expert advice on value, we’re here to help.
Persian Rug styles aren’t just beautiful—they’re alive. And when you find the right one, it’ll feel less like a purchase and more like finding a long-lost friend. The kind you’ll never want to roll up and put away.
