Why Are “Kashmiri Carpets” So Cheap on Amazon and Other Marketplaces? (Hint: They are Not Authentic Kashmiri Carpets!) »

Six reasons for not buying from Amazon like market places »

1. The Art of Making a Real Kashmiri Carpet

First, it’s essential to understand what goes into a real Kashmiri carpet to appreciate its value. Authentic Kashmiri carpets are hand-knotted with painstaking precision. Skilled artisans, often generations deep in the craft, tie each knot individually to create intricate patterns.

This process can take months or years, depending on the size and complexity of the design. And since we’re working with high-quality natural materials like silk or wool, the results are incredibly durable and beautifully vibrant rugs that can last for generations.

When you purchase a genuine Kashmiri carpet from an artisan or a dedicated showroom, you’re paying for:

• Weeks (or months) of skilled labor: Each knot is tied by hand, often amounting to hundreds of thousands of knots in a single rug.
• Premium materials: True Kashmiri carpets are made from 100% pure Merino wool, natural Mulberry silk, or a blend, using Azo-free, chrome, and eco-friendly dyes that won’t fade easily.
• Heritage and craftsmanship: These carpets often carry patterns and techniques passed down through centuries, making each piece a true collector’s item.

This is why genuine Kashmiri carpets are priced higher than machine-made alternatives — they’re not just decor; they’re art.

 2. What You’re Buying on Amazon and Other Marketplaces?

So, if genuine Kashmiri carpets are made with such care and expertise, how are there so many “Kashmiri” carpets available for a fraction of the price online? The truth is, that these are often mass-produced replicas that use Kashmiri-inspired designs but don’t share the same quality, materials, or craftsmanship.

Most “Kashmiri” carpets on Amazon are:

• Machine-made: These carpets are usually produced in factories where machines print or tuft designs that resemble traditional patterns. This process is quick, and efficient, and lacks the individual care that goes into hand-knotting.
• Synthetic materials: Many are made from polyester, nylon, or polypropylene instead of natural fibers. While these materials may make the rug look bright initially, they don’t have the same depth, durability, or feel as natural fibers. Read out the comprehensive guide on synthetic material rugs.
• Patterned after real designs but without authenticity: Some of these carpets mimic Kashmiri motifs, but they aren’t woven with the same expertise or artistic touch. Instead, the patterns are printed or machine-tufted in bulk.

When you’re paying a low price for a “Kashmiri” carpet on Amazon, you’re not paying for the art or heritage — you’re paying for a synthetic, machine-made imitation that lacks the essence of an authentic piece.

 3. Common Misleading Terms to Watch Out For

It’s easy to fall for marketing terms that make these mass-produced rugs sound luxurious.

Words like “handmade,” “hand-tufted,” or “Kashmiri-inspired” are sometimes used to suggest an authenticity that isn’t there.

Here’s what to look for:

• Hand-tufted: This is different from hand-knotted. Hand-tufted rugs are made by using a tool to punch yarn through a canvas, which is quicker than knotting by hand. They can be nice rugs, but they don’t carry the same longevity or value as a hand-knotted Kashmiri carpet.
• Kashmiri design or Oriental style: If it doesn’t explicitly say “hand-knotted” or specify Kashmir as the origin, it’s likely a replica.
• Machine-woven: This indicates that the carpet was made entirely by machine, which allows for mass production and lower costs, but it won’t have the authenticity of a genuine hand-knotted carpet.

If you’re looking for a true Kashmiri carpet, these terms should raise a red flag.

 4. The Price Difference Explained

With all the above points in mind, the price difference between authentic Kashmiri carpets and mass-produced imitations is clearer. Let’s break it down:

• Labor costs: True Kashmiri carpets are labor-intensive, with each piece taking weeks/months of handwork from highly skilled artisans. Machine-made rugs, however, are mass-produced in a fraction of the time with minimal labor costs.
• Materials: Genuine Kashmiri carpets are made from natural fibers like wool and silk, which are durable and luxurious. Cheaper rugs use synthetic fibers, which are much less expensive and less durable.
• Artistic value: An authentic Kashmiri carpet represents a long-standing tradition and artistry. It’s an investment, often gaining sentimental and financial value over time, unlike a mass-produced carpet that may need replacing in just a few years.

When you buy a Kashmiri carpet at a low price online, you’re likely getting a machine-made, synthetic imitation.

Authentic Kashmiri carpets have a higher price point, but they offer quality, durability, and cultural value that’s worth the investment.

 5. How to Identify a Genuine Kashmiri Carpet

If you’re set on owning a real Kashmiri carpet, it’s essential to know how to distinguish between authentic and imitation products. Here are some tips:

• Check the Knot Density: Authentic Kashmiri carpets are hand-knotted with high knot density. You should be able to see the individual knots on the back of the carpet. A higher knot density means greater durability and finer detail.
• Inspect the Material: Genuine Kashmiri carpets are made from wool, silk, or a wool-silk blend. Synthetic materials like polyester and polypropylene are clear indicators of a mass-produced rug.
• Feel the Texture: Wool and silk have a rich, soft feel, while synthetic fibers often feel plasticky or overly smooth.
• Look for Certification or Seller Reputation: Trusted retailers often provide certification of authenticity for Kashmiri rugs. Visiting a dedicated carpet showroom, like ours at the World Trade Centre in Mumbai, is an excellent way to see, touch, and compare the carpets for yourself. Each rug that is shipped from our showroom is accompanied by a Rug Assure Certificate.

 6. Why Invest in an Authentic Kashmiri Carpet?

A true Kashmiri carpet is more than just a floor covering. It’s a piece of art that tells a story and reflects generations of tradition. When you invest in an authentic Kashmiri rug, you’re getting:

• Longevity: Real Kashmiri carpets are made to last for decades, if not generations, when properly cared for.
• Uniqueness: Each carpet is one-of-a-kind, crafted by hand with unique designs and vibrant colors.
• Sustainability: Natural fibers like wool and silk are more environmentally friendly than synthetic materials.
• Value: Unlike mass-produced carpets, an authentic Kashmiri rug can increase in value over time, making it a cherished heirloom.

In our Mumbai showroom, we proudly stock over 2,000 carpets and offer custom-made options so you can find the perfect piece.

Each carpet we sell is made with care and craftsmanship, reflecting our passion and commitment to this centuries-old art form.

Why Choose a Handmade, Hand-Knotted Kashmiri Rug?

Kashmiri rugs are the epitome of craftsmanship, taking weeks (sometimes months) to complete because each knot is tied individually. These rugs reflect tradition, artistry, and exceptional quality, qualities that you simply won’t find in synthetic carpets.

Unique Craftsmanship: Every Kashmiri rug is a masterpiece, featuring intricate designs and vibrant colors. These rugs are crafted by skilled artisans, making each one truly one-of-a-kind.

Eco-Friendly and Ethical Production: Handmade Kashmiri rugs are made from sustainable materials like wool and silk. By choosing one, you’re supporting both the environment and fair-trade practices that value craftsmanship.

Health Benefits: Wool naturally resists dust mites and helps regulate humidity, which means Kashmiri rugs are not just beautiful — they also contribute to a healthier indoor environment.

Certified Rugs: Every rug that leaves our Mumbai showroom is accompanied by an authentification certificate. Yes, we are proud of our products and hence go to long lengths to ensure quality and customer satisfaction.

Final Words »

If a deal on a “Kashmiri” carpet seems too good to be true on Amazon or other marketplaces, it probably is.

While these cheaper options may offer a temporary decor solution, they can’t replace the quality, durability, and beauty of an authentic hand-knotted Kashmiri rug.

When you’re ready to bring a true piece of art into your home, consider visiting a dedicated carpet showroom or connecting with trusted sellers who understand and respect the craft.

At our showroom in the World Trade Centre, Mumbai, we’re always here to help you find a genuine Kashmiri carpet that will be a cherished part of your home for years to come.