Buying Carpets in Azerbaijan: A Complete Guide
How to buy authentic Azerbaijani carpets. Learn about prices, quality checks, bargaining, and how to avoid fakes in Baku.
Buying Carpets in Azerbaijan: A Complete Guide
Azerbaijani carpets are UNESCO-recognized masterpieces. But buying one requires knowledge to avoid overpaying or getting a fake.
Types of Carpets 🧵
1. Handmade (Əl toxunması)
- Made: Entirely by hand on a loom.
- Time: Can take months to years.
- Price: 500 - 10,000+ AZN depending on size and knot density.
- Quality: Highest. Each is unique.
2. Machine-Made (Maşın toxunması)
- Made: Factory-produced.
- Price: 100 - 500 AZN.
- Quality: Lower, but still decorative.
How to Tell the Difference:
- Flip it over: Handmade carpets have a clear, detailed pattern on the back. Machine-made backs are blurry or have a fabric backing.
- Fringe: Handmade fringes are part of the carpet (woven in). Machine-made fringes are sewn on.
Regional Styles 🎨
Azerbaijan has distinct carpet-weaving regions:
- Quba: Geometric patterns, vibrant colors.
- Shirvan: Dense knots, intricate designs.
- Karabakh: Bold medallions, rich reds.
- Tabriz: Persian-influenced, floral motifs.
Where to Buy 🛒
1. Carpet Museum Shop (Recommended)
Location: Baku Carpet Museum
Pros: Guaranteed authentic, certificate included, fixed prices (no bargaining).
Cons: Most expensive option.
2. Old City Shops
Pros: Atmospheric, can bargain.
Cons: Quality varies, risk of fakes.
3. Yasil Bazaar Area (Carpet Sellers)
Pros: Cheapest if you bargain well.
Cons: Highest risk of fakes or misrepresentation.
Prices (2025 Estimates) 💰
| Size | Handmade | Machine-Made |
|---|---|---|
| Small (1m x 1.5m) | 500 - 1,500 AZN | 100 - 300 AZN |
| Medium (2m x 3m) | 2,000 - 5,000 AZN | 300 - 600 AZN |
| Large (3m x 4m+) | 5,000 - 15,000+ AZN | 600 - 1,200 AZN |
Antique Carpets: Can cost 20,000 - 100,000+ AZN.
Bargaining Tips 🤝
- Start at 40-50% of the asking price.
- Walk away: If they don't budge, leave. They often call you back with a better offer.
- Pay in cash: You can negotiate a better price.
- Buy multiple: If buying more than one, ask for a bulk discount.
Quality Checks ✅
Before buying, check:
- Knot Density: More knots per square inch = higher quality. Count them on the back.
- Symmetry: Patterns should be symmetrical.
- Colors: Natural dyes fade evenly. Chemical dyes can look harsh.
- Smell: Handmade wool carpets have a natural wool smell.
- Certificate: Ask for a certificate of authenticity (especially for expensive pieces).
Shipping & Customs 📦
- Shipping: Most shops can arrange international shipping (cost varies by destination).
- Customs: Carpets are duty-free in most countries as "handicrafts," but check your country's rules.
- Export Permit: For antique carpets (100+ years old), you need an export permit from the Ministry of Culture. Modern carpets don't need this.
Summary
- Best Quality: Carpet Museum Shop.
- Best Value: Bargain hard at Old City shops.
- Red Flags: Too cheap, seller is pushy, no clear pattern on the back.
Invest wisely! 🧵