We are open by appointment only, email or call us to book your appointment today!
{"id":8936053702878,"title":"What is My Rug Worth?","handle":"what-is-what-is-my-rug-worth","description":"\u003cp\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/files\/ChambersTradingPost_480x480.jpg?v=1548713221\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere at Nizhoni Ranch Gallery we get our fair share of inquiries about Navajo rugs people have inherited from family members or picked up at a thrift show or estate sale.  Most stories begin with something like \"my grandmother bought a weaving from a trading post while vacationing in the Southwest\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main question we are asked is \"what is it worth?\"   The answer is:  it depends...  In valuing weavings we suggest keeping the following things at the forefront:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize, Condition, Complexity of Design, Age, Tightness of weave, Types of dyes used (natural vs aniline) and provenance.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eYes, size matters - a lot.  Big rugs are rare which of course increases value.  Past and present weavers typically weave small to medium size rugs.  One reason is limited space.  The larger the rug, the larger the loom.  Many Navajo live in homes that have low ceilings and low square footage, which makes it nearly impossible for many weavers to take on large rugs.  Another is the amount of time it takes to weave large rugs.  Large rugs can take a year or more to complete.  Weaver's payday typically come when they sell their rug.  Which means fewer weavers then and now take on large rugs.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/files\/navajo_weavers_l_large.jpg?v=1549481508\" alt=\"Navajo Weavers at loom\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition of a Navajo Rug will of course affect the value.  Pay attention to any damage,  if it is clean,  if there is any fading (one side is lighter than the other), if the wool colors have runs, stains, etc. There are talented rug restores out there, yet some issues just cannot be fixed.  Navajo rugs that have serious damage may not be worth the original cost or even the cost to restore it.  One rug restoration company we highly recommend is: \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/enverfromdenver.com\/\" title=\"Enver From Denver website\"\u003eEnver From Denver. \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAge\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEarly 1800's to 1950\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNavajo rugs before the 1950's we consider historic or antique.  Navajo weavings started to become popular at about the turn of the century. Navajo Textiles from 1800's have a much higher value - and they don't have to be in perfect condition.  Here is an \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=9cGlS05233Q\"\u003eepisode from Antiques Roadshow.  \u003c\/a\u003eWorth the watch and this weaving is worth up to 7 figures.  This episode brought us all to tears here at NRG.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=9cGlS05233Q\" title=\"Lt and his amazing rags to riches story\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Astonishing Antique Roadshow Find - 1st Phase Ute Chief Blanket!\" src=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Clb5DqoXEAAGgJ7_300x.jpg?v=1634329812\" width=\"530\" height=\"353\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1940 to 1970 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn mid 1900 the Southwest was all the rage.  The Navajo keyed in on this and began weaving rugs for tourists.  A perfect and inexpensive souvenir that could easily fit in a suitcase to take home.  Navajo weavers would set up along side tourist routes.  Few tourists could resist a beautiful piece of art.  The weavings were small in size, designs were simple yet colorful, not always finely woven and not with the best wool.  These weavings typically have a moderate value.  Not necessarily a valuable family heirloom, but a warm reminder of who passed it down.\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/products\/antique-navajo-weaving-yei-pcitorial-ght-2304?_pos=5\u0026amp;_sid=dc24e5f36\u0026amp;_ss=r\" title=\"Antique Navajo Weaving: Yei Pictorial : GHT 2304\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/contemporary\/products\/gallup-throw-navajo-weaving-lilly-tracey-3431-15-x-19-13-x-17-copy\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/files\/Throw-rug-navajo-3432_9693a4b5-73e9-499d-9bbc-7f0c086b0dd6_480x480.jpg?v=1748891004\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/contemporary\/products\/gallup-throw-navajo-weaving-lilly-tracey-3431-15-x-19-13-x-17-copy\"\u003eThrow Navajo Weaving : 3432 : 14\" x 23\" (1'2\" x 1'11\") : $700\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/products\/antique-navajo-weaving-yei-pcitorial-ght-2304?_pos=5\u0026amp;_sid=dc24e5f36\u0026amp;_ss=r\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1970 to Present \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eToday's \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/contemporary\" title=\"Nizhoni Ranch Gallery Contemporary weavings\"\u003eContemporary Navajo rugs\u003c\/a\u003e, can range from \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/contemporary\/under-500\" title=\"Nizhoni Ranch Gallery contemporary rugs under $500\"\u003eUNDER $500 \u003c\/a\u003eup to many thousands of dollars. The number of Navajo weavers working today is dwindling. Many Navajo are not learning this sacred Navajo weaving tradition, as it is a very time consuming, the pay is inconsistent and requires discipline in learning the art form.   Below is a weaving from our Exclusive Navajo Churro Collection that represents some of the best weavings of today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/pages\/churro-collection-2001-gallery\" title=\"Getzwiller Collection of Contemporary Navajo Weavings 1975-2000\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/burntwater-navajo-rug-elsie-bia-1779-medium\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/files\/churro-1779-elsie-bia-burntwater-navajo-rug_f9d344ba-dbd3-48c3-bfbf-c2abb8553a44_480x480.jpg?v=1748891303\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/burntwater-navajo-rug-elsie-bia-1779-medium\"\u003eBurntwater Navajo Rug : Elsie Bia : Churro 1779 : 50\" x 72\" (4'2\" x 6') : $ 9,000\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComplexity\/Tightness \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/pages\/navajo-rug-descriptions\" title=\"Navajo Rug Styles Descriptions\"\u003eThere are 28+ Styles of Navajo Rugs\u003c\/a\u003e. Some Styles are more difficult to weave than others. Complexity and tightness of the weave affect the value. Generally speaking, the tighter and finer the weave, the more valuable the piece. Teec Nos Pos is generally considered one of the most intricate design.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/teec-nos-pos-navajo-rug-geraldine-phillips-churro-1574\" title=\"Teec Nos Pos, Geraldine Phillips, Churro # 1574\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"extra large Teec Nos Pos Navajo rug for sale\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/products\/very-large-teec-nos-pos-navajo-rug-churro-1574_large.jpg?v=1535408665\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/teec-nos-pos-navajo-rug-geraldine-phillips-churro-1574\"\u003eNavajo Churro Collection,  \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/teec-nos-pos-navajo-rug-geraldine-phillips-churro-1574\" title=\"Teec Nos Pos, Geraldine Phillips, Churro # 1574\"\u003eTeec Nos Pos,  Geraldine Phillips,  6\"1\" x 12'1\", Churro wool, Circa 2015  Geraldine won Best of Category for large rugs in 2015.  Churro # 1574\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/teec-nos-pos-navajo-rug-geraldine-phillips-churro-1574\"\u003e, $16,000\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNatural Dyes vs Aniline \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUsing natural dyes vs aniline dyes (commercial chemical dye).  Natural dyes add value because of the extra time it takes to hand dye the wool.  Hand dying wool with natural dyes can take almost as much time as weaving the rug.  See a previous blog we wrote on natural dyes:  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/blogs\/news\/dyeing-art\" title=\"Blog on using natural dyes\"\u003eAn Organic Experience\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/small-weavings\/products\/chinle-navajo-rug-helen-bia-churro-1703-26-x-36-22-x-3?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=a44e9753d\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/files\/Churro-1703-helen-bia-chinle-navajo-rug_3_480x480.jpg?v=1748632545\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/small-weavings\/products\/chinle-navajo-rug-helen-bia-churro-1703-26-x-36-22-x-3?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=a44e9753d\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eChinle : Navajo Rug : Helen Bia : Churro 1703 : 26\" x 36\" (2'2\" x 3') : $ 4,000\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProvenance \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProvenance is the history and ownership of the weaving.  When the history of a weaving can be verified it takes on a whole new value.  Again we go back to the Antique Road Show Episode with the well known Ute Chiefs blanket.  The provenance (proof) went all the way back to Kit Carson.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=WJw2qCnhea0\" title=\"PBS Antique Roadshow Ute First Phase Blanket\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"http:\/\/www-tc.pbs.org\/prod-media\/antiques-roadshow\/__sized__\/Images\/Tucson_20010609_01\/200101A48\/IMG0002-crop-c0-39__0-43-676x380.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=WJw2qCnhea0\" title=\"Antique Roadshow Ute Blanket\"\u003e First Phase Ute Blanket, circa 1850,  PBS Antique Roadshow \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Bottom Line \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eIf you want to get an accurate value on a weaving,  contact a certified appraiser that specializes in Native American art, or better yet Navajo weavings.  Nizhoni Ranch does not do appraisals, as we are not certified appraisers.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\" href=\"http:\/\/www.collectorsguide.com\/jcaballero\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","published_at":"2025-06-02T11:42:28-07:00","created_at":"2025-06-02T11:12:25-07:00","vendor":"Nizhoni Ranch Gallery","type":"","tags":["Articles","no-price-showing"],"price":0,"price_min":0,"price_max":0,"available":true,"price_varies":false,"compare_at_price":null,"compare_at_price_min":0,"compare_at_price_max":0,"compare_at_price_varies":false,"variants":[{"id":46985701654750,"title":"Default Title","option1":"Default Title","option2":null,"option3":null,"sku":null,"requires_shipping":true,"taxable":true,"featured_image":null,"available":true,"name":"What is My Rug Worth?","public_title":null,"options":["Default Title"],"price":0,"weight":0,"compare_at_price":null,"inventory_quantity":1,"inventory_management":"shopify","inventory_policy":"deny","barcode":null,"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_allocations":[]}],"images":["\/\/www.navajorug.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/What_is_my_rug_worth.jpg?v=1748889668"],"featured_image":"\/\/www.navajorug.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/What_is_my_rug_worth.jpg?v=1748889668","options":["Title"],"media":[{"alt":null,"id":36373380858078,"position":1,"preview_image":{"aspect_ratio":1.427,"height":646,"width":922,"src":"\/\/www.navajorug.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/What_is_my_rug_worth.jpg?v=1748889668"},"aspect_ratio":1.427,"height":646,"media_type":"image","src":"\/\/www.navajorug.com\/cdn\/shop\/files\/What_is_my_rug_worth.jpg?v=1748889668","width":922}],"requires_selling_plan":false,"selling_plan_groups":[],"content":"\u003cp\u003e  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch1\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/files\/ChambersTradingPost_480x480.jpg?v=1548713221\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003c\/h1\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eHere at Nizhoni Ranch Gallery we get our fair share of inquiries about Navajo rugs people have inherited from family members or picked up at a thrift show or estate sale.  Most stories begin with something like \"my grandmother bought a weaving from a trading post while vacationing in the Southwest\".\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe main question we are asked is \"what is it worth?\"   The answer is:  it depends...  In valuing weavings we suggest keeping the following things at the forefront:\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize, Condition, Complexity of Design, Age, Tightness of weave, Types of dyes used (natural vs aniline) and provenance.\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eSize\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/span\u003eYes, size matters - a lot.  Big rugs are rare which of course increases value.  Past and present weavers typically weave small to medium size rugs.  One reason is limited space.  The larger the rug, the larger the loom.  Many Navajo live in homes that have low ceilings and low square footage, which makes it nearly impossible for many weavers to take on large rugs.  Another is the amount of time it takes to weave large rugs.  Large rugs can take a year or more to complete.  Weaver's payday typically come when they sell their rug.  Which means fewer weavers then and now take on large rugs.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/files\/navajo_weavers_l_large.jpg?v=1549481508\" alt=\"Navajo Weavers at loom\"\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch6\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/h6\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eCondition\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe condition of a Navajo Rug will of course affect the value.  Pay attention to any damage,  if it is clean,  if there is any fading (one side is lighter than the other), if the wool colors have runs, stains, etc. There are talented rug restores out there, yet some issues just cannot be fixed.  Navajo rugs that have serious damage may not be worth the original cost or even the cost to restore it.  One rug restoration company we highly recommend is: \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca href=\"http:\/\/enverfromdenver.com\/\" title=\"Enver From Denver website\"\u003eEnver From Denver. \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e \u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cspan\u003eAge\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cspan\u003e \u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eEarly 1800's to 1950\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNavajo rugs before the 1950's we consider historic or antique.  Navajo weavings started to become popular at about the turn of the century. Navajo Textiles from 1800's have a much higher value - and they don't have to be in perfect condition.  Here is an \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=9cGlS05233Q\"\u003eepisode from Antiques Roadshow.  \u003c\/a\u003eWorth the watch and this weaving is worth up to 7 figures.  This episode brought us all to tears here at NRG.  \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=9cGlS05233Q\" title=\"Lt and his amazing rags to riches story\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"Astonishing Antique Roadshow Find - 1st Phase Ute Chief Blanket!\" src=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/cdn\/shop\/products\/Clb5DqoXEAAGgJ7_300x.jpg?v=1634329812\" width=\"530\" height=\"353\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1940 to 1970 \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn mid 1900 the Southwest was all the rage.  The Navajo keyed in on this and began weaving rugs for tourists.  A perfect and inexpensive souvenir that could easily fit in a suitcase to take home.  Navajo weavers would set up along side tourist routes.  Few tourists could resist a beautiful piece of art.  The weavings were small in size, designs were simple yet colorful, not always finely woven and not with the best wool.  These weavings typically have a moderate value.  Not necessarily a valuable family heirloom, but a warm reminder of who passed it down.\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/products\/antique-navajo-weaving-yei-pcitorial-ght-2304?_pos=5\u0026amp;_sid=dc24e5f36\u0026amp;_ss=r\" title=\"Antique Navajo Weaving: Yei Pictorial : GHT 2304\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: left;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/contemporary\/products\/gallup-throw-navajo-weaving-lilly-tracey-3431-15-x-19-13-x-17-copy\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/files\/Throw-rug-navajo-3432_9693a4b5-73e9-499d-9bbc-7f0c086b0dd6_480x480.jpg?v=1748891004\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/contemporary\/products\/gallup-throw-navajo-weaving-lilly-tracey-3431-15-x-19-13-x-17-copy\"\u003eThrow Navajo Weaving : 3432 : 14\" x 23\" (1'2\" x 1'11\") : $700\u003c\/a\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/products\/antique-navajo-weaving-yei-pcitorial-ght-2304?_pos=5\u0026amp;_sid=dc24e5f36\u0026amp;_ss=r\" alt=\"\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e1970 to Present \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eToday's \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/contemporary\" title=\"Nizhoni Ranch Gallery Contemporary weavings\"\u003eContemporary Navajo rugs\u003c\/a\u003e, can range from \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/contemporary\/under-500\" title=\"Nizhoni Ranch Gallery contemporary rugs under $500\"\u003eUNDER $500 \u003c\/a\u003eup to many thousands of dollars. The number of Navajo weavers working today is dwindling. Many Navajo are not learning this sacred Navajo weaving tradition, as it is a very time consuming, the pay is inconsistent and requires discipline in learning the art form.   Below is a weaving from our Exclusive Navajo Churro Collection that represents some of the best weavings of today.\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/pages\/churro-collection-2001-gallery\" title=\"Getzwiller Collection of Contemporary Navajo Weavings 1975-2000\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/burntwater-navajo-rug-elsie-bia-1779-medium\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/files\/churro-1779-elsie-bia-burntwater-navajo-rug_f9d344ba-dbd3-48c3-bfbf-c2abb8553a44_480x480.jpg?v=1748891303\" alt=\"\" style=\"float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/burntwater-navajo-rug-elsie-bia-1779-medium\"\u003eBurntwater Navajo Rug : Elsie Bia : Churro 1779 : 50\" x 72\" (4'2\" x 6') : $ 9,000\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e \u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eComplexity\/Tightness \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/pages\/navajo-rug-descriptions\" title=\"Navajo Rug Styles Descriptions\"\u003eThere are 28+ Styles of Navajo Rugs\u003c\/a\u003e. Some Styles are more difficult to weave than others. Complexity and tightness of the weave affect the value. Generally speaking, the tighter and finer the weave, the more valuable the piece. Teec Nos Pos is generally considered one of the most intricate design.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/teec-nos-pos-navajo-rug-geraldine-phillips-churro-1574\" title=\"Teec Nos Pos, Geraldine Phillips, Churro # 1574\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"extra large Teec Nos Pos Navajo rug for sale\" src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/products\/very-large-teec-nos-pos-navajo-rug-churro-1574_large.jpg?v=1535408665\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/teec-nos-pos-navajo-rug-geraldine-phillips-churro-1574\"\u003eNavajo Churro Collection,  \u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/teec-nos-pos-navajo-rug-geraldine-phillips-churro-1574\" title=\"Teec Nos Pos, Geraldine Phillips, Churro # 1574\"\u003eTeec Nos Pos,  Geraldine Phillips,  6\"1\" x 12'1\", Churro wool, Circa 2015  Geraldine won Best of Category for large rugs in 2015.  Churro # 1574\u003c\/a\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/churro-collection\/products\/teec-nos-pos-navajo-rug-geraldine-phillips-churro-1574\"\u003e, $16,000\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eNatural Dyes vs Aniline \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eUsing natural dyes vs aniline dyes (commercial chemical dye).  Natural dyes add value because of the extra time it takes to hand dye the wool.  Hand dying wool with natural dyes can take almost as much time as weaving the rug.  See a previous blog we wrote on natural dyes:  \u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/blogs\/news\/dyeing-art\" title=\"Blog on using natural dyes\"\u003eAn Organic Experience\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\n\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/small-weavings\/products\/chinle-navajo-rug-helen-bia-churro-1703-26-x-36-22-x-3?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=a44e9753d\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003e\u003cimg src=\"https:\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1207\/9128\/files\/Churro-1703-helen-bia-chinle-navajo-rug_3_480x480.jpg?v=1748632545\" alt=\"\" style=\"margin-bottom: 16px; float: none;\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.navajorug.com\/collections\/small-weavings\/products\/chinle-navajo-rug-helen-bia-churro-1703-26-x-36-22-x-3?_pos=1\u0026amp;_sid=a44e9753d\u0026amp;_ss=r\"\u003eChinle : Navajo Rug : Helen Bia : Churro 1703 : 26\" x 36\" (2'2\" x 3') : $ 4,000\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\n\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cdiv style=\"text-align: start;\"\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/div\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProvenance \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProvenance is the history and ownership of the weaving.  When the history of a weaving can be verified it takes on a whole new value.  Again we go back to the Antique Road Show Episode with the well known Ute Chiefs blanket.  The provenance (proof) went all the way back to Kit Carson.  \u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=WJw2qCnhea0\" title=\"PBS Antique Roadshow Ute First Phase Blanket\"\u003e\u003cimg alt=\"\" src=\"http:\/\/www-tc.pbs.org\/prod-media\/antiques-roadshow\/__sized__\/Images\/Tucson_20010609_01\/200101A48\/IMG0002-crop-c0-39__0-43-676x380.jpg\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003ca href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=WJw2qCnhea0\" title=\"Antique Roadshow Ute Blanket\"\u003e First Phase Ute Blanket, circa 1850,  PBS Antique Roadshow \u003c\/a\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp style=\"margin-bottom: 0px;\"\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Bottom Line \u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\"\u003eIf you want to get an accurate value on a weaving,  contact a certified appraiser that specializes in Native American art, or better yet Navajo weavings.  Nizhoni Ranch does not do appraisals, as we are not certified appraisers.  \u003c\/span\u003e\u003ca style=\"font-size: 0.875rem;\" href=\"http:\/\/www.collectorsguide.com\/jcaballero\"\u003e\u003c\/a\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e"}

What is My Rug Worth?

Product Description

  

Here at Nizhoni Ranch Gallery we get our fair share of inquiries about Navajo rugs people have inherited from family members or picked up at a thrift show or estate sale.  Most stories begin with something like "my grandmother bought a weaving from a trading post while vacationing in the Southwest".

The main question we are asked is "what is it worth?"   The answer is:  it depends...  In valuing weavings we suggest keeping the following things at the forefront:

Size, Condition, Complexity of Design, Age, Tightness of weave, Types of dyes used (natural vs aniline) and provenance.

Size
Yes, size matters - a lot.  Big rugs are rare which of course increases value.  Past and present weavers typically weave small to medium size rugs.  One reason is limited space.  The larger the rug, the larger the loom.  Many Navajo live in homes that have low ceilings and low square footage, which makes it nearly impossible for many weavers to take on large rugs.  Another is the amount of time it takes to weave large rugs.  Large rugs can take a year or more to complete.  Weaver's payday typically come when they sell their rug.  Which means fewer weavers then and now take on large rugs.  

Navajo Weavers at loom


Condition 
The condition of a Navajo Rug will of course affect the value.  Pay attention to any damage,  if it is clean,  if there is any fading (one side is lighter than the other), if the wool colors have runs, stains, etc. There are talented rug restores out there, yet some issues just cannot be fixed.  Navajo rugs that have serious damage may not be worth the original cost or even the cost to restore it.  One rug restoration company we highly recommend is:  Enver From Denver. 
  
Age 
Early 1800's to 1950
Navajo rugs before the 1950's we consider historic or antique.  Navajo weavings started to become popular at about the turn of the century. Navajo Textiles from 1800's have a much higher value - and they don't have to be in perfect condition.  Here is an episode from Antiques Roadshow.  Worth the watch and this weaving is worth up to 7 figures.  This episode brought us all to tears here at NRG.  

Astonishing Antique Roadshow Find - 1st Phase Ute Chief Blanket!
1940 to 1970 
In mid 1900 the Southwest was all the rage.  The Navajo keyed in on this and began weaving rugs for tourists.  A perfect and inexpensive souvenir that could easily fit in a suitcase to take home.  Navajo weavers would set up along side tourist routes.  Few tourists could resist a beautiful piece of art.  The weavings were small in size, designs were simple yet colorful, not always finely woven and not with the best wool.  These weavings typically have a moderate value.  Not necessarily a valuable family heirloom, but a warm reminder of who passed it down.

 

1970 to Present 
Today's Contemporary Navajo rugs, can range from UNDER $500 up to many thousands of dollars. The number of Navajo weavers working today is dwindling. Many Navajo are not learning this sacred Navajo weaving tradition, as it is a very time consuming, the pay is inconsistent and requires discipline in learning the art form.   Below is a weaving from our Exclusive Navajo Churro Collection that represents some of the best weavings of today.



 

Complexity/Tightness 
There are 28+ Styles of Navajo Rugs. Some Styles are more difficult to weave than others. Complexity and tightness of the weave affect the value. Generally speaking, the tighter and finer the weave, the more valuable the piece. Teec Nos Pos is generally considered one of the most intricate design.  
extra large Teec Nos Pos Navajo rug for sale
Navajo Churro Collection,  Teec Nos Pos,  Geraldine Phillips,  6"1" x 12'1", Churro wool, Circa 2015  Geraldine won Best of Category for large rugs in 2015.  Churro # 1574, $16,000


Natural Dyes vs Aniline 

Using natural dyes vs aniline dyes (commercial chemical dye).  Natural dyes add value because of the extra time it takes to hand dye the wool.  Hand dying wool with natural dyes can take almost as much time as weaving the rug.  See a previous blog we wrote on natural dyes:  An Organic Experience



Provenance 

Provenance is the history and ownership of the weaving.  When the history of a weaving can be verified it takes on a whole new value.  Again we go back to the Antique Road Show Episode with the well known Ute Chiefs blanket.  The provenance (proof) went all the way back to Kit Carson.  

 First Phase Ute Blanket, circa 1850,  PBS Antique Roadshow 


The Bottom Line 

If you want to get an accurate value on a weaving,  contact a certified appraiser that specializes in Native American art, or better yet Navajo weavings.  Nizhoni Ranch does not do appraisals, as we are not certified appraisers.  


Name:*
Email:*
Message: *
* Required Fields

Related Products