How can I tell if an oriental rug is wool or silk?

Question

I know this rug is old and great quality. My Aunt gave it to me and I would like to know how to know something. She was ill when they were giving to the family.

Answer 1

easy way is to get it wet, just a little water will make wool smell. its a fairly strong smell (like a wet sheep) but it goes away as soon as it dries.

Silk is very rairly used in carpets however. Most likely it is wool.