How to buy Instrument making (Saz-sazi)

• Check the neck is straight and the joints are sound.
• Ask for a sound sample or video.
• Look at inlay and finish quality.

Typical materials: walnut-wood.

• Decorative-only instruments sold as playable.
• Factory instruments with added ornament.

A genuine Instrument making (Saz-sazi) piece should come with a named place of making in Iran (often isfahan, shiraz, tabriz) and a clear statement that it is handmade.

• Is it playable and set up?
• Which maker made it?
• Are the strings and skin included?

• Keep in a case with stable humidity.
• Loosen strings when storing for long periods.

• Avoid radiators, windows and damp rooms.

Ship in a hard case with the strings loosened.

This guide is educational. It cannot confirm that any particular object is genuine, old or valuable. For important purchases, ask an independent specialist. Read the full Instrument making (Saz-sazi) entry.