As most other reviewers, I have to say that the color of this rug is more drab olive green than the gold that is pictured. I anticipated this based on other reviews and still wanted the rug. I would prefer the "celery" green someone mentioned to the more drab olive green and muted colors that predominate in the rug. The pattern is beautiful; just be aware of the colors. I have two Persian-style rugs in red and was ready for something less vibrant. It may be unfair, but I unrolled this rug next to a more expensive, hand-knotted Persian rug, and the quality difference was evident. This rug isn't as silky feeling (both are wool) as the more expensive rug, and there is a noticeable difference in knots-per-inch. Having said this, this rug is a great value for the price and I'm keeping it. It looks brand new, didn't have any strange smells (mold or otherwise) and the shipping cost can't be beat. It does shed, but not by the vacuum bag full, and I think this is normal with wool rugs until after a number of regular vacuumings.