Third Phase

Navajo rugs are between 1860 and 1880 saw the addition of stepped or serrated diamonds of color to the center and ends of the wide stripes.  In this phase the center of the blanket featured a full diamond, with quarter diamonds at the corners and half diamonds in the middle of the border bands. 

Fourth Phase

These weavings made from 1870 through the early years of the twentieth century, were actually products of the Transitional Period.  In this phase, the diamond motifs became larger and more elaborate; often overtaking the black and white stripes as primary design elements so all collectors can not recognize this as a distinct phase. 

Modern Day Trends

In modern time communication between Navajo reservation areas has been increased. There are also remarkable changes in the weaving style which are differentiated from region to region. To bring uniformity in weaving rugs new trends are set; Navajo wool is being sent to a commercial plant to be processed into wool then returned to the weavers. The weavers then dye these rugs with natural plant or vegetable dyes. Now days, most of the Navajo rugs are with fine weave and lighter weave so that it can be seen more as tapestries to hang on wall.

References

• http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Navajo_rug
• http://www.antiquequiltdating.com/Navajo_Weaving.html
• http://www.navajorugsblankets.com/history.htm