19th century carved bog oak jewellery

Bog oak and other bog timbers originate in up to 10 metres deep, that were formed from forests where the natural growth had been overtaken by peat-forming plants from which the bogs were created, and which preserved the trunks and main branches of trees. The woods became very dark, almost like coal, stained by the tannins dissolved in the acidic water. Bog wood represents the early stages in the fossilisation of the wood, with further stages ultimately forming lignite and coal over a period of many millions of years. Bog wood is traditionally associated with Ireland but is also found in England and Scotland. Bog oak was popular in the 19th century for decorative jewellery and other small items, and a souvenir trade based in Dublin using bog wood was active during that time.