Antique Victorian Irish Bog Oak Bracelet | Rare Shamrock Carved Mourning Jewellery c.1870

A wonderful and fairly rare antique Victorian bracelet made from immaculately preserved Irish bog oak, dating to circa 1870.

An unusually bold and substantial design, the bracelet is formed from beautifully turned round bog oak links, each intricately carved with concentric detailing. At the front is a large, domed central medallion decorated with a finely carved shamrock motif, flanked by two smaller shamrock-decorated links. Further round links continue around the bracelet, combining the characteristic ribbed and concentric carving that makes Victorian bog oak jewellery so distinctive.

There are eight substantial carved medallions in total, creating a wonderfully sculptural bracelet with a striking presence on the wrist.

Bog oak is a naturally dark, fossilised wood that was particularly prized in Ireland during the Victorian period. Its deep black, matte appearance made it especially appropriate for mourning and sentimental jewellery, while Irish motifs such as shamrocks, harps and Celtic-inspired designs were also enormously popular. This bracelet beautifully combines both traditions, and its dramatic scale means it works just as well today as an unusual statement piece.

Despite its substantial appearance, the bracelet remains wonderfully wearable. It measures approximately 6½ inches around the inside at rest and stretches to fit over the hand. Because the bracelet is elasticated, it is best suited to a smaller to medium wrist; on a smaller wrist the elastic will remain concealed, whereas on a larger wrist some of the elastic cord may become slightly visible between the links.

DETAILS
MATERIALS: Irish bog oak
MEASUREMENTS: Approximately 1-1/4" (3.5 cm) wide at the front, graduating to approximately 3/4" (2 cm) towards the back. Inner circumference approximately 6½" (16.5 cm) at rest; stretches to fit over the hand.
WEIGHT: 22.3 grams
DATE: High Victorian, circa 1870
CONDITION: Excellent antique condition with remarkably little age-related wear. The bog oak is beautifully preserved, with the carving remaining crisp and well defined throughout. No chips, cracks, dents or other notable flaws. The bracelet has been professionally restrung on strong black elastic cord for continued wear.
------
At Mercy Madge we offer quality antique and vintage jewellery sourced in Great Britain. All of our pieces are professionally cleaned and polished so they are ready to wear and enjoy or give as a gift.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
* We offer free worldwide shipping on all purchases
* Returns - you can return your item for a refund for any reason. Just get in touch within 3 days of receiving your order and return it within 7 days.
* All gemstones have been tested and verified using a Presidium Gemstone Tester. All measurements and carat weights given are approximations.
* Our photographs have been taken in extreme close up to show you every tiny detail. This often means that any flaws or damage which you can see on the photos will be invisible when viewed normally with the eye. This can also mean that the item can appear larger on the screen than it is in person, so please be sure to read our written description to double check all sizes and dimensions.
* Buying a gift? – your item will arrive gift wrapped in a custom Mercy Madge jewellery box. Please note, unless otherwise stated antique boxes in our photos are for display only and are not included in the purchase.