Definition: usually from Ireland, wood that has been fossilized in peat marshes or bogs so that it turns hard and black or very dark brown in color; can be actual oak, or fir, pine, yew or other types of wood; was used for jewelry at least from the early 1800s, but became popular in the mid-19th century, especially after 1852, when techniques to mass-mold and decorate it (applying hydraulic or heated pressure to the dried wood) were invented; although used for mourning jewelry, as an economic substitute for jet, it was also worn to support Irish crafts, with pieces often carved or stamped with Gaelic motifs like harps or shamrocks; more elegant articles might be studded with pearls or gold (see photo, More Images)
Also Known As: bogwood
Example: Links carved in the shape of leaves augmented the polished - but still slightly woody - texture of the bog oak bracelet.