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Bog Oak Mourning Brooch
Bog Oak Mourning Brooch
Bog Oak Mourning Brooch
Bog Oak Mourning Brooch

Bog Oak Mourning Brooch

Date1860 - 1899
Object NameBrooch
Mediumbog oak, metal
ClassificationsJewellery
Dimensions5.2 × 3cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1942.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS082174
About MeConical-shaped bog oak mourning brooch featuring three concentric circles of individually carved shamrock leaves and a small castle in the centre. The brooch fastens at the pack with a gold metal pin.


The etiquette for mourning jewellery during the 19th century was just as strict as that for clothes. While in deepest mourning, a dull, matte finish on jewellery was essential, and the wearing of a polished or shiny jewels was considered socially unacceptable as it could imply that the wearer was in fact coming out of the mourning period.

Bog oak (which is not always oak) is wood which has been preserved in a peat bog and possesses a dull and soft texture. Although bog oak was sourced across Britain, the majority came from Ireland where there was also a thriving business in bog oak jewellery production.
More About Me
Given its small size, an amazing piece of intricate wood carving. A dull finish was essential for mourning jewellery, with polished or shiny jewels considered socially unacceptable.