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Victorian Irish Bog Oak Shamrock Drop Earrings circa 1880

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During the Mid-Victorian period the mania for black jewelry reached a new high. Starting originally as the color of mourning, it made the leap to be fashionable all on its own. The pinnacle of this was beautiful Jet (a form of coal that was lightweight and could be carved to a high polish). This material was very rare and expensive, coming from one location in England- Whitby. As a result of the demand new materials were developed to give the look of jet without the cost. The Irish answer to this was bog oak. Bog wood is what results from ancient oaks sunk into swamps for thousands of years. The wood emerges a dark black and it hard enough to carve into incredible details.

These earrings, circa 1870-80 is a wonderful example of this material. Beautifully carved with a combinations of shamrocks and flowers. Lightweight and easily wearable, they are a wonderful conversation piece and bit of Irish history from the 19th Century.

There is a matching brooch available as well- message for a price on the set!

Dimensions: Earrings measure 2.5 inches long.

Condition: In excellent antique condition. Very little fading or wear. Ear wires are unknown base metal. Additional photos and videos are available upon request.

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