About Darach Órga
Darach Órga Jewellery is Daniel Hielscher - I grew up on the Sliabh Aughty mountains on the Galway/Clare border and now live just outside the low lying fields of Athenry. I have been surrounded by the wonderful bogs of this region and spent many a childhood day tripping over bits of wood poking out of the ground when going on fishing trips and exploring.
The jewellery you see is all made from bog oak and other woods sourced from these two regions on private lands which have been uncovered when land has been farmed. Every piece is unique and handmade at my home. Some pieces are wild, rough and rugged just like the bogs it came from while others have been harnessed and tamed as the fields that have replaced those bogs now.
Bog oak, a rare and unique material, has been utilised in various forms of craftsmanship for centuries. It is not only aesthetically appealing but also rich in historical and cultural significance. The process of transforming bog oak into jewellery involves meticulous craftsmanship, ensuring that each piece is distinct and carries its own story - you will see that each piece I create is different. It can not be the same as another as no tree is the same.
The formation of bog oak occurred over thousands of years, as oak trees become submerged in peat bogs across Ireland. This anaerobic environment prevents decay, allowing the wood to fossilise and develop a deep, rich colour that ranges from dark brown to black. The wood I source comes from different bogs so you will see variations in colour also. The density and durability of bog oak make it an ideal material for jewellery, providing both beauty and longevity. Studies indicate that bog oak can be over 5,000 years old, making it a remarkable testament to the passage of time and the natural world.
In addition to its visual appeal, bog oak jewellery carries a profound cultural significance. It serves as a connection to Ireland's rich heritage and history, often evoking a sense of nostalgia and pride among wearers. The use of locally sourced materials further emphasises the importance of sustainability and environmental consciousness in contemporary jewellery design.
Bog oak is not merely a material; it is a symbol of our Irish heritage, craftsmanship, and sustainability. By working with this wonderful material I hope to continue a long tradition and also preserve this material so it can continue to be admired for centuries to come.