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. 

What is this bog oak and is it old?

Irish bog oak is a type of wood that comes from oak trees that have been preserved in the peat bogs of Ireland for thousands of years. I estimate the wood I use to between 3 and 6 thousand years old!! The anaerobic environment of the bog prevents the normal decay process, allowing the oak wood to be preserved intact. The preservation process makes bog oak particularly dense and stable, which contributes to its durability and suitability.

Why do you do this?

Growing up in the wilds of the west of Ireland surrounded by this wonderful material and being exposed to alternative lifestyles has left an impact on me. I am going back to a time of my youth when everything was so much more relaxed and simpler. The process of creating these pieces is a form of meditation.
Also, my father used to make fantastic and crazy sculptures out of bog oak and other woods. I guess now that he has passed I am continuing what he started in a way.

How do I care for the jewellery?

To get the most out of your jewellery we recommend that you handle it with care - some pieces can be fragile. Please also keep it away from water and dampness if possible and store it in a dry place. Sharp objects or surfaces can mark them. We finish the jewellery with some linseed oil and if the item has lost some of its spark you can use this or similar to freshen up the colours. Use a soft, dry, lint-free cloth and do not use harsh chemicals or cleaners, as they can damage the finish of the wood.