Frequently Asked Questions

 

What is Bog Oak? 

Bog oak trees are what remains of the ancient oak forests that once covered Ireland. They are only found under a bog. Sometimes up to 20 feet deep.

 

How old is Bog Oak?

Bog oak is between 3000 and 10,000 years old, it originates from the period following the ice age. The bog oak I work with is from the bog of Roseberry in Newbridge, County Kildare in the east of Ireland and it has been dated by The School of Archaeology and Paleontology Department in Queens University Belfast as 956 B.C. Plus or minus 9 years. Reference #Q10554. The sample yielded 147 growth rings when measured.

 

Why is it Black? 

Bog oak has transmuted through a reaction with the acidic peat over time and the anaerobic (lack of Oxygen). It is a semi-fossil therefore it is no longer wood. 

 

How long does it take to dry?

Because it is water logged (saturated) it can take up to 3 years to dry thoroughly. I like working it when it is wet and again when it reaches a relative humidity of 10% to 12%.