Introducing the Wildlife Jewels Oceans Gems™ Green Tourmaline the Sea Turtle Gown!

This extraordinary creation is born from an enchanting encounter with a majestic green sea turtle in Hawaii and is deeply inspired by the poignant story of kelp, purple sea urchins, and sunflower sea stars, shedding light on the alarming state of our oceans. This stunning gown is designed to showcase the enchanting beauty of marine life while shedding light on the threats they face due to human activities. It is an integral component of the Wildlife Jewels® educational fine art program and is featured at diverse conservation events and art gallery exhibitions.

The Story:

California's Kelp forests are vanishing, affecting over 800 marine species and even endangering gray whales and their young, who seek refuge in these underwater havens. Kelp, a versatile algae, holds potential as biofuel and even aids in reducing methane emissions from cows. However, pollution, overfishing, and a devastating marine heatwave have led to a drastic 75% reduction in Southern California's kelp, disrupting the entire ecosystem.

Sunflower sea stars, the natural predators of purple sea urchins, have dwindled due to the sea star wasting disease, making way for the unchecked proliferation of these urchins, which now devour the remaining kelp. This imbalance threatens marine life and underscores the urgent need for preservation efforts.

The Gown:

The Oceans Gems Green Tourmaline the Sea Turtle Gown, a testament to nature's beauty and fragility, mirrors the vibrant colors and intricate patterns of sea life. Crafted from eco-sustainable materials like English cotton bobbinet and organic cotton satin, it features meticulous appliqué work, capturing the essence of purple sea urchins, sunflower sea stars, and the green sea turtle. Its design pays homage to the grace of ocean kelp, serving as both a visual masterpiece and a wearable work of art.

The Fine Art:

The artist initially painted the “Green Tourmaline the Sea Turtle”, “Purple Sea Urchin”, and “Sunflower Sea Star” with bold colors and intricate details on canvas before transforming the artwork into applique to adorn the gown.

This gown stands not just as a symbol of elegance but as a call to action. Through its intricate beauty, it amplifies the urgent plea to protect our oceans and the invaluable marine life residing within them.