ALL butterflies that I use are farmed and not wild caught so that the natural populations of the butterflies are not being depleted by poachers. Through my art, this provides an opportunity for me to promote stewardship and conservation of each Butterfly and to educate people about the risks that many are facing.
The wings I use in my art pieces are purchased from a reputable dried bug retailer who has been in business for over 25 years. All of the butterfly wings are bred on farms all over the world. Whole communities actually raise and care for these beautiful winged friends of the earth. The specimens are used for education, inspiration, collectables and art and area exported all over the world. Not all of the butterflies bred on these farms are sold as specimens many are released into the wild to mate and maintain healthy species populations.
99% of the Wings I use are from imperfect or damaged specimens I have purchased that collectors can’t utilize due to a broken wing or antennae or leg. I can still use the broken wing for mosaic pieces and the other wings for my full pieces
Monarchs are a Species at Risk and are specially protected by the Canadian Ministry of Natural Resources under the Endangered Species Act (2007). Because of this, no Monarchs are used in any of art pieces. By simply planting milkweed in your gardens, you can help dramatically increase the Monarch population once again”. For more information on Monarch butterflies and how you can help preserve this species, visit www.MonarchWatch.org
My hope is that the wearer of my pieces will learn more about their new butterfly friend, and want to share their environment, where it comes from and how others can help to conserve it’s land and preserve the butterfly’s heritage. People everywhere will stop you and ask you about your piece, so it will be so empowering and fun for you to be able to share your winged friend’s hope for future generations to enjoy.
To Purchase your Own Butterfly and spread the word about Butterfly Farming and your specific beautiful butterfly species, shop here on my website at Debra’s Divine Designs
What a fascinating look into the world of butterfly farming! Who knew? I’m sharing your blog with my many nature loving friends.
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Thanks Denise. That means alot to me.
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I have a Madagascan Sunset Moth ring and absolutely adore it!
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they are one of my favorities Val
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This is SUPERB, Deb. Well done!
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Thanks Bearsie!
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I loved learning about where your butterflies come from and how conscientious of where they come from. Your pieces are truly beautiful, and you can see that every piece you make has a special story behind it.
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Thank, you Bev. They truly do have their own unique stories.
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Very cool!
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Lovely jewelry handmade by a talented and responsible artist!
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Thank you Wanda
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Gorgeous butterfly jewelry and it’s nice to know the butterflies have a story behind it’s beauty!!!
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Thanks Michele
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Wonderful not only are you creating beauty, but also spreading the word about the precious butterflies!
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Thanks Leslie. Conservation is a big part of my discussions at shows.
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