To mark World Oceans Day, Colombo Jewellery Stores (CJS) launched a limited-edition Whale Shark Pendant in partnership with marine biologist Dr. Asha de Vos and Oceanswell.
In celebration of World Oceans Day, Colombo Jewellery Stores (CJS) in partnership with Oceanswell, spearheaded by renowned marine biologist, Dr. Asha de Vos, have launched a silver Limited-Edition Whale Shark Pemdant. At the official launch, held on World Oceans Day at Colombo Jewellery Stores, special invitees and members of the media gathered for an informative presentation by Dr. Asha de Vos which highlighted the whale shark and focused on the importance of protecting Sri Lanka’s ocean ecosystems.
The Whale Shark Pendant joins a collection that has previously paid tribute to the Blue Whale, Dolphin, Sperm Whale, and Orca. Drawing inspiration from the whale shark’s gentle grace, majestic scale and distinctive markings, the Pendant serves as both a tribute to the species and a reminder of the importance of continued ocean conservation. Beyond jewellery, the partnership has also supported the publications of two educational magazines developed by Oceanswell, and awareness initiatives designed to inspire greater appreciation and protection of Sri Lanka’s extraordinary marine biodiversity.
Limited to just 100 individually numbered pieces, the Pendant marks the fifth species celebrated through this pioneering collaboration, which has combined fine jewellery with marine conservation since 2018. Priced at LKR 35,000, the limited-edition pendant has been made available for purchase from 8 June 2026. Through this initiative, CJS and Oceanswell invite the public to contribute to the protection of Sri Lanka’s marine ecosystems while celebrating the beauty of the ocean. Inspired by the whale shark—the world’s largest fish and one of the ocean’s most iconic species—the individually numbered sterling silver pendant has been created to raise awareness and support marine conservation efforts in Sri Lanka.
Oceanswell is a scientific research organisation that conducts essential research and uses storytelling, and education to raise awareness of Sri Lanka’s remarkable marine biodiversity. As with all conservation pendants created through the CJS – Oceanswell partnership, 100% of proceeds from the sale of the Pendant will help fund Oceanswell to support marine research, education, and conservation initiatives around Sri Lanka.
Conservation has been an integral part of the CJS story for many years. Through meaningful partnerships with leading conservation organisations, CJS has supported initiatives dedicated to protecting Sri Lanka’s extraordinary natural heritage, from elephant and leopard conservation programmes with the Wildlife and Nature Protection Society (WNPS) to pioneering marine research and education efforts with Oceanswell. These collaborations reflect a shared belief that thoughtful design and storytelling can inspire greater awareness, encourage meaningful action, and contribute to the preservation of the natural world. Now celebrating 104 years of excellence, Colombo Jewellery Stores (CJS) remains one of Sri Lanka’s most respected jewellery houses, renowned for its craftsmanship, exceptional coloured gemstones, diamonds, and commitment to design innovation. The Whale Shark Pendant continues this legacy, serving not only as a finely crafted collectible, but also as a symbol of ocean conservation and a reminder of the continued importance of ocean life conservation.
Speaking at the launch, Akram Cassim, Chief Executive Officer of Colombo Jewellery Stores, said: “At CJS, we believe jewellery can tell powerful stories and inspire meaningful action. Over the past eight years, our partnership with Dr. Asha de Vos and Oceanswell has demonstrated how design and conservation can come together to create lasting impact. The Whale Shark Pendant continues this journey, helping raise awareness and funds to protect the extraordinary marine life that surrounds our island.”
Commenting on the collaboration, Dr. de Vos stated: “The whale shark is an elusive giant that roams our oceans, inspiring wonder wherever it is encountered. Partnerships such as this help us get out to sea to document bits of their story and bring the stories back to shore to share with everyone.”
Through each piece, CJS and Oceanswell seek not only to celebrate the beauty of Sri Lanka’s oceans, but also to inspire meaningful conversations around the protection of the species and ecosystems that call them home. As with previous pieces in the collection, the Whale Shark Pendant is more than a piece of jewellery, it is a statement of support for marine conservation.
