If you’ve ever wondered who’s behind the beautifully detailed marine life jewellery at Big Blue, it’s time to meet the artist behind Big Blue, Roland St. John.
Born in Massachusetts in 1965, Roland has been captivated by nature since childhood. That early fascination eventually led him underwater—literally. As an experienced diver and underwater videographer for over 25 years, Roland has travelled the globe capturing footage of some of the ocean’s most breathtaking and endangered creatures.
Using his underwater footage as a reference, Roland sculpts lifelike and dynamic pieces that reflect the grace and movement of marine animals in their natural habitat. His detailed jewellery, bronze sculptures, and home décor items are more than just art—they're tributes to the beauty of the sea and calls to protect it.
Big Blue - Aquatic Gifts began in 1997 and now features over 100 unique styles, all handcrafted in the USA. From sterling silver sea turtles to bold bronze shark sculptures, every piece tells a story of the ocean.
Roland’s passion for marine conservation shines through in his work. He actively supports organisations like:
In 2009, Roland’s dedication was recognised when he was inducted into the Ocean Artists Society, founded by Wyland, Guy Harvey, and Bob Talbot—uniting artists to inspire global ocean conservation.
“We need to educate and connect people with nature so they can truly appreciate it. Only then will they begin to help protect it.” – Roland St. John
For Roland, the creative process starts underwater. Each dive is an opportunity to capture footage of animals like hammerhead sharks, sea turtles, or manta rays in their element. He carefully studies their motion, behaviour, and anatomy before heading to the studio.
Working primarily with tin, Roland draws a top-view sketch of the animal, cuts it from metal with a jeweller’s saw, then hammers and sculpts the shape by hand. Fine details like gills, eyes, and fins are added with burrs, files, and a soldering torch.
Once the original sculpture is complete, he creates a mould and begins the lost-wax casting process for both bronze and sterling silver pieces. Each item is hand-finished, resulting in a miniature masterpiece that celebrates marine life.
Creating ocean-inspired art isn’t just a career—it’s Roland’s life’s work. Each design invites you to celebrate the sea, carry a piece of it with you, and join a movement to protect what’s beneath the surface.
When you buy from Big Blue, you’re not only supporting an independent artist—you’re supporting a mission. You can also shop confidently knowing we stand by every product we make. Read more about our customer promise here:
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