Butterfly Jewelry: Gifts from Nature

Have you ever heard of The Butterfly House? Located in Chesterfield, Missouri, it is a not-for-profit organization established in 1995. Its mission? "To increase awareness of the natural habitat in which butterflies thrive."

The 8,000 square foot Conservatory Garden is surrounded by 646 pieces of glass. Each section measures 6'x4', and weighs about 200 lbs. It soars 36' high at its highest point.

The Butterfly House opened in 1998, and In July, 2001, it officially became a division of the Missouri Botanical Garden, which has a reputation as a leader in education, research, and amazing horticultural displays. It is also known as the only AZA (Association of Zoos and Aquariums) member solely dedicated to insects.

Learn how to butterfly garden
Browse the Butterfly Directory
Take a Virtual tour of the Butterfly House

Butterflies have long captured my attention. When I was a girl, I'd place fuzzy caterpillars in empty jars with airholes in the lids. I'd fill the jar with grass, a stick, and assorted leaves. A small amount of water kept the jar from drying out, as it worked like a terrarium.

I only witnessed one butterfly squeezing out of its cocoon, and what a thrill that was!

One Valentine's Day, my husband bought me a necklace and matching earrings in a butterfly theme. He knows me well! Even my garden reflects my love for butterflies, with a set of windchimes in a bright enameled butterfly motif. I've planted perennials that attract butterflies, too, including Meadow Sage. Butterflies flit across the yard and keep me happy throughout the spring and summer months.