Starfish and sand dollars and the Christmas season go together for a few reasons. The star shape of this type of echinoderm is probably the most obvious, although this depiction of starfish or sea stars is only partially correct since starfish are not always 5-legged creatures. The crown of thorns sea star looks nothing like the starfish you see in my photo here. It has a more round shape with – you guessed it – spikes, or thorns all over it’s body.
Starfish Ocean Theme Ornaments by millhill
The sand dollar has a story (markings depict Christ’s death and birth) or legend (this link includes the poem with music) associated with it because of the 5 little “doves” that can be found inside. They are said to be doves spreading the gospel of Jesus. These bird shaped pieces are really the jaws which the sand dollar used, when it was living, to grind it’s food. My “sea cookie” sand dollar is broken and on day when I was photographing it one of the jaws fell out and I was able to get a photo of it. See it here.
So if you will be enjoying a beachy holiday or decorating your tree and home with beach related Christmas items, you might want to include the starfish and sand dollar.
Beach Themed Ornaments to Customize
Seashell Gifts & Greetings
Starfish Are Sea Stars
The Sand Dollar
A beautiful post Millhill. I love the legend of the sand dollar. I have many seashells on display in my home but have never thought of adding them to my Christmas tree decorations.
Thank you. It’s nice to hear from you. Happy New Year!