Sea Sponge

Adriatic Sea sponges, also known as Silk sponges, have been known for its uncompromising quality since ancient times. Unique micro-climate at the Adriatic Sea enables the sponge to grow slowly and develop a dense body structure full of fine, even microscopic pores. Once you moist the sponge in water, it absorbs the water and becomes super soft. The slow growing sponge body is also the reason that the Silk sponges are so – silky. The smooth surface of the sponge feels like pure silk on your skin.

Antiseptic and hypoallergenic
 
They are naturally loaded with iodine which works as a germ killer. Included with other sea minerals and natural enzymes, Adriatic Sea sponges have beneficial effect on the skin. It’s recommended even for the most sensitive skin prone to allergies and irritations. These sponges are the best choice for delicate facial skin and baby skin. They can be used for all kinds of hygienic purposes, for washing, gentle peeling or as a makeup remover.

In 1896 on the small Croatian island of Krapanj, Tanfara family started to harvest wild sea sponges using just long fishing spears with 2 to 3 men as helpers on the boat. Harvesting was usually done in boats not more than 6 meters long. Methods were archaic with no mechanical engines, using just the men’s strength and the forces of nature.

Harvesting with long fishing spears went on until just after WWII when they started learning to dive with full traditional heavy diving gear while. This diving gear consisted of a diving suit made of impregnated canvas, weights, helmet, an air pump and shoes weighing 85 kg.

Later, they set about acquiring new more modern diving gear and making a new diving boat that could have a crew of up to 8 men. Harvesting is being done along the whole Adriatic coast all the way to Libya. A year’s harvest was from 300 to 500 kg of sponges and the selling of raw sponges was done all around the world.

During 2002, the now traditional activity is taken over by Roko Tanfara. He modernizes the business with two new boats, setting up a sponge refinery using a special oxidation method.