Whenever I read about stuff like this I am always amazed as to who was the first one that came up with the idea. “Hey - lets see if this snail stuff can be used to dye with!” But I suppose back then they would experiment with everything to make the most use of it as they could.
Would the use of something like a snail violate any of the food laws? Or can the Jews still use such things as long as it isn’t for food? (Like they can’t eat pork - but can play football!?)
The prohibition against sea creatures that lack scales and fins is focused on deriving any nourishment from it. You can touch, etc, just not eat it.