Oh, so we never really saw what happened to the element necklaces in Princess Twilight Sparkle Pt 2? But they are part of the elements, right? So what if the elements we one being that "saw" through the gems? Well if that being was dying when the gems were removed, than maybe the tree could save it by transforming it into a filly with a golden coat and a crystal mane?

Tell me if you want to do it.