DNA jewellery is completely safe. No genetic data is stored, shared, or used for any purpose other than creating your unique jewellery design. The cheek swab process is pain-free, non-invasive, and takes under two minutes.
What Happens to Your DNA Sample?
Once your cheek swab arrives at the laboratory, your DNA is extracted and profiled using a process called gel electrophoresis. This maps the unique pattern of your STR (short tandem repeat) loci — the same technique used in forensic science and paternity testing.
After profiling is complete, your physical sample is destroyed in line with UK data protection regulations. DesigNA does not retain, store, or share your genetic material with any third party.
Is the Cheek Swab Safe?
Yes. The cheek swab is entirely non-invasive. You rub a sterile cotton swab on the inside of your cheek to collect buccal cells — the same cells that naturally shed from the lining of your mouth every day. There is no blood, no needles, and no discomfort.
The process is safe for adults of all ages and takes under two minutes to complete at home. Full instructions are included in your DesigNA collection kit.
Is My Genetic Data Private?
DesigNA takes your genetic privacy extremely seriously. Here is exactly what happens to your data:
- Your DNA profile is used solely to generate your unique jewellery design
- Your sample is destroyed after profiling — it is never stored long-term
- Your genetic data is never sold, shared, or used for research
- All processing is carried out under strict UK GDPR and data protection law
- You can read our full privacy policy on the Your DNA & Privacy page
Who Handles My DNA Sample?
Your sample is processed by a certified UK laboratory partner. All laboratory staff operate under strict confidentiality agreements. The lab is accredited and complies with all relevant UK health and safety legislation covering biological sample handling.
Can DNA Jewellery Reveal Health Information?
No. The DNA profiling technique DesigNA uses — STR analysis — does not reveal any health, ancestry, or predictive genetic information. STR profiling only identifies the lengths of specific repeated sequences in your genome. It tells us nothing about your health, traits, or family history.
This is fundamentally different from consumer DNA tests such as 23andMe or AncestryDNA, which sequence much larger portions of your genome. DesigNA’s process is narrowly focused on producing your unique visual profile — nothing more.
What Do I Need to Consent To?
Before your sample is processed, you will complete a short consent form confirming that you are providing your own DNA voluntarily and that you understand how it will be used. You can review the full details on our consent page before ordering.
Is DNA Jewellery Safe for Children?
DesigNA jewellery is currently designed for adults. If you would like to create a piece using a child’s DNA, a parent or guardian must provide written consent on the child’s behalf. Please contact us before ordering if this applies to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does DesigNA store my DNA?
No. Your physical DNA sample is destroyed after your profile has been generated. We do not store genetic material.
Can someone clone me from the DNA sample?
No. Human cloning from a cheek swab is not scientifically possible in any consumer or commercial context. The minute quantity of cells in a cheek swab is not sufficient for cloning, and this is not a realistic concern.
What if I change my mind after sending my sample?
If your sample has not yet been processed, you can contact us to request it be destroyed. Once profiling is complete, the physical sample is already destroyed as standard. Contact us as soon as possible if you have concerns.
Ready to create your own unique piece? Browse the DesigNA collection and order your kit today.