Is DNA jewellery ethical?
Journal · Ethics
Our position on consent, data protection, and what happens to your sample, set out in plain English with the relevant UK law named.
Consent
Every collection kit ships with a short consent form. We do not analyse a sample until that form is signed by the person whose DNA it is, or by a legal guardian for minors. Gifting a DesigNA piece always involves the recipient. The kit is the gift, and the recipient decides whether to send the sample.
What we read and what we do not
We read a small set of polymorphic markers chosen because they are highly variable between individuals and clinically uninformative. We do not read disease risk markers, ancestry markers, or any region of the genome with health or behavioural relevance. The output is a design sequence, not a report.
Data protection
Sample handling, processing, and storage are governed by UK GDPR and the Human Tissue Act 2004. Specifically:
- The physical sample is destroyed once the laboratory analysis is complete.
- The digital marker data is encrypted at rest, stored only for as long as needed to fulfil your order, and then deleted.
- We do not sell, share, or use the data for any purpose other than producing your necklace.
- You can request deletion of your data at any time, before or after delivery.
The laboratory
All analysis is performed at a UK based, laboratory. The laboratory is contractually bound to our data protection requirements.
Manufacturing
The necklaces are handcrafted by our partner jeweller in Birmingham. Materials are sourced from UK and EU suppliers and we do not knowingly work with conflict stones. Sterling silver is 925 hallmarked. Gold pieces use 9ct hallmarked gold, with gold filled spacers and a gold plated extender.
If you change your mind
You can cancel for a full refund any time before production begins, no questions asked. Once your sample has been processed and the necklace is in production, we cannot refund the laboratory and craft costs, but we will always do what is fair if your circumstances change.
See how it works
A four part series on DNA jewellery
The lab side, the design side, the craft side, and the certificate. Sent over a week. No discount, no pressure.
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Written by Oliver Sullivan, founder of DesigNA. Updated May 2026.
Further Reading
DNA Jewellery
What Happens After You Order: The Sampling Kit, Step by Step
Wondering what happens after you order? Here is exactly how the DesigNA sampling kit works, from the moment it lands to the moment you post it back.
August 4, 2026
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Who Is the Founder of DesigNA?
Who is the founder of DesigNA? Oliver Sullivan, through Double Strand Ltd. Here is who runs the brand and how every necklace is really made.
July 31, 2026
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9 Precious Stones or Something Else? The DNA Necklace Materials FAQ
Does a DesigNA necklace use nine precious stones? Here is exactly what your DNA necklace is made from, and how your genetic code shapes it. From £299.
July 28, 2026
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How Long Does a DNA Necklace Take? Your Order to Delivery Timeline
How long does a DNA necklace take from order to delivery? Here is the full stage by stage UK timeline, so you can order gifts with real confidence.
July 24, 2026
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DNA Necklace Care: Silver, Gold and Pearl, Looked After Properly
Simple DNA necklace care steps for silver, gold and pearl pieces, so your one of one design stays bright for years to come.
July 20, 2026
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DNA Jewellery
DNA Necklace: The Real One, Explained
Searching for a genuine DNA necklace? Compare real genetic jewellery to look alike designs and see why DesigNA’s UK made necklace is the trusted choice.
July 15, 2026
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