Frequently asked questions.

DNA jewellery is personalised jewellery crafted from your unique genetic profile. At DesigNA, we extract STR (short tandem repeat) markers from a simple cheek swab, then translate that genetic fingerprint into a unique pattern of semi-precious stones set in fine jewellery. The result is a scientifically one-of-a-kind piece that belongs to you and you alone. You can read more about STR profiling at the Nature Scientific Reports.

With the exception of identical twins, every person's DNA profile is statistically unique. The probability of two unrelated individuals sharing the same STR profile across multiple loci is less than one in a billion. This means your DesigNA piece is, with extraordinarily rare exceptions, the only one of its kind that will ever exist — now or in the future.

Yes. Your sample is collected via a non-invasive cheek swab and processed by Complement Genomics Ltd, a UKAS ISO-accredited laboratory. Your genetic data is handled in full compliance with the UK GDPR and the Human Tissue Act 2004. It is never shared with third parties and is used solely to create your jewellery profile.

DesigNA necklaces start from £299. Every piece includes the DNA collection kit with prepaid return envelope, ISO-accredited laboratory analysis, expert handcrafting, a certificate of authenticity, and luxury gift packaging — making it remarkable value for something that is genuinely one of a kind.

Absolutely. You place the order, we send the collection kit, the recipient completes a simple cheek swab at home and returns it in the prepaid envelope — no laboratory visits needed. It makes an extraordinary gift for birthdays, anniversaries, Mother's Day, Valentine's Day, or Christmas, because no one else in the world can ever receive the same piece.

Once you place your order, the collection kit arrives within 2–3 working days. After we receive your swab, laboratory analysis and handcrafting take a further 7–14 working days. From order to delivery, most customers receive their completed piece within two weeks.

Traditional personalised jewellery — engraved names, birthstones, initials — can always be replicated. Anyone in the world can order the same engraved necklace. Your DNA profile cannot. DesigNA creates jewellery that is fundamentally, scientifically, irreversibly unique to one individual. It is the only form of personalisation that is impossible to copy.

Yes — and this is one of the most meaningful ways to wear one. Because your DNA profile is permanent and belongs to you alone, a DesigNA necklace carries your biological identity forward through generations. It is not just a piece of jewellery; it is a scientifically verifiable record of a person, preserved in fine materials.

Yes, with their consent. You can gift someone a necklace made from their own DNA — which makes it entirely, scientifically theirs — or you can choose to have it made from your own DNA as a deeply personal gesture. All we require is a completed consent form from the person whose DNA is being used, in accordance with UK Human Tissue Authority guidelines.

DesigNA necklaces are suited to any occasion where you want to give something genuinely meaningful: Valentine's Day, Mother's Day, birthdays, anniversaries, graduations, memorials, and Christmas. Because each piece is entirely unique and backed by real science, it carries a weight of meaning that no generic gift — however expensive — can match.

The necklace itself does not contain biological material. Rather, your unique DNA profile — a sequence of numerical markers derived from your genetic code through STR (short tandem repeat) analysis — is translated into a pattern of semi-precious stones. This means the piece represents your DNA in a permanent, wearable, and completely safe form. Your certificate of authenticity confirms the exact profile used.

Not at all. A buccal (cheek) swab is one of the most gentle and non-invasive methods of biological sample collection used in clinical and genetic testing. You simply rub a cotton-tipped swab against the inside of your cheek for around 30 seconds. There is no discomfort, no needles, and no specialist knowledge required.

Yes, with parental or guardian consent. A signed consent form must be included with the sample. For babies and young children who may find a cheek swab difficult, the cotton tip can be gently rubbed between the bottom lip and gum instead. Please refer to our FAQ page for full details on consent requirements for under-16s.

If the cotton tip is touched before sampling, the swab may be contaminated with external DNA, which can affect the quality of the sample. If this happens, please do not use that swab. Contact us at sales@mydesigna.co.uk and we will arrange a replacement kit free of charge.

Food, drink, and tobacco can leave residue in the mouth that may degrade or interfere with the DNA sample. We recommend avoiding anything other than water for one hour before collecting your swab, and rinsing your mouth with water immediately beforehand. This ensures the highest possible sample quality for laboratory analysis. The National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI) provides further reading on buccal swab best practices.

We recommend posting your sample on the same day or the next day after collection. Buccal swab samples are generally stable at room temperature for several days, but prompt posting ensures the best quality result and reduces any risk of degradation. Your kit includes a prepaid Royal Mail return envelope for convenience.

Your biological sample is processed solely for the purpose of generating your unique DNA profile. It is handled by Complement Genomics Ltd, our ISO-accredited laboratory partner, under strict compliance with the Human Tissue Act 2004 and UK GDPR. Your sample is not stored, sold, or shared with any third party.

DesigNA currently offers stones across five colour families: blues (Blue Lace Agate, Lapis Lazuli), reds (Garnet, Carnelian), yellows (Tigers Eye, Aragonite), purples (Amethyst), and greens (Green Agate, Jade Nephrite). Each stone is individually selected for quality and authenticity. You can learn more about gemstone grading at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).

There is no wrong choice. Many customers choose their stone based on colour preference, personal meaning, birth month, or a quality they wish to embody. Others choose based on the traditional healing properties associated with each gem. Your DNA profile provides the scientific uniqueness — your stone adds the personal intention. Browse the descriptions above and trust what feels right to you.

The metaphysical and healing properties described on this page are rooted in traditional crystal healing beliefs and ancient spiritual practices spanning thousands of years of human culture. They are not scientifically proven medical claims, and DesigNA does not present them as such. Crystal healing is a complementary practice and should not replace professional medical advice. For the cultural and historical context of gemstone traditions, the Gemological Institute of America offers excellent resources.

Each DesigNA necklace is handcrafted to your specific DNA profile and chosen stone combination, making it a permanent, bespoke creation. If you would like a second piece made with a different stone, you are welcome to order again — your DNA profile certificate is unique to you and the same profile will be used. Contact us to discuss options.

DesigNA is committed to working with suppliers who uphold ethical sourcing standards for their gemstones. We take the provenance of our materials seriously and expect our partners to comply with responsible trade practices in line with industry standards. If you have specific questions about sourcing, please contact us directly at sales@mydesigna.co.uk.