Ordering Process
Step 1
Upon receiving an order on our website, I promptly initiate the process of preparing your DNA collection kit. These kits are carefully assembled and typically include a first-class prepaid envelope for return via Royal Mail, two breastmilk storage bags, a pipette, sweetie, and detailed instructions. Please be advised that the delivery of these kits may take up to 7 working days. Should you require urgent delivery, kindly reach out to me before placing your order.
Once you have received the kit, I highly recommend thoroughly reviewing the provided instructions before proceeding with the return process. Ensuring that all contents are clearly labelled and securely sealed is of utmost importance.
When you are ready to send back the completed kit, you may conveniently deposit it into the nearest Royal Mail post box, thereby avoiding the need to queue at the post office. However, if you prefer added peace of mind, you have the option to upgrade the delivery service. This is particularly advisable if you are working with limited breastmilk supply or if you are including additional items such as cremation ashes, hair, or umbilical cord, among others. I kindly request that you refrain from sending the last remnants of any precious inclusions.
Under normal circumstances, the delivery of your breastmilk back to me typically takes 2-3 working days. However, during peak periods like Mother's Day or Christmas, there might be slight delays due to Royal Mail's increased workload.
Step 2
Upon receipt of your breastmilk, the preservation process commences, marking the beginning of my careful procedures. Firstly, I will notify you via email (the email address you supply at checkout) to confirm the safe arrival of your breastmilk. As a precaution, please check your spam folder if you believe you should have received communication from me.
For the preservation of breastmilk, I utilise my tried and tested breastmilk preservation powder, a method that ensures the utilisation of all components of your breastmilk while maintaining its natural and unique colour. It is essential to highlight that this preservation technique is the one I used for preserving my own breastmilk many years ago, signifying my confidence in its effectiveness.
The preservation process involves gently heating the breastmilk in a double boiler until it reaches an appropriate temperature. Subsequently, the breastmilk preservation powder is then added to denature any potentially harmful elements while preserving the milk's distinctive colour.
Upon combination with the preservation powder, the breastmilk transforms into a paste, which is carefully spread out in a thin layer on a labelled piece of grease proof paper. This ensures that orders are meticulously separated at all times. The paste is then placed back into your designated DNA collection box, where it will undergo a thorough drying process. The meticulous drying process takes slightly under a week, after which your breastmilk will be ready for further processing, and its entry into our production diary will then be noted with an assigned date.
I take great pride in our preservation process, which guarantees the safekeeping of your precious breastmilk and its unique properties throughout each step. Should you have any questions or require additional information about our procedures, please do not hesitate to reach out to me.
Fully dried out breastmilk looks like this, it goes all crumbly!
Step 3
During the next stage of my meticulous process, your preserved breastmilk undergoes a delicate grinding procedure, resulting in a finely powdered form. I offer the option to leave the powder slightly chunkier, providing the opportunity to observe the preserved breastmilk flecks within the jewellery, or to achieve a finely ground texture, which I refer to as a 'whiteout'.
Should you have not indicated your preference for either a chunkier appearance or a 'whiteout' in your design notes, I’ll strive to strike a balance between the two, presenting you with a tasteful and harmonious outcome.
My commitment to attention to detail ensures that your preserved breastmilk is transformed into a personalised keepsake that aligns with your preferences. If you have any specific requests regarding the appearance of your breastmilk within the jewellery, please ensure you note your preferences on the order form when placing your order.
Next, your preserved breastmilk powder is combined with high-grade jeweller's resin, a crucial step that also allows for the incorporation of any shimmer elements, should you have chosen to include them in your jewellery design. The amalgamation of resin and breastmilk powder results in a blend that forms the foundation of your chosen jewellery setting, the metal component that houses the preserved breastmilk.
During this phase, if you have opted to include hair or umbilical cord flakes in your design, they are carefully introduced to the top of the breastmilk mixture in the design you indicated when placing your order, if no design was indicated, I will use my own ‘artistic flare’ when creating your jewellery. Once the composition is complete, the mixture is set into the jewellery setting, where it undergoes a curing process to solidify and establish its enduring form.
To provide added protection and ensure the longevity of your cherished jewellery piece, a robust top coat is applied. This top coat serves as a resilient barrier safeguarding your precious inclusions from potential scratches, sunlight exposure, and water damage.
My commitment to exceptional craftsmanship and attention to detail ensures that your personalised jewellery item is not only a sentimental keepsake but also a resilient and enduring memento of your nursing journey. Should you have any specific preferences or inquiries concerning the integration of shimmers, hair, or umbilical cord flakes, please feel free to communicate with us. Your satisfaction and the preservation of your treasured memories are of paramount importance to us.
Step 5
Upon completion of the jewellery crafting process and after conducting thorough quality checks, your exquisite piece of jewellery is polished to achieve a stunning finish. Subsequently, photographs are taken to capture the beauty and intricate details of your cherished creation. Finally, the jewellery is thoughtfully packaged with great care and sent to you, ready to be cherished forever.
I take great pride in my commitment to creating jewellery of exceptional quality, designed to honour and celebrate your unique breastfeeding journey. Operating with unwavering integrity, I approach each piece with the utmost care and consideration, treating it as if it were my very own. The craftsmanship involved in every jewellery item is a reflection of the deep love and devotion that is invested in its creation.
Your trust in my expertise is valued, and I assure you that your treasured jewellery piece embodies not only the physical beauty but also the emotional significance of this memorable milestone. It is an honour to be a part of preserving your precious memories through these cherished keepsakes.
If you have any specific preferences or queries, please do not hesitate to share them with me. Your satisfaction and the enduring enjoyment of your jewellery hold the highest priority in my work.