Ordering impression jewellery is a little different from ordering a regular piece of jewellery, so it's completely normal to have questions. I've answered the ones I'm asked most often below, but if there's anything else you'd like to know, please get in touch. I'm always happy to help.
How does the impression kit work?
Once you place your order, I'll post your impression kit within 3 business days. Each kit contains three pieces of specialist jewellers wax, giving you three separate attempts to capture the perfect impression for your single ring or pendant, so I can choose the most suitable one for the best final result. Detailed step-by-step instructions guide you through taking your print impressions.
Simply press your finger, your pet's paw pad or nose into the wax, then send it back using the prepaid packaging provided. I'll carefully prepare your impression before it's cast into solid metal by my trusted Melbourne-based casters. Once it's back in my hands, I finish, polish, quality check and package your jewellery before sending it home to you.
Why does my print impression kit contain three pieces of wax?
Taking an impression can take a bit of practice, especially if you're capturing a paw print or nose print from a wriggly pet. I include three pieces of wax so you've got three attempts to get it right, then I can choose the clearest, most detailed impression to send off for casting. It's not three separate pieces of jewellery, just three chances to nail the one.
If you'd like more than one ring or pendant, you'll need to order a separate kit for each piece.
What if I'm not happy with my impressions after using all three pieces of wax?
The wax is incredibly forgiving and can be gently reheated and rolled out as many times as you need, so you don't need to worry about running out.
If you're unsure whether you've captured a good impression, simply send me a photo before posting it back. I'm always happy to check it and let you know if it's ready or whether it's worth trying again.
What if I'm capturing a paw print and the wax isn't working?
Some paws are a little trickier than others, especially if there's lots of fur or your pet isn't keen to sit still.
If wax isn't giving you the result you're after, you can use polymer clay instead. Simply capture the paw print in the clay and send it back to me. I'll create the impression from there before your piece is cast.
Can I have impressions on both sides of my piece?
Yes. Where the design allows, you can use a double-sided pressing technique so impressions can be captured on both sides before your jewellery is cast.
Can I take an impression from a baby under 12 months old?
Absolutely. Your kit includes instructions with helpful tips for safely capturing beautiful little impressions.
Can I create a piece after someone has passed away?
If you already have a fingerprint, paw print or nose print captured in a suitable mould or impression, I may be able to create a piece from it.
Unfortunately, it's not possible to take a new wax impression after someone has passed away, so an existing impression is required.
If you're unsure whether what you have will work, please get in touch. I'm always happy to have a look and let you know what's possible.
What is the silicone mould option?
A silicone mould is made directly from your original wax impression, allowing you to keep a mould of your impression forever.
This means you can create matching pieces now or order additional jewellery in the future without needing to take another impression.
It's a lovely option if you'd like to build your own collection or create meaningful gifts for family members over time.
Can I use the same impression for different jewellery styles?
Yes. If you've chosen the optional silicone mould, your impression can be used again whenever you'd like.
You might begin with a pendant, then later create a ring, charm or another keepsake using the very same fingerprint, paw print or nose print.
Who makes my jewellery?
Every impression is personally checked and prepared by me before it's sent for casting.
I work with trusted Melbourne-based casting specialists who transform your wax impression into solid metal using the traditional lost wax casting process.
Once your jewellery returns to me, I complete all finishing, polishing, quality checking and packaging by hand before sending it to you.
What metals are available?
Impression jewellery is available in:
- Solid bronze
- Sterling silver
- 18k gold plated sterling silver
- Solid 9k yellow gold
- Solid 9k rose gold
White gold and platinum are also available by request. Please get in touch for a personalised quote.
Will my bronze piece tarnish?
Bronze naturally develops a patina over time, and that's part of what gives the metal its unique character.
Every bronze piece is protected with a clear coating to help slow tarnishing and includes a polishing cloth for easy care. How quickly the finish changes depends largely on your body chemistry and how often the piece is worn. Generally, the coating will last between 1-5 years. If you wish to have your bronze piece recoated in future, please contact me as I offer a lifetime craftsman ship guarantee and will recoat you piece free of charge for the lifetime of your jewellery.
How long does the process take?
I'll post your impression kit within 3 business days of ordering.
Once your completed impression arrives back with me, please allow approximately 4 to 6 weeks for casting, finishing, quality checking and packaging before your jewellery is ready to be posted.