This article details the emerging trend of incorporating birthstones into jewelry crafted with breastmilk, a practice gaining popularity as a means of preserving personal and familial memories. While not a traditional gemstone study, this exploration examines the materials used, customization options, and the unique process behind these personalized keepsakes. The information presented is based solely on the provided sources, which primarily detail the offerings of companies specializing in this niche market.
The Rise of Sentimental Jewelry
The creation of jewelry from breastmilk, ashes, hair, umbilical cord, placenta, and dried flowers represents a modern approach to memorializing significant life events, particularly motherhood. Several companies have emerged to cater to this demand, offering a range of customizable pieces designed to hold these personal inclusions. This practice allows individuals to create tangible reminders of intimate experiences, transforming biological materials into wearable art. The core concept revolves around encapsulating these materials within solid metals and, increasingly, incorporating birthstones for added personalization.
Materials and Craftsmanship
The jewelry is primarily constructed from solid metals, with 925 sterling silver being a common base material. Gold plating options, including rose gold and yellow gold, are also available. Some companies offer solid 14k gold and platinum options, particularly for stackable rings, alongside ethically sourced VS GH diamonds. The inclusion of breastmilk requires a specialized preservation process. One company highlights its founder’s use of a doctorate in pharmacy to develop chemical tests and methods for preserving breastmilk, distinguishing their process from competitors who may utilize UV resin.
UV resin is noted as a faster method, completing a piece in under 30 minutes, while the described process takes over a week, emphasizing a commitment to creating heirloom-quality keepsakes. This extended process is intended to ensure the longevity and quality of the final product. Other inclusions, such as ashes, hair, umbilical cord, and dried flowers, are also incorporated into the jewelry designs.
Birthstone Integration
A key element of customization is the inclusion of birthstones. Cubic zirconia is frequently used to represent birth months, offering a cost-effective and visually appealing option. Companies provide birthstone charts to guide customers in selecting the appropriate stone for their piece. Options include lab-made diamonds as an alternative to colored birthstones, and the bail of a necklace can be set with April/lab-made simulated diamonds unless otherwise specified. The versatility of the designs allows for multiple birthstones to be incorporated, representing family members or significant dates.
Product Examples and Customization
The available product range is diverse, encompassing necklaces, rings, and stackable pieces. The “Luna” necklace is specifically mentioned as being customizable with birthstones alongside breastmilk and other inclusions. The “Adeline” necklace is named after the founder’s daughter, symbolizing strength and serving as a flagship product. The “Half-Band Birthstone/Breastmilk Ring” is a popular choice, featuring a half-band design that incorporates a single birthstone.
Customization extends beyond the choice of birthstone and inclusion material. The color of each stone can be individually selected, allowing for unique and personalized designs. For example, a “Love Drop Ring” can feature different colored stones to represent individual family members. The level of customization offered is a significant selling point for these businesses.
The Creation Process and Turnaround Time
The process begins with an order placement, followed by instructions being sent via email for sending in inclusions. Companies may offer Inclusion Collection Kits for ease of sending materials. Turnaround times vary, with an approximate range of 2-12 weeks, significantly shorter than the 6-12 months cited for some competitors. This relatively quick turnaround is presented as a benefit, acknowledging the importance of receiving the cherished keepsake in a timely manner.
Due to the personalized nature of the jewelry, returns are generally not accepted. However, companies emphasize their commitment to resolving any product issues that may arise.
Inclusions and Quantities
Specific quantities of inclusions are requested for different pieces. For example, approximately 1/2 ounce of breastmilk is needed for 3-5 pieces, while 1/2 teaspoon of cremated ashes is sufficient for 2-3 pieces. Other inclusion requirements include 1/2 the length of an umbilical cord stump, approximately 20 strands of hair (1 inch long), and 2-3 flower petals. Companies typically hold inclusions on file for a year after purchase, allowing customers to order additional items using the same materials, with the exception of ashes, which are returned to the customer.
Quality Control and Materials Sourcing
Companies emphasize the use of high-quality materials and ethical sourcing practices. The use of solid gold, platinum, and genuine diamonds is highlighted, differentiating their offerings from those utilizing lower-quality materials. The avoidance of UV resin in favor of a more time-consuming process is presented as a commitment to creating durable, heirloom-quality pieces.
Expanding Beyond Core Products
While the core business revolves around breastmilk jewelry, companies also offer the option of adding inclusions to a wider range of jewelry pieces. This flexibility allows customers to personalize existing designs or create entirely new pieces incorporating their chosen materials. Prairie Keepsake specifically notes that breastmilk, ashes, flowers, hair, placenta, and umbilical cord can be added to any jewelry piece.
Community and Support
Some companies foster a sense of community through online platforms, such as Facebook groups, where customers can connect, share experiences, and find answers to frequently asked questions. This approach aims to build trust and provide ongoing support to customers throughout the creation process.
A Note on Gemological Properties
It is important to note that the birthstones used in these pieces are primarily cubic zirconia and lab-created diamonds. These materials are chosen for their affordability and aesthetic appeal, rather than their inherent gemological value. While they visually represent the birthstones, they do not possess the same chemical composition, hardness, or rarity as natural gemstones.
Conclusion
The combination of breastmilk and birthstones in keepsake jewelry represents a unique and emotionally resonant trend. These personalized pieces offer a tangible way to preserve cherished memories and celebrate significant life events, particularly motherhood. The craftsmanship, customization options, and commitment to quality materials contribute to the appeal of these keepsakes. While not focused on traditional gemology, the integration of birthstones adds a layer of symbolism and personalization to these increasingly popular items. The industry is characterized by a focus on sentimental value, personalized design, and a relatively quick turnaround time compared to some competitors.