Frequently Asked Questions

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General

What is breastmilk/keepsake jewelry?

Breastmilk/keepsake jewelry is a unique way to preserve cherished memories. Each piece holds deep significance as it is crafted from meaningful mementos such as breastmilk, formula, cremation ashes, dried flowers (from weddings or funerals), locks of hair, placenta capsules, pregnancy test caps, or other items of sentimental value.

How do I order?

To order your piece, simply navigate to the "shop" section located at the top of our website. You can explore and choose from our variety of rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Once you have decided on a piece, you will choose the metal type/color, ring size, and stone design options. Be as specific as you would like in the order notes. 

I recommend visiting our Instagram and TikTok profiles @maternalglowjewelry to view videos, stone designs, ring styles, and sets for inspiration. Each piece is uniquely special and this artistry is not an exact science. I hope you will love and embrace your piece that reflects your journey.

Once your order is placed, you will receive an email containing detailed instructions on how to send your milk/keepsakes to us, along with the shipping address.

How long until I receive my jewelry?

The current turnaround time is approximately 4-12 weeks from when we receive your inclusions to when you receive it in the mail. This timeline is just an estimate and it is subject to change based on order volume and complexity.

You also have the option to upgrade your order to a “rush” status. This ensures your piece gets priority and is moved to the front of the line, therefore reducing your wait by about 4 weeks.

Why does it take so long to get my jewelry?

I take pride in offering the quickest turnaround time possible!

Here’s a breakdown for you:

  • Weeks 1 & 2: Waiting for your breast milk and/or inclusions and ordering your setting.
  • Weeks 3 & 4: Breastmilk is preserved and allowed to dry for 3-5 days.
  • Weeks 5 - 7: Your stone is crafted. Before mounting it in the jewelry piece, it undergoes a crucial resting period for curing.
  • Weeks 8 - 12: Your item is assembled, polished, and lovingly packaged.

Please remember these are estimates and may change if there is an influx of orders. Feel free to communicate with me at any time regarding turnaround times and refer to the status page to see where in the process your order is.

How is breastmilk jewelry made?

I use a unique method to transform your breast milk into a preserved powdered form which removes bacteria and guards against discoloration. The preserved milk is then finely ground and blended with jeweler's grade resin. This blend, along with your selected design elements, is then carefully cast into a silicone mold or directly poured into select settings to create your keepsake stone. 

Will my jewelry match what is on the website?

Each piece is one-of-a-kind because all inclusions (such as breastmilk, ash, dried flowers, etc.) are unique. Certain inclusions present more challenges during the crafting process, ensuring that no two pieces will ever be identical. Each jewelry piece may exhibit variations, including but not limited to: variations in translucency, bubbles, signs of handcrafting or sanding, stones not perfectly flush in their settings, and other minor imperfections. These characteristics are all normal for handcrafted jewelry. When you purchase from Maternal Glow Jewelry, you acknowledge that your jewelry piece may not be entirely flawless or without imperfections.

Can you create a custom piece?

We first encourage you to browse our jewelry selections on the website. Adding inclusions and selecting stone design elements is one way to create a custom piece. If you would still prefer something that is not listed, we welcome you to email hello@maternalglowjewelry.com with your design idea and preferences to see what we may be able to create.

Can you help me with my design idea?

If you’re having trouble deciding on a design, I understand completely! We suggest keeping it simple if you’re feeling overwhelmed. Classy and straightforward choices are always timeless! Our jewelry is inherently beautiful and makes a statement with very little to no embellishments. You can always opt for a more adventurous design with your next piece of jewelry.

If you’d like to share a photo or a rough sketch of your design idea (after providing a detailed description on your order form), simply upload it while placing your order. Please note that once your milk has been preserved, we are unable to make any changes to the design of your stone. So it’s crucial to promptly email any design changes and I will do my best, but please remember that they are not guaranteed if not completed within 24 hours of purchase.

Can I see my order before it ships?

Unfortunately, in order to focus more on the completion of orders and maintain low turn around times, I am not able to send a finished photo of every order to customers. Your order will be created to your exact customization detailed when placing your order, or as closely to it as possible. These are handmade keepsakes and the final product cannot be predicted completely. 

If you join the Maternal Glow VIP Community, a photo of your finished order may be posted there!

What if I have questions about my order?

Please do not hesitate to email us at hello@maternalglowjewelry.com. We will get back to you as soon as possible.

Can I cancel/change my order?

You may cancel/make changes to your order via e-mail within 24 hours of placing it. Please note that a 20% restocking fee applies to all cancellations. We cannot accept changes or cancellations past the 24 hour mark. It is crucial to be 100% certain of your choices for stone design elements and setting style before placing an order. I strongly advise thoroughly reviewing your order details at checkout multiple before finalizing your transaction. Please visit the cancellation policy for more details.

Who buys breastmilk/keepsake jewelry?

We serve a large variety of customers, though our main clients are mothers from all walks of life. We have breastfeeding mothers who want to remember their journey no matter how long or short it was. Friends and families that want to surprise their loved one with a piece to honor their motherhood journey. As well as individuals and families that have suffered a loss and want to have their loved one with them at all times. Our jewelry is for everyone!

Do you accept international orders?

YES! I’m excited to offer my services to moms all over the world. International orders are not eligible to order a pre-paid collection kit due to custom restrictions. You will be responsible for shipping your milk and/or inclusions internationally with tracking. All international orders carry a $15 handling fee and you may be charged import taxes and fees by your country when receiving your package. For more details on how to ship your orders please email me at hello@maternalglowjewelry.com 

Do you offer gift cards?

Absolutely! Gift cards are perfect gifts for baby showers, push presents, Christmas, Mother's Day, anniversaries, and more! Gift cards are non-refundable.

Do you offer discounts?

Yes! We offer loyalty sales a few times a year for those who are using their previously preserved milk we have on file. To stay up to date with special discounts, sales, and giveaways make sure you join the VIP community and our mailing list.

I forgot to apply my discount!

Discount codes must be applied during checkout. Discounts cannot be honored or applied retroactively after an order has been placed.

Inclusions

How do I ship my breastmilk/inclusions?

Detailed instructions on how to send your milk and/or inclusions, as well as the shipping address, will be sent via email once your order is complete. If you do not see the email in your inbox, please check your spam. If you are unable to locate it, please email hello@maternalglowjewelry.com. Unless a collection kit was ordered, you will be responsible to pay for shipping your inclusions to me and must get tracking information. Shipping should run you about $5. Please save your receipt and tracking information. DO NOT require signature. 

DO NOT SEND ME THE LAST OF YOUR BREASTMILK AND/OR INCLUSIONS

Maternal Glow Jewelry is not responsible if they get lost or damaged in the mail and will not issue refunds due to this issue. Please always save some for yourself and as a back-up as they are irreplaceable. 

BREASTMILK- 1/2 an ounce of room temperature breastmilk and triple bag in breastmilk storage bags. Label with purchaser's name and invoice number.

FORMULA- 1 scoop in a small plastic/ziplock bag and double/triple bag. Label with purchaser's name and invoice number.

CREMATION ASHES / GRAVE DIRT / SAND- 1 tablespoon in a small plastic/ziplock bag and double/triple bag. Label with purchaser's name and invoice number. Unused ashes will be returned.

PLACENTA- 2 enclosed capsules or 1 teaspoon of powdered placenta in a small plastic/ziplock bag and double/triple bag. Label with purchaser's name and invoice number.

UMBILICAL CORD- Small portion or half of fully dried umbilical cord stump. Place in a small plastic/ziplock bag and double bag. Label with purchaser's name and invoice number.

HAIR- About 25 strands 1-2 inches long, bound together with a small elastic or string. Place in a folded paper towel and in a small plastic/ziplock bag. Label with purchaser's name and invoice number.

DRIED FLOWERS- 3-5 fully dried petals in a small plastic/ziplock bag. Label with purchaser's name and invoice number.

OTHER INCLUSIONS- Please email me for specific instructions.

How long do I have to send in my milk/inclusions?

I recommend shipping milk and/or inclusions right away to avoid forgetting and preferably within 30 days or ordering. Milk and inclusions are required to be sent in within 6 months from the date of purchase. Failure to do so within the six month timeframe will result in an empty setting being sent to your provided address. Please note that we do not maintain a stock inventory of settings; each one is custom ordered and designed for each client. 

If you have received an empty setting after the six month period and would like to reinstate you order for a fee, please reach out to hello@maternalglowjewelry.com 

Can I use old or frozen breastmilk?

Yes, you can use breastmilk that is fresh, old, or defrosted. As long as there is no mold present we can even use milk that is 20+ years old. Please ensure to send only requested room temperature amount.

How do I know that you are using my breastmilk/inclusion in my piece?

Maternal Glow Jewelry is run solely by me. I pride myself in striving for excellence in my work and would never risk the trust placed in me. I have developed a strict organizational system where every inclusion and setting is labeled and maintained with their order information through every step.

What happens to my left over milk/inclusions?

Leftover preserved milk and flowers will be stored and kept on hand for 2 years, in the event you would like to order another piece. Leftover cremation ashes, hair, placenta, umbilical cord, test and IVF caps, will be sent back with your piece. 

I will not send any preserved milk or extra stones. Any milk sent over the requested 15ml/0.5 ounce will be tossed. 

Can I use milk from more than one child in one piece?

Certainly! You have the option to combine milk from more than one baby before sending it in, or you can send separate batches of milk to be processed individually. There is a $25 processing fee for preserving additional batches of milk separately when incorporating them into the same piece. Leftover preserved milk will be stored individually for 2 years in case you want to get an individual piece made.

Jewelry Warranty/Care

How durable is breastmilk/keepsake jewelry?

While breastmilk jewelry is crafted to be durable and strong, the stone is similar to opal or pearl and can be scratched. Like any fine jewelry, its longevity depends on proper care and handling.

What metal is the jewelry made out of?

Our pieces are made of .925 sterling silver, rose gold and yellow gold plated sterling silver, solid 14K gold, solid 18K gold, and 14K/18K rose gold & rhodium plating. The wide range of options available ensures you can find a piece that suits both your style and budget. 

Will the jewelry tarnish or fade over time?

Interestingly, one way to prevent tarnishing is to actually wear your jewelry and follow jewelry care instructions. With regular wear and proper storage your piece will not accumulate tarnish as quickly. 

The plating on plated items will gradually wear away and require re-plating at some stage. The longevity of the plating varies based on factors such as individual body chemistry, duration of wear, jewelry care, ect.

While they are more expensive, solid gold pieces are more durable and less likely to tarnish. They are better suited to be worn on a daily basis and be passed down as an heirloom for generations. 

Each jewelry order includes a polishing cloth and storage box or bag. The cloth is suitable for polishing pieces. However, we advise against frequent use of the cloth on plated pieces as it may eventually remove the plating.

Our exclusive curing method stops your milk from discoloring by neutralizing it. While our jeweler's grade resin has UV stabilizers and we have seen no changes in our test stones over time, no resin out there is 100% resistant to slight yellowing overtime with prolonged exposure to UV light.  

Can I resize my ring?

We generally advise against resizing. The process involves heating the ring, which can jeopardize the integrity of the stones, potentially causing them to melt or become damaged. Therefore, it's crucial to get the most accurate ring size possible when ordering. If you opt to have a jeweler attempt resizing, please understand that it's done entirely at your own risk!

Customers are responsible for confirming their ring size prior to placing their order. Remember ALL SALES ARE FINAL. We recommend visiting a local jewelry store where a professional jeweler can assist you in figuring out your ring size. If that's not feasible, you can purchase a ring sizer tool on Amazon or print a PDF at home to measure your ring size. However, please be aware that sizing at home may be inaccurate. 

Please keep in mind that ring sizes can vary slightly, typically up to a quarter size larger or smaller. This variation is minor but noteworthy. Ring sizing is not universally standardized, and since many of our rings are handmade, there may be a slight variance. Please consider this before making a purchase as it is not recommended to resize our rings.

If you find yourself between sizes, opting for a larger size is generally safer than choosing a smaller one. Additionally, when stacking rings they may feel a little tighter if you stack several of them.

How do I care for my jewelry?

Please handle your keepsake jewelry/items with ultimate care. Do not wear your jewelry while engaging in activities such as showering, bathing, exercising, sunbathing, swimming, or sleeping. Avoid exposing your jewelry to chemicals like lotion, perfume, hairspray, laundry or dish soap, as well as extreme temperatures, humidity, prolonged UV light, or essential oils. Keep your jewelry away from direct sunlight and humid environments, such as bathrooms. It is recommended to store your jewelry in a dark, dry area, preferably in a jewelry box or pouch with an anti-tarnish strip. Additionally, prevent mixing different metals/colors together during storage, as this can hasten tarnishing; for instance, avoid storing silver pieces alongside gold-plated items.

Each jewelry order includes a polishing cloth and storage box or bag. The cloth is suitable for polishing pieces. However, we advise against frequent use of the cloth on plated pieces as it may eventually remove the plating.

Do you offer a warranty?

Yes! Please see the warranty policy for more details.

Shipping

Do you offer FREE shipping?

All orders over $200 inside the US will automatically receive free shipping!

Can I pick up my order?

YES! If you are local to Orlando, I'm located near MCO. When placing your order use code: LOCAL

I will email you once your order is ready for pick up and we can coordinate. To drop off your milk and/or inclusions please reply to your confirmation email to coordinate with me.

Is shipping insurance included?

Yes, shipping insurance is included in our shipping pricing. Please note that I cannot be held responsible for items lost or damaged in transit, as this is beyond my control. However, shipping insurance will reimburse the cost of another piece of jewelry in such cases. Given the precious nature of these items, ensuring they are fully insured during shipping is essential to minimize any risk.

Didn't find what you were looking for? Feel free to contact us at any time!