Fingerprint Questions


What? When? How?

What is the difference between fine silver and sterling silver?
Sterling silver is only 92.5% pure, as it is mixed with other metals. All my charms are made from fine silver which is 99.9% pure silver. You will find that all Petite Prints’ charms are hallmarked with ‘999FS’ (99.9% fine silver). The jewellery items, fittings and components are solid sterling silver unless otherwise stated in the individual product descriptions.

Can I purchase a gift voucher from Petite Prints?
Absolutely, I can provide you with gift vouchers. I have some listed on my website, see the side tab 'gift vouchers' or contact me for a specific amount.

From what age can you take fingerprint impressions?
Generally speaking, the older the child, the more defined the fingerprint will be. Babies less than nine months old are unlikely to have much definition in their fingerprint, as the lines on their fingers may not be fully developed yet. Some people prefer to wait until their child has a more defined print, while others are happy to capture the tiny indentation made by their little one. Every child's print is different. Some one year olds may have more detail than some five year olds.The only guarantee is that every print is as unique as the child and so too will be your final product… capturing that moment forever. Don’t forget the BIG kids too! I am also happy to create impressions from adults fingerprints.

How do I care for my fingerprint jewellery?
You can clean your item with an anti-tarnish silver polishing cloth. It is recommended that you remove your jewellery when using household cleaners, as these harsh chemicals can mark fine silver and sterling silver. I would advise against using liquid silver cleaners on your Petite Prints’ charm.

How long will it take to receive my finished product?
I aim to have your order ready in approximately 3 weeks from the impression being taken. At certain times of the year such as Christmas and Mother’s Day this may take slightly longer due to the volume of orders. If you require a piece by a certain date, please let me know and I’ll do my best to work towards that time.

Can I have a fingerprint on both sides of the charm?
If we pressed another fingerprint onto the back of the charm, it would damage and distort the print on the front, so I only imprint on one side.

Can I have my child’s name on the charm?
I always try to accommodate a name on the front of each charm. Space is restricted on some of the shapes, so we may need to look at other options.

Can I order duplicates of the same fingerprint charm?
There are a few ways to do this, if we create a silicone mould then we can make multiple prints off the mould. However a silicone mould is not ideal for a very young child. If I am meeting you in person we can take multiple impressions off the finger into the silver clay. There are lots of options, please send me a message and we can find the best solution for you.

Are you part of a franchise?
Petite Prints is not part of a franchise business. It is independently run so I retain absolute control over the quality of goods and the service you receive.

What are your payment methods?
Payments can be made in cash, or bank deposit. Payment plans are available. I require 50% deposit before I fire the silver clay and full payment before I give you your gorgeous jewellery.

Do you provide group sessions or parties?
I am happy to meet up with you and your friends, a post natal group or a toddler group for example. I can bring samples for you and your guests to hold and try on. This is a nice relaxing way to meet up while I take the fingerprint impressions.

Is the clay product safe for my child?
Yes, it is a totally organic and non–toxic clay. All I recommend is simple hand washing after the impression has been taken.

How do you guarantee the quality of your products?
Petite Prints are confident that you will be totally happy with your fingerprint charm. I pride myself on giving you the highest standard of craftmanship. If for any reason you are not entirely satisfied with your finished piece, simply send it back to Petite Prints in its original packaging outlining the reasons for return and we will work to resolve the problem as soon as possible.

Do you take fingerprints in the ICU?
Yes I’m happy to come into the ICU and take fingerprints for you, please call me to arrange a time to come in.

Do you take fingerprints of stillborn babies?
Unfortunately I don’t take fingerprints of still born babies as the fingerprint lines are too small to detect in the silver clay I use. I can use an inkprint of your babies hands or feed to make a very special keep sake for you. I also have two angel baby pendent designs and I can customise these with names and dates. Please send me a message, I'd love to help create something special for you.

Can you create a fingerprint from a loved one who has past away?
Christchurch -  You can pick up a silicone kit from me to take to the funeral home and ask if they can kindly press your loved ones finger into the silicone for you.
Outside of Christchurch - you can ask the funeral home if they can please take an inked or penciled fingerprint impression from your loved one that I can scan in and make into a stamp for pressing into the silver clay. I need a clean clear print to work with for this, send me a message and I can let you know some ways to create this.