The unique concept of creating a range of fingerprint jewelry was originated by Smallprint in 2004.

Each Smallprint jeweler has been fully trained in the art of taking prints and making Smallprint silver jewelry, so we have a wealth of experience under our belts and we know our customers have many questions when buying such a precious keepsake.

We'll try to answer those questions for you below but if your specific inquiry is not addressed here don't hesitate to get in touch.

Jewelry Care

What causes silver to tarnish?
All silver does tarnish naturally. There are many things that can cause silver to tarnish, but the most common causes are wool, food (eggs, onions, mayonnaise), rubber bands, latex gloves and certain paints. Oily salts from fingers can also tarnish silver. Silver will tarnish much more quickly in humid environments.

How can I slow down the rate of tarnishing? Silver should be kept dry. Remove all silver jewelery before showering or cleaning. Soap can cause a film to form on silver jewelery, making it appear dull and dingy. A soft cloth is an effective and inexpensive way to keep your silver pieces lustrous and shining. Be particularly careful of chlorine. Chlorine, especially at high temperatures, can permanently damage or discolour your silver jewelery. Avoid wearing silver jewelery while using chlorine bleach or while in a pool or hot tub.

How do I look after my jewelery?
You can remove light tarnish by using a gentle washing up liquid and warm water. Carefully brush with a soft bristle brush, such as an old toothbrush. After brushing, simply rinse with lukewarm water and allow to dry. Frequent light cleanings are preferable to waiting until the tarnish gets so stubborn that more abrasive polishes have to be employed.

If your fingerprint item tarnishes more, you can polish it with silver polish or a silver cloth. It should come up shiny as new. Chains can be soaked in a silver dip (following the manufacturer's instructions). Do not however dip your fingerprint piece as it will remove the antiqued effect.

Are the fingerprints sterling silver?
No our fingerprints are fine silver which means they are more pure than sterling. Sterling silver contains a mixture of other metals and alloys which means it is 92.5% pure, while fine silver is 99.9% pure. All the items we attach to the fingerprints such as chains, clasps, key fobs etc are sterling silver.

How should I store my jewelry?
If you are not wearing your jewelry for a while or if you wish to keep it as a keepsake for when your child is older, simply keep it wrapped in some acid-free tissue.

Will my fingerprint piece scratch or dent?
Precious metal clay, because of its purity, is a relatively soft metal. If an item is worn every day or hung on a chain with lots of other items or on a key ring, it will gradually age.