Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing a meaningful keepsake is a special decision, and it's natural to have questions. We've answered the ones we're asked most often below. If you can't find what you're looking for, we'd love to help. Simply get in touch and we'll guide you through the process.
How does the process work?
Creating your ROHO Heritage piece is simple.
- Place your order and we'll send you an impression kit in our signature bamboo and linen gift box.
- Create your fingerprint or paw print impressions at home using the wax provided.
- We'll arrange a courier to collect your impressions from you.
- Your jewellery is handcrafted in our Cape Town studio using your unique impression.
- Once complete, your finished keepsake is carefully packaged and delivered to you.
Every piece is custom made, making it completely unique to you.
What is included in the fingerprint impression kit?
Every impression kit includes everything you need to create your keepsake at home.
Inside you'll find:
- Three wax balls to create your impressions
- Easy-to-follow instructions with a link to our demonstration video
- A beautiful bamboo and linen gift box to keep
We include three wax balls so you can experiment and choose the impression you love most.
Our kits also make a beautiful gift, and you can add a handwritten gift message at checkout.
How long does the entire process take?
We dispatch your impression kit on the next working day after your order is placed. Delivery usually takes 2 to 3 working days.
Once we receive your impressions back, your jewellery is handcrafted in approximately 2 to 4 weeks.
Because every piece is individually made by hand, a little patience is rewarded with something truly
special.
How long do I have to return my impression kit?
We ask that impression kits are returned within 6 months so we can begin crafting your jewellery.
Because precious metal prices fluctuate, kits returned after 6 months incur a metal inflation fee.
How old does my child need to be to capture a fingerprint?
Every child is different, but we generally recommend waiting until around 12 months, when fingerprints are usually well developed.
Some babies have beautifully defined fingerprints much earlier, while others don't.
Even if fingerprints aren't fully visible, we've created beautiful keepsakes using the natural shape and texture of tiny fingers.
If you can clearly see the fingerprint on your child's finger, you'll usually be able to capture a
beautiful impression.
Can I use the fingerprint of an elderly parent or grandparent?
Yes!
As we age, fingerprints naturally become softer and less defined. If the prints on the index, middle or ring finger are faint, try using the little finger, as it tends to show more detail.
Can I create a paw print or nose print?
Absolutely!
The process is gentle and completely safe for your pet. It may simply require a little patience.
For paw prints, place the wax on a firm surface and gently press the paw into it.
For nose prints, lightly dry the nose with a tissue first before gently pressing it into the wax. Nose prints are naturally more subtle than paw prints but can still create beautiful keepsakes.
How do I create a double-sided impression?
A double-sided impression is created by gently pressing two fingers into the wax at the same time, one on each side.
We recommend using medium or large wax balls for the best results.
Our demonstration video (above) walks you through the process step by step.
How do I know if my fingerprint impression is good enough?
Don't worry about getting it perfect the first time.
We include three wax balls in every kit so you can experiment and choose the impression you like best.
If you can clearly see the fingerprint in the wax, we'll be able to capture it beautifully in metal.
Avoid cracks, dust, lint or hairs in the wax, as these details will also appear in the finished piece.
Before casting, we carefully inspect every impression. If we don't feel it's suitable, we'll contact you before proceeding and help you create a new impression. Additional wax is provided free of charge, with only the courier costs payable.
If you're unsure, simply email us a photo of your impression at hello@rohoheritage.com, and we'll happily advise you.
How long does it take to create an impression?
The actual impression only takes a few seconds.
Many customers enjoy taking a little more time to experiment with the shape, depth and look of their fingerprint until they're completely happy.
There's no rush. You can re-roll
the wax and try again as many times as you'd like before sending it back.
Can I order one necklace with multiple pendants?
Yes.
Simply add an additional pendant to your order and select No Chain from the dropdown menu.
Many customers build their collection over time by adding children's fingerprints, family members or
birthstones.
Can I add a birthstone?
Yes.
Our birthstone pendants are designed to complement your ROHO fingerprint jewellery beautifully and are available as an optional addition to your necklace.
How much does the finished jewellery weigh?
The weight varies depending on the size you choose.
As a guide:
- Small pendant: approximately 1.5 to 2g
- Medium pendant: approximately 2 to 3g
- Large pendant: approximately 4 to 5g
For rings, allow an additional 1 to 2g depending on the ring size.
Can I polish my silver jewellery?
Yes.
Your jewellery is crafted from solid sterling silver, so the fingerprint impression won't wear away over time.
Like all sterling silver, it may naturally tarnish with age, but it can easily be polished to restore its shine.
Can I order a ROHO piece as a gift?
Absolutely.
Many of our customers purchase our impression kits as gifts for new parents, birthdays, anniversaries, Mother's Day and other meaningful occasions.
The recipient can enjoy creating their impressions when the time is right, making the experience just as special as the finished jewellery.
Still have a question?
We're always happy to help.
If there's anything you're unsure about, please get in touch. We'd love to guide you through the process and help you create a piece that you'll treasure for years to come.
