DNA is found in every cell of the body. The DNA you provide is used to create the shimmering double helix inside the little glass vial of your Life Jewel™.
Perpetua guarantees that every Life Jewel™ contains actual DNA from the provided samples.
Samples with a small amount of DNA, such as cheekswabs and hair, are enhanced with botanical DNA in order to complete the Helix.The botanical DNA acts as a lattice, supporting and volumizing the sample DNA without interfering with its unique properties.
We offer several easy options here for sample collection.
Click on the links below for information about how to collect DNA for your Life Jewels:
A Gentle Process
While we encourage you to use the materials provided in your DNA Collection Kit, it is also acceptable to use several cotton swabs or a soft child-size toothbrush. If you already have the sample please include a completed Sample Information Form, including the name of the sampled person, with your shipment.
Click here to download the Sample Information Form.
Click here to download instructions for DNA collection from people.
Cheek Swabs: Easy to do
The cheek swab is the easiest and most common method for collecting DNA samples.
IMPORTANT:
- Avoid taking the sample immediately after eating.
- Wash your hands between taking different samples.
- Use a separate swab for collecting each person’s DNA.
- DO NOT put the sample swab in a plastic bag or airtight container.
The DNA Collection Kit (sent by the Zoogen Lab to all prepaid orders) includes soft sterile brushes “swabs” and guidelines. It only requires gently brushing the inner cheek, as described below:
- Clearly label each packet with person’s name and remove swab from packet.
- Gently insert the swab brush into the cheek pouch, with the bristles pressed out against the inner cheek (pulling away from the teeth).
- Gently brush up and down for at least 30 seconds.
- Let the brush air-dry for about 30 minutes before placing back in the packet. You can let the swab rest on top of the the labeled packet to ensure the swab is correctly identified. Do not put the swab in a plastic bag; although it may appear dry residual moisture will allow bacteria to grow.
- Complete the order form and mail it along with your samples to Perpetua. The shipping addresses for both U.S.Mail and courier services (UPS, FedEx) are at the bottom of the Sample Information/Order Form.
Hair Samples
Hair contains very small amounts of DNA, whether plucked or taken from a hairbrush. Many clients request that a DNA sample from themselves, collected with a cheekswab, be combined with the hair DNA from a loved one. If the sample hairs are less than an inch long, make sure to send an amount that, when bunched, could fit in a teaspoon. For longer hair, gather about 5 strands and tape them at one end before sealing in a ziplock bag. Label each bag containing a sample by writing your name on a piece of tape adhered to the outside of each bag.