What Is Impression Print Jewellery? The Art of Lost Wax Casting

Jewellery has always been a way to hold onto meaning, but impression print jewellery allows those memories to be captured in a truly personal way. From fingerprints and pet paw prints to family impressions, each piece preserves a real, physical connection to someone you love.

At Meraki Studio, every impression print piece is handmade by me, Lucy, using the traditional lost wax casting technique. This process allows each ridge, line and natural detail of the original print to be permanently cast in solid sterling silver or 9ct gold, creating a one of a kind keepsake designed to last a lifetime.

The meaning behind impression print jewellery

Unlike surface engraving, impression print jewellery captures the depth and texture of a real print. The impression is taken directly into wax, preserving every natural detail exactly as it appears. No two prints are ever the same, which makes each piece entirely unique.

This style of jewellery is often chosen for deeply sentimental reasons. It can honour the memory of a loved one, celebrate a new life, or keep a beloved pet close. Impression print jewellery is about preserving connection, not just marking an occasion.

How lost wax casting preserves every detail

Lost wax casting is an ancient jewellery-making technique that allows for exceptional detail and longevity. It is especially suited to impression print jewellery, where precision is essential.

1. Taking the impression – You receive a wax kit to capture a fingerprint or pet print at home. For babies under twelve months, I recommend taking impressions of the creases and folds in their fingers, as defined fingerprints have not yet formed.
2. Refining the wax – Once your impression is returned, I carefully assess and refine the wax by hand, preserving the original print while ensuring it is suitable for casting.
3. Casting in solid metal – The wax is cast using the lost wax method, where molten sterling silver or 9ct gold replaces the wax, creating a permanent metal impression.
4. Hand finishing – Each piece is polished and finished by hand, balancing comfort and wearability while keeping the integrity of the print.

This hands-on process ensures every piece reflects the individuality of the original impression.

Why solid sterling silver and 9ct gold are used

Impression print jewellery is made to be worn and treasured for years, which is why I work exclusively with solid precious metals.

• Sterling silver – A timeless and durable option that beautifully highlights fine print details.
• 9ct gold – Available in yellow, white or rose gold, chosen for its strength and suitability for detailed impressions.

Solid metals ensure your jewellery can be enjoyed daily and passed down as a meaningful heirloom.

Occasions suited to impression print jewellery

Because each piece is custom made, impression print jewellery is suited to life’s most meaningful moments.

• Memorial jewellery – A lasting way to honour someone who has passed.
• Pet keepsakes – Preserve a beloved dog or cat’s paw or nose print.
• Newborn gifts – Capture the fleeting details of a baby’s early days.
• Anniversaries and milestones – Celebrate connection and shared history.
• Family pieces – Combine multiple prints into one meaningful design.

How to order your impression print jewellery

1. Select your piece from the impression print jewellery collection.
2. Take your impression using the wax kit provided.
3. Return the wax and I will begin handcrafting your jewellery.

Detailed information about lead times, customisation and care can be found on the impression print FAQs page.

I can only produce the best print you provide.

Free repairs for life

All handmade, custom made to order impression print pieces are covered by my free repairs for life promise. If your jewellery ever needs attention, I will restore it so it can continue to be worn and cherished.

A keepsake made with intention

Impression print jewellery is more than a piece you wear. It is a way to hold onto love, memory and connection. Handmade on Gadigal Land in Sydney, each piece reflects the meaning of Meraki, to create something with soul, care and intention.

Explore the impression print jewellery collection and begin creating your lasting keepsake.