On this page we'll try to answer the most common questions about our fingerprint charms and jewelry. If we've missed your question, please call or write us. We're happy help you find the right solutions for your needs.

How are Thumbies Fingerprint Charms made?

Our jewelry designers start with a digitized version of the print. In the case of a fingerprint, these skilled artisans will select the most interesting portion of the print; for a handprint or footprint, they will clean up the area around the print in order to make it as clean and crisp as possible. Then, a computer assisted manufacturing device creates a wax mold based on that image. This traditional lost wax casting method is how the actual piece of silver or gold jewelry is produced.
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What kind of prints can I use?

We can work with any print. Finger, hand, foot, paw, nose, and hoof prints. We've even created bighorn sheep hoof print charms. As long as you can produce the ink print, we will work with you to create your personal creation.
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How does the process work?

Our charm process is surprisingly easy: 1) select your preferred piece of jewelry and place your order; 2) we will send you an Ink Print Kit to take capture the prints you’d like to use; 3) send in the prints directly, along with any desired engraving, to our charm designers (we will provide you with the address), and they will begin creating your one-of-a-kind charm; 4) in approximately 4 weeks, you will received your finished charm(s). Please Note: If you already have an ink fingerprint, hand print, or foot print, you may scan it and send us a copy of the print by e-mail. That makes the whole process even easier!
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What occasions are Thumbies appropriate for?

These amazingly personal and totally unique charms can be used to mark any moment in life – or to have or give “just because.” They are commonly created and given for births, significant birthdays, weddings, and memorials. These charms are truly the ultimate keepsake gift idea for a loved one – or for yourself. They are a touching way to remember a parent, spouse, sibling, child, or friend and to keep their memories alive and close to you throughout your life.
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How large are the charms?

The “Standard” Thumbie charm size is 5/8" long x 1/2" wide. The “Grand” Thumbie charm size is 1" long x 3/4" wide.
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How long does it take to receive my charm(s)?

Your ink print kit will typically be mailed within 3 working days of placing your order. We encourage you to send in your prints as soon as you’re able to. Production of your personalized charm will take up approximately 4 weeks from the date our design company receives your prints. Your completed jewelry will be returned via UPS (Ground service and insured) unless you select an alternative. Please allow 4 to 6 weeks total turn around time, just to be sure!
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Can I make a Fingerprint charm of a baby?

A keepsake baby charm, we strongly suggest a baby footprint or handprint instead (babies don’t develop mature fingerprints until they are 3 years old). Please select a hand or foot print charm for babies and toddlers under age 3.
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What precious metal options are available?

Tear Catcher Gifts offers the Thumbies charms in 3 precious metals: Sterling silver, 14k yellow gold, and 14k white gold

Our charms are typically available in 4 surface designs: Full fingerprint, Rimmed fingerprint, Footprint, and Handprint. Please Note: We can also make charms with other prints to support pet lovers! Paw prints for cats and dogs, nose prints, horse’s hoof prints - we’ve even produced a hoof print from a big horn sheep. If you’re not sure, just give us a call.
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Is engraving available?

The Standard size charm includes 2 lines of engraving, with each line accommodating up to 10 characters and spaces. So, it’s not much space! Usually our customers decide upon a name and a date, or a word or two. (An optional 3rd line is available for an additional $10.00 charge.) The Grand size charms include the 3rd line at no extra charge.
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Can I include a birthstone on the charm(s)?

You may select a small synthetic birthstone if you wish, or a genuine diamond, opal, or pearl to be included at the top of the charm (on the “bail” or hoop where it connects to a chain), adding elegance to each piece. You can see a listing of our birthstones on our Birthstone Gem Stone Selector page.
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What if I already have an ink fingerprint?

If you already have an ink fingerprint in hand, you may certainly send that print directly to our jewelry designers. Or you may e-mail the print to our designers. When you place your on-line order at www.tearcatcher.com, type in a little note in the “comments” box and simply tell us, “I already have a print – don’t need the ink kit. I just need the [street or e-mail] address to send the print to.” Upon receiving your order, we will promptly send you an e-mail confirmation about your order and will provide you with the street address and/or e-mail address.
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How do I SCAN the print?

To reproduce your fingerprint, hand print, or foot prints accurately, we ask that you scan your print at 600 dpi and save the print as a .jpg file. Crop the image closely if possible to the print. Send your best print. And finally, title the .jpg file with the name of the printee.
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