Frequently Asked Questions

 We work with a variety of artifacts, specializing in saliva-based items such as licked envelopes or stamps from postcards, toothbrushes, and dentures. These are typically our first choice for testing, as they often provide ample DNA and often yield excellent results.

Everyday wear items, such as watches, eyeglasses, or jewelry, are also ideal due to their consistent and frequent use, allowing them to collect DNA over time. Hair samples with roots intact are strong candidates as well; we prefer to see 5–10 strands for optimal testing. We are currently working to provide testing on rootless hairs, however we do not do such testing at this time. Please follow our website and social media for updates on this progress. 

If you’re unsure about an item, feel free to reach out, or schedule an appointment to discuss items you may have! We’re happy to guide you through the selection process!

Our testing process is completed in three phases, and we are continually working to shorten turnaround times whenever possible.

Phase 1 (1–2 weeks): DNA extraction and elvaluation to determine how much usable DNA your heirloom contains. 

Phase 2 (3–5 weeks): Library preparation and sequencing. This phase is completed in batches, so timing can vary slightly depending on when your sample enters the queue.

Phase 3 (About 1 week): Data analysis and report generation. You will receive your final report and upload-ready file at the conclusion of this phase.

Phase 1 involves extracting DNA from your submitted artifact and assessing both the quantity and quality of the extract. In this phase we may be able to determine a female mixture, please be aware male mixtures can not be determined in phase 1. This step costs $395 per sample. If additional artifacts are required, an additional Phase 1 fee will apply per sample.

Following the extraction, we provide a detailed report outlining:

- The amount of DNA obtained

- The quality of the DNA

- The genetic sex (male or female) of the DNA source

- The likelihood of successfully generating a viable genetic genealogy profile through Phase 2 testing, should you choose to proceed. 

For more details about Phase 1, please visit the "About Us" section or reach out to us with any questions!

 If the first artifact does not provide sufficient DNA, we will move on to test a backup artifact, if provided. Rest assured, we will discuss options with you before proceeding. 

Please be aware any additional testing may result in additional charges, to cover the effort and resources that go into each phase. 

Yes, you can upload your results to GEDmatch for genealogical purposes. Currently, uploads to other platforms like FamilyTreeDNA and MyHeritage are not yet available, but we are hopeful this will change in the future.  We’ll keep you updated on any developments.

Please ensure your items are carefully packed to avoid damage during transit. We recommend using a padded envelope or small box and storing or shipping items in paper or cardboard rather than plastic. 

Plastic or other non-breathable materials can trap moisture, which may degrade the sample.

If you are sending multiple items, please ensure items are kept separate if they are not from the same source, to avoid mixtures. We recommend using smaller packaging to separate items and then packaging them together in a larger package. 

Additionally, please use a tracked shipping service and provide Genetic Legacies with the tracking information upon sending your item(s) so we can monitor delivery and ensure safe receipt

Not at all! We've successfully tested artifacts dating back well over a century, with results from items as far back as the late 1800s. Proper storage and minimal handling remain key factors for optimal results. Additionally, we utilize advanced "ancient DNA" laboratory processes, making age and degradation less of a concern for successful testing. 

We prioritize your privacy and adhere to strict data security standards. Your DNA and results will never be shared without your explicit consent and your item will be sent back to you, with tracking information provided once extraction is complete. 

Once extracted, your DNA will move to Phase 2 for deep whole genome sequencing, which provides a comprehensive genetic genealogy profile. This includes valuable information such as mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) and Y-chromosome haplogroup data. (if applicable) 

If successful, these results can be used for genealogical research, helping you explore ancestral origins and family connections. 

Our previous Phase 2 process achieved an 82% success rate. With the optimized Genetic Legacy process, we anticipate even higher success rates due to improved Phase 1 assessments, providing clearer insights to guide successful Phase 2 sequencing. 

To minimize financial risk for our clients as much as possible, we have lowered our pricing and adapted a 3 phase  process. Rather than two phases per our old structure, or requiring payment for the entire workflow upfront, we invoice per phase after approval by our laboratory director to move forward. This allows you to make informed decisions throughout the process while avoiding unnecessary costs on samples that may not ultimately be suitable for sequencing.

Standard Samples (letters, envelopes, personal items, etc.)

Phase 1 – DNA Extraction & Evaluation: Starting at $395 per sample, we extract and evaluate the DNA to determine whether sufficient genetic material is present and assess the sample's overall quality and likelihood of success. 

Phase 2 – Sequencing: If the Phase 1 results indicate the sample has a reasonable chance of success, sequencing is performed for $695.

Phase 3 – Data Processing & File Generation: If sequencing is successful, the final phase is $595. During this phase, we process the sequencing data and generate a usable DNA file suitable for downstream analysis and genetic genealogy. This phase is 100% guaranteed. 

Bone & Tooth Samples

Bone and tooth samples require substantially more time, specialized equipment, consumables, and laboratory resources during the extraction process. Because of the additional complexity involved, Phase 1 for bone and tooth samples begins at $695 per sample. Once DNA has been successfully extracted and evaluated, Phase 2 (Sequencing) is $695, and Phase 3 (Data Processing & File Generation) is $595, following the same phased approach described above.

We accept all major credit cards, ACH payments, Venmo, PayPay, Wire Transfer or check. 

For instructions on check or wire transfer, please contact Whitney@GeneticLegacies.com