Jewellery that turns memories into meaning is at the centre of Reshnu Singh’s work through Little Finger Prints.
Image: Supplied
Jewellery is often seen as decoration, but for Reshnu Singh, it is something else entirely.
Through her business, Little Finger Prints, she turns personal memories into physical keepsakes made in silver, capturing moments that would otherwise fade with time.
Singh is based in Durban, where her studio operates. She said that the city influences how she thinks about connection and memory.
“Durban’s rich, diverse culture and strong sense of family and connection have played a big role in shaping my creative approach. It is a place where milestones are celebrated, and relationships are deeply valued - and that is reflected in the pieces that I create.”
Little Finger Prints focuses on turning real-life imprints into jewellery. Each piece is designed to hold a personal story rather than follow fashion trends.
The work includes fingerprints, handprints, footprints, pet paw prints and nose prints. It also includes handwritten notes and children’s drawings transformed into wearable items.
“At its heart, it is not just jewellery - it is storytelling in silver. Each piece captures a memory, whether it is a baby’s fingerprint, a loved one’s handprint or even a pet’s paw or nose print. We also create custom doodle pieces, turning handwritten notes or children’s drawings into wearable keepsakes.”
Jewellery that turns memories into meaning is at the centre of Reshnu Singh’s work through Little Finger Prints.
Image: Supplied
The studio also offers permanent jewellery, which is fitted without a clasp. Singh explained that this idea connects to relationships that are meant to last.
“In addition to this, we also offer permanent jewellery - a seamless, clasp-free experience designed to symbolise connection, commitment and meaningful bonds that last.”
Her entry into the business came from personal experience rather than a business plan. She first encountered Little Finger Prints as a customer after the birth of her first son.
“My journey with Little Finger Prints began as a customer. In 2015, I purchased a piece for Father’s Day after my first son was born, and it left a lasting impression on me.”
The business itself was founded in 2012 as one of the first personalised keepsake jewellery studios in South Africa. When it went on sale, Singh decided to take it over.
“In 2021, when I saw that the business was for sale, I knew I could not pass up the opportunity. I already understood the emotional value behind each piece and wanted to continue creating that experience for others.”
One of the designs from Little Finger Prints reflects the core idea of turning personal moments into something permanent.
Image: Supplied
The process of creating each piece is hands-on. It begins with capturing the print in detail, whether from a person or a pet.
“The process is hands-on and detail-driven. It begins with carefully capturing the fingerprint, handprint, footprint, paw print or even a pet’s nose print to preserve every fine detail.”
In more sensitive cases, she works with families and funeral homes to preserve final imprints.
“In more sensitive situations, I also work with families and funeral homes to capture prints, either by taking impressions or forming the piece directly in silver clay, allowing for a lasting and meaningful connection.”
Each piece is then made using silver clay and kiln-fired into solid 950 silver. Singh said that this is what gives the jewellery its depth.
“Unlike laser-engraved jewellery, which sits on the surface, our pieces capture the true depth and texture of each print - making every item unique.”
For Singh, the emotional value is what matters most.
“This type of jewellery goes far beyond aesthetics - it carries deep emotional meaning. Whether it is celebrating a birth, honouring a loved one, remembering a pet or preserving a final connection, these pieces become something people treasure for a lifetime.”
She said that being trusted with those memories is a responsibility she does not take lightly.
“It is an honour to create pieces that hold such lasting significance.”
Outside of the business, Singh is a mom to three boys - Neraav, Shaurav and Jahaan - and much of her inspiration comes from the everyday moments that they share.
“I’m someone who deeply values sentiment, memory and meaning, which naturally aligns with the work that I do. I am also incredibly grateful for the support of my husband, Shalen, who has been part of this journey with me.”