Our story
DNArchiv was founded in Leichlingen in 2023 by Jakob Bärschneider. Its mission was to safeguard what is most precious to a person or animal: their DNA.
The founder witnessed a case involving someone close to him in which a later DNA analysis was essential in determining whether a descendant had inherited a genetic condition. Had the person’s DNA no longer been available, this determination would not have been possible. This experience inspired the idea of safeguarding a person’s DNA for the future.
The founder works with a team of experienced DNA experts who ensure the reliability of the specially developed method used to process and stabilize the DNA.
The team has tested and confirmed the long-term stability of the DNA on the rough diamond. The tests showed that almost all of the DNA remains on the diamond’s surface after processing. The small percentage that does not adhere to the rough diamond remains inside the jewelry surrounding it.
DNArchiv’s first partner was Schlage Funeral Home in Leichlingen. Its owner, Ralf Aschenbroich, added DNA jewelry to his services shortly after the company was founded. Since then, the jewelry has been tested and continuously refined locally in collaboration with him.
DNArchiv
Jakob Bärschneider
Founder
Jakob Bärschneider is the founder of DNArchiv. From an early age, he developed a strong interest in biological processes. He was particularly fascinated by DNA as the carrier of our genetic information and the biological signature that makes every person and animal unique.
Following the personal experience described above, he decided to establish DNArchiv. Alongside founding the company, he began studying law in 2022. In May 2026, he sat the examinations for Germany’s First State Examination in Law.
Dr.rer nat Frank Tschentscher
Scientific Advisor
Dr. rer. nat. Frank Tschentscher is a forensic molecular biologist with many years of expertise in DNA analysis and human genetics. During his doctoral research, he contributed to the study of Neanderthal DNA as part of the research group led by Svante Pääbo, who later received the Nobel Prize. He also worked as a visiting scientist at the FBI Laboratory in Quantico, Virginia, and with the NYPD Crime Scene Unit. He is the author of numerous scientific publications and has appeared as an expert in several television documentaries and reports, including productions by ZDF, WDR, VOX and RTL.
As Scientific Advisor, he supports DNArchiv on specialist matters relating to DNA and analytical methods.
Trust.
Responsibility.
Transparency.
We understand that handling DNA is a sensitive matter—whether it comes from a living or deceased person. That is why we treat every sample with the utmost respect, care and confidentiality.
Our promises:
- The DNA is used solely to create a personal keepsake—never for analysis or the sharing of data.
- We do not conduct genetic testing. A later analysis by an independent specialist laboratory remains technically possible but is not part of our service.
- We do not store or retain any genetic material.
- All processed DNA material is returned to the customer inside the finished piece of jewelry.
- We extract the DNA in accordance with the highest scientific and laboratory standards.
- We comply with all applicable legal requirements at every stage of the process.
Trust begins with clarity.
That is why transparency is so important to us—and why we personally guide our customers and partners through every step.