Turning “Surplus” Embryos into Jewelry is “Sacred Art”

One of the Many Unintended Consequences of IVF

By Dave Andrusko
National Right to Life

A friend passed this news story along to me this morning and even though it takes an awfully lot to surprise me, this left me gaping.

There is a company in Australia that is making couples leap for joy, according to Lisa Mayoh, couples such as Belinda and Shaun Stafford who created more human embryos via IVF than they implanted.

What is the source of their “joy and comfort”? They are “turning embryos into keepsake jewelry.” And, no, I am not making this up.

“Now Ms Stafford has all of her babies with her every day – including seven embryos in her heart-shaped pendant worn close to her heart, always.”

You have to read the full story to fully appreciate what is taking place.

The couple had three children via IVF–Lachlan, 4, and 21-month-old twins Charlotte and William.

We’re told that storing the extra embryos was too expensive “and disposing of them unimaginable.” What to do?

What about later implanting some of the remaining embryos? 

“I wanted to keep having more babies but the emotional toll, plus financially it was too much,” Mrs. Stafford told Mayoh.

There was another option. “I’d heard others had planted them in the garden but we move a lot, so I couldn’t do this.” After all, she added, “I needed them with me.”

Then they heard about Baby Bird Hummingbirds’ service. What kind of jewelry did she choose? A heart pendant, “so she could carry her babies close to her heart, where they should be. She now carries her babies with her everywhere she goes.”

National Right to Life News continues

Voices for Life is an e-publication dedicated to informing and educating the public on pro-life and pro-family issues. To read our Mission Statement, use this link.  Follow us on Facebook, Google, and Pinterest.  Help us spread the pro-life message by sharing our articles on your favorite social networks.

Pregnant, need help or know someone who does?  

National Hotline: Call 1-800-712-HELP or Text 'HELPLINE' to 313131.
In Southeast Penna:  Call or text 610-626-4006  


If you or someone you know is suffering after abortion, confidential non-judgmental help is available.  Call Project Rachel's national toll-free number 888-456-HOPE (4673) or visit hopeafterabortion.org.