- Two types of genetic testing are available. Mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), passed by mother to child without mixing, traces the maternal genealogical line and shows a shared maternal ancestor.
- Another test, called the Y-line, uses the male Y chromosome to determine relationship between two males, usually of the same surname.
- Genetic testing can demonstrate a relationship but not cannot identify its degree. Testing also demonstrates probable ethnic heritage, meaning that these tests can show that your ancestors came from a particular geographic area of the world.
- Genetic genealogical testing cannot tell you who your great-great-grandfather was or if you are a descendant of Charlemagne. Therefore, those people doing historical genealogy find the tests of limited use and instead rely on the use of documents.
- Increasingly popular and common home genetic tests are available at reasonable cost, from $100 to $400. A kit is mailed to you and a mouth swab is taken, sealed in a container and returned to the lab. Within a few weeks, a report of your mDNA or Y-line test is returned to you.
