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Kalevala

Kalevala Jewelry seeks its inspiration from the unique Finnish and Scandinavian jewelry traditions throughout the ages. Most of the Kalevala Koru models are replicas of ancient Iron Age jewelry discovered by archaeologists. Kalevala Jewelry is made from genuine sterling silver (925/000) and warmly glowing bronze. Kalevala Koru's bronze is made of an alloy of copper, tin and zinc, and is free of nickel and other allergenic material. The Kalevala Koru pieces are varnished to prevent oxidation.

More About Kalevala

Kalevala Koru originated in the 1930s by writer Elsa Heporauta, who's goal was to "bring the beauty of our foremothers' jewelry to modern women while also promoting Finnish culture." Along with a group of socially active women, they produced replicas of ancient jewelry to raise funds for a statue project dedicated to the Kalevala woman. The pieces received a successful response after being presented at a tea party hosted by the President's spouse, Kaisa Kallio, in 1937. This marked the establishment of the official brand, Kalevala Jewelry, which gained immense recognition nationally and globally.

Today, Kalevala aims to preserve the art of Finnish jewelry-making. All Kalevala jewelry is handcrafted in Helsinki, Finland. Around 70 jewelry professionals work in Kalevala's own state-of-the-art jewelry factory. Kalevala Jewelry has been granted the Avainlippu symbol as proof that the company is a Finnish jewelry manufacturer that manufactures all Kalevala jewelry in Finland. The company also strives to support charitable causes, with 1/3 of their profits going directly to charity and staff. Kalevala Jewelry is still owned by the Kalevala Women's Association, continuing the original work of Elsa Heporauta to support and empower women and girls through meaningful jewelry collections.


About Finnish Design

Finnish design has a long history and is know for simplicity, functionality, and craftsmanship. It's trademark designs emerged in the early 20th century, and gained international attention through pioneers like Alvar Aalto in architecture and furniture, as well as companies such as Iittala, Artek, and Marimekko. Their work emphasized clean lines, natural materials, and a harmonious balance between beauty and practicality. Everything must have a purpose. Iconic products like the Aalto vase, Artek’s Stool 60, and Marimekko’s bold textile patterns established Finland as a leader in modernist design. Over the next century, Finnish design became synonymous with high quality, technical skill, and timeless aesthetics—qualities that have earned it global recognition, particularly during the postwar years when Nordic design was celebrated worldwide, and still is. Today, Finnish products continue to enjoy international respect, not only for their aesthetic value but also for their reputation of reliability, thoughtful construction, and cultural authenticity.