Kalevala Koru
Kalevala Women's Association · Finland
Kalevala Koru is a Finnish jewellery company based in Helsinki, producing gold, silver and bronze jewellery since 1937. Founded by writer Elsa Heporauta and owned by the Kalevala Women's Association, it makes its pieces at its own factory in Helsinki.
| Production began | 1937 |
|---|---|
| Incorporated | 1941 |
| Owner | Kalevala Women's Association |
| Subsidiary | Lapponia Jewelry |
| Factory | Konala, Helsinki |
| Website | kalevalashop.com |
What is Kalevala Koru?
Kalevala Koru, known by its brand name Kalevala, is a Finnish jewellery company headquartered in Helsinki. Jewellery production began in 1937 as a project started by writer Elsa Heporauta to fund a monument to the women poem singers of the Kalevala, and the company was incorporated in 1941.
History
The company is owned by the Kalevala Women's Association, a nonprofit supporting Finnish culture, and a cultural foundation manages its charitable activities. Its head designers have included Germund Paaer, Eero Rislakki, Paula Häiväoja and Börje Rajalin. Since 2005 it has owned Lapponia Jewelry as a subsidiary.
Products and positioning
Kalevala makes gold, silver and bronze jewellery. Notable designs include the Planetoid Valleys necklace by Björn Weckström, worn by Princess Leia in Star Wars, the Moon Goddess pendant and the Petrified Lake ring. Pieces are produced at the company's factory in Konala, Helsinki, combining 3D modelling with hand made wax moulds, casting and goldsmith assembly. Gold is recycled and most silver is recycled, and the jewellery carries Finland's Key Flag origin symbol.
Distribution
Kalevala sells through its own online stores, launched in 2020, a brand store on Keskuskatu in Helsinki and a factory outlet.
Why it matters
Kalevala combines cultural heritage, domestic manufacturing and recycled metals, an unusual model of nonprofit ownership in the jewellery sector.
Frequently asked questions
Who founded Kalevala Koru?
Kalevala jewellery was started in 1937 by Finnish writer Elsa Heporauta to fund a monument to the women poem singers of the Kalevala.
Where is Kalevala jewellery made?
Kalevala jewellery is made at the company's own factory in Konala, Helsinki, Finland.