What’s new: Kalevala x Marimekko

Recognize these flowers? The unique Marimekko x Kalevala collection brings together two Finnish design icons to celebrate creativity and craftsmanship.

If there’s one thing our team here at Design Stories loves, it’s a collaboration between true design icons! This season brings a real treat as the legendary Kalevala Koru joins forces with Marimekko. Discover the unique Kalevala x Marimekko collection and find your favorite pieces from the fascinating Unikko jewelry line.
Text: Susa Pääkkönen

BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL Unikko is perhaps the most iconic of all Marimekko patterns. Admittedly, it’s also one that tends to spark opinions. But that’s never bothered the queen of floral prints – after all, she was a rebel from the very beginning.

For those who don’t know the story behind the pattern: Unikko was born in 1964 after Armi Ratia, the founder of Marimekko, had announced in public that no floral fabrics would be made at Marimekko. However, textile designer Maija Isola was not one for rules or restrictions, and as a protest designed a complete collection of bold floral patterns – one of which was Unikko. To everyone’s surprise, including Ratia’s, it became an instant favorite.

The Kalevala x Marimekko collection celebrates the 60th anniversary of Maija Isola’s Unikko pattern.

The collection includes brooches, pendants, rings, and earrings – a range of timeless pieces designed to capture the spirit of the iconic pattern in every form.

The classic pattern celebrated its 60th anniversary last year, and in honor of the occasion, it has adorned tableware, home textiles, and clothing in numerous reinterpretations.

Now, Kalevala Koru presents perhaps the most dazzling version yet, transforming the beloved bloom into silver and bronze jewelry that beautifully bridges the worlds of art, craftsmanship, and design.

All the pieces in the series are handcrafted at Kalevala Koru’s own factory in Helsinki, using recycled silver or partially recycled bronze.

Whatever the material, the familiar floral pattern comes to life in a three-dimensional form that feels both fresh and utterly unique.

The iconic Kalevala Koru stands as one of Finland’s most cherished design houses. Its jewelry is as instantly recognizable at home as it is abroad, much like the Marimekko's Unikko pattern.

The story of Kalevala Koru began in the 1930s, when a group of visionary women, led by author Elsa Heporauta, set out to celebrate Finnish heritage by reimagining the beauty of ancient jewelry for the women of their time. In 1937, their first collection of reinterpreted historical pieces was revealed and met with immediate acclaim.

And so, Kalevala Koru was born.

From the very beginning, Kalevala Koru has supported a vision of a world built on sustainability, equality, and fairness.

The spirit of Finnish heritage continues to shine through Kalevala Koru still today. At the brand’s own factory in Helsinki, Finland, traditional goldsmithing skills and contemporary craftsmanship come together to create jewelry that feels both timeless and alive. Each piece carries echoes of the past while embracing the beauty of the present – and the promise of what’s still to come.

The timeless Unikko jewelry adds a touch of joy to both everyday moments and special occasions.

See also:

All products by Kalevala Koru >
All products by Marimekko >
What's new at Finnish Design Shop >

Images: Kalevala Koru

Published on 28 Oct, 2025

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Design Stories is the online magazine of Finnish Design Shop, created to inspire and delight design lovers everywhere. We hope you enjoy exploring with us! Let the Design Stories editorial team know of an interesting story – or send us feedback!