Kivi (meaning “stone” in Finnish) was designed by Heikki Orvola in 1988 and has since become a true Finnish design classic. Showcasing a simple and elegant form, the thick glass walls of the Kivi votive candle holders emit beautiful hues that dance off the flicker of the flame. Iittala’s glass experts create Kivi using solid color for the glass mass instead of coloring the glass from the surface, making the hues especially rich. Pop in a tealight and line the iittala Kivi Candle Holders along a dining table, mantle, windowsill and more for effortless ambiance.

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.