Tiina Arkko is a distinguished Finnish goldsmith who graduated from the Lahti Institute of Design and brings a beautifully pared-down sensibility to her creations for brand Kalevala Koru. Reflecting on her design process, Arkko states, "I prefer to remove all excess from the jewelry and let the form speak for itself." For her contributions to Finnish jewelry design, Arkko was honored as Goldsmith of the Year in 2007 by the Finnish Goldsmiths’ Association.

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.