Why This Jewellery Brand Turned Finland’s National Lion into a Lioness

Finland’s history (like most countries) is all about men. As are all its national symbols. Kalevala Jewellery wanted to give for women their hard-earned part in Finnish history. They redesigned the most iconic Finnish symbol: The male lion. The legendary symbol which has also become synonymous with toxic masculinity.

The Lion was turned into a beautiful Lioness of Finland - “a pacifistic and feminine celebration of Finnish womanhood,” as the agency called it in a statement online.

The jewellery was introduced to the world by the singer Alma in a social media campaign film and sent as a gift to selected influencers.

The launch film reached 2.3 million people with a media budget of €10,000. The Lioness jewellery was included in numerous influencer posts, reaching approximately 400,000 followers, and in dozens of posts by consumers. It also attracted the attention of ten media outlets, and it was seen being worn by choreographer Sonya Lindfors at the Independence Day Ball at the Presidential Palace. Total reach of the campaign was 4.8 million – impressive when you consider Finland’s population is 5.5 million.

The Lioness made record-breaking sales:

- No. 1 selling jewellery in the web store

- No. 2 bestseller in independent jewellery stores across the country

“It is not just a piece of jewelry – it’s a seed of a revolution,” said Ivalo’s statement.