Overview
Vintage bronze ring from the Kelo series designed by Finnish designer Pentti Sarpaneva. Produced in Finland during the 1970s.
The ring features a raw amethyst mounted in a sculptural bronze setting. The form reflects the visual language of Finnish brutalist jewelry of the late 1960s and 1970s.
The interior of the band carries the P. Sarpaneva mark.
Key Details
Object: Ring
Designer: Pentti Sarpaneva
Series: Kelo
Manufacturer: Turun Hopea
Country: Finland
Period: 1970s
Material: Bronze
Stone: Natural raw amethyst
Size: Adjustable
Marking: P. Sarpaneva inside the band
Design
The ring is constructed around a central raw amethyst stone with an irregular natural surface. The stone is framed by a geometric bronze structure with carved linear segments and darkened recesses.
The faceted bronze forms create a radial pattern around the stone. This construction produces strong contrasts between polished edges and darker textured areas.
The ring head is elevated above the band, giving the stone a prominent position.
Kelo Series
The Kelo collection appeared around 1970. The name refers to the Finnish word for a standing dead pine tree that has dried and hardened in northern forests.
In this series Sarpaneva combined bronze and silver with natural Finnish stones. The surfaces of the stones and metal structures were intended to echo the rough texture of weathered pine wood.
The collection forms part of the broader development of Finnish modernist jewelry in the late twentieth century.
Condition
Very good vintage condition.
Natural wear consistent with age and use
