Frequently Asked Questions about GULDVIVA

What is Guldviva?

Guldviva is an Åland-based jewellery company that has designed and made jewellery in its own workshop since 1989. Our inspiration comes from nature, the sea and the archipelago around Åland. Each collection tells its own story and is made with care so it can be worn and cherished for many years.

We believe a piece of jewellery should be more than a passing accessory. It should be able to accompany its wearer through everyday life, celebrations and life's important moments. That is why we work with timeless forms, precious materials and craftsmanship built to last.

Where is your jewellery made?

Our jewellery is designed and made on Åland. Most of our production takes place in our own workshops, including in Sjökvarteret in Mariehamn and in our studio in the Åland archipelago.

By making everything ourselves we can control the quality at every step. It also means we can offer service, repairs and spare parts long after your purchase. For us, local production is not just a geographical detail but an essential part of Guldviva's identity.

Is your jewellery handmade?

Yes. Every piece goes through several manual stages carried out by our goldsmiths. Although some steps are performed with modern tools and methods, it is the craftsmanship and experience that give each piece its final quality.

A handmade piece is shaped, worked, inspected and finished by people with a feel for the material. This means small variations can occur, but that is also part of the character of handcraft.

Who designs the jewellery?

Most of our jewellery is designed by Maria Karlström, the goldsmith and designer behind Guldviva's well-known design language. Her work often draws inspiration from nature, the sea and the Åland archipelago.

The aim is not to copy nature exactly, but to capture the feeling of it. A flower, a blade of grass, the movement of a wave or a rock can become the starting point for a piece that carries a story.

What do you mean by Slow Jewellery?

For us, Slow Jewellery means creating jewellery that lasts – in both quality and design. We do not follow fast fashion trends; we design pieces that can be worn every day and gladly passed on to the next generation.

Slow Jewellery is also about responsibility. A piece of jewellery should not be something worn for one season and then forgotten. It should be possible to repair it, polish it, care for it and keep it alive.

Why is Guldviva located on Åland?

Åland is not just the place where our jewellery is made. It is also the place that shapes it.

The archipelago, the sea, the rocks, the plants and the changing seasons are a constant source of inspiration. Many of our collections carry traces of exactly that environment.

Working on Åland also means closeness to the craft. There is room here for a long-term approach, for depth, and for a design language that has grown out of the place rather than out of fast trends.

Can I visit Guldviva?

Yes. Our shop in Sjökvarteret in Mariehamn is open to visitors. There you can see our jewellery, get personal assistance, try on different models and hand in pieces for service or repair.

Many people appreciate experiencing the jewellery in person and getting advice directly from us. It is especially valuable if you are unsure about ring size, chain length or which piece would make the right gift.

What sets Guldviva apart from other jewellery companies?

What makes Guldviva unique is the combination of our own design, our own production and a strong connection to Åland and the archipelago.

We do not design jewellery based on short-lived trends; we create collections inspired by the nature around us. Because we make our jewellery ourselves, we can also offer personal service, repairs and long-term responsibility for what we sell.

When you buy a Guldviva piece you are not just buying an object. You get a piece of jewellery with a story, created to be worn for a long time.

Do you design all the jewellery yourselves?

Yes. Our collections are original designs of our own. We do not buy in ready-made models or mass-produced jewellery from external factories.

This gives every collection a clear connection to Guldviva's design language, story and craftsmanship. It also means we know exactly how each piece is constructed, which matters for future service and repairs.

Why do you tell the story behind each collection?

We believe a piece of jewellery becomes more personal when you know its background. Jewellery is often more than an accessory. It can be a reminder of a place, a person or an important moment in life.

That is why we try to give each collection a story that ties together form, nature and feeling. When someone chooses a Guldviva piece, we hope it is not only the design that appeals, but also the story behind it.

What does the name Guldviva mean?

The name Guldviva is inspired by Åland's provincial flower, the cowslip (Gullviva in Swedish) – one of the most beloved spring flowers of the North – combined with Guld, the Swedish word for gold, as in goldsmith. Just as the flower is associated with nature, beauty and the changing seasons, we want to create jewellery with a close connection to nature and the Nordic landscape.

Materials and quality

Which materials do you use?

We mainly work with sterling silver, also known as 925 silver, and 18 carat gold. The materials are chosen with great care to provide high quality and a long life.

Sterling silver is a classic jewellery material because it combines the beautiful lustre of silver with better durability than pure silver. 18 carat gold has a warm colour and a high gold content, making it a treasured material for jewellery meant to last.

Is your jewellery nickel-free?

Yes. Our jewellery is nickel-free in accordance with current regulations.

This means most people can wear our jewellery without any problems.

Is sterling silver real silver?

Yes. Sterling silver is real silver. It consists of 92.5 percent pure silver and 7.5 percent other metals, usually copper, which make the material stronger and more durable.

Pure silver is too soft for most jewellery intended for everyday wear. That is why goldsmiths have used sterling silver as the standard for quality jewellery for generations.

What does 925 mean on a silver piece?

925 means the piece is made of sterling silver. The number indicates that the material contains 925 parts per thousand of silver, in other words 92.5 percent pure silver.

The rest consists of other metals that make the piece more durable. It is the international standard for high-quality silver jewellery.

Do you use recycled silver?

Yes. We use only recycled silver. Recycled silver is of exactly the same quality as newly mined silver, but it reduces the need for new mining.

For us it is a natural choice. A piece of jewellery should not only be beautiful when it leaves the workshop, but also be created with care for the future.

Is your gold jewellery solid gold?

Yes. Our gold jewellery is made of solid 18 carat gold. It is not gold-plated.

This means the piece consists of gold alloy all the way through, not just a thin layer of gold on the surface. A solid gold piece can be worn, polished and repaired in a completely different way than a plated one.

What does 18K mean?

18K means the gold consists of 75 percent pure gold. The rest is made up of other metals that give the gold the right hardness, colour and wear resistance.

18 carat is a classic material for fine jewellery and is prized for its warm colour and high quality.

Is 18 carat gold better than 14 carat?

18 carat contains more pure gold than 14 carat and therefore has a deeper, warmer gold colour. 14 carat is harder because it contains a larger share of other metals, but 18 carat is traditionally the more exclusive material.

We use 18 carat because it is a classic material in Nordic goldsmithing and is valued for its high quality.

How do I know the jewellery is genuine?

All our jewellery is made of precious metals and hallmarked in accordance with current regulations.

You receive a piece made of sterling silver or 18 carat gold – not an imitation or a fashion accessory. If you are unsure about hallmarks, materials or care, you are always welcome to contact us.

Is silver hypoallergenic?

Most people can wear sterling silver without any problems. Our jewellery complies with EU regulations on nickel content and is nickel-free under current legislation.

If you have a very unusual metal allergy, we recommend contacting us before purchasing so we can help you choose the material that suits you best.

Does silver darken over time?

Yes. Silver reacts naturally with substances in the air and can darken over time. This is a natural process called oxidation and is a sign that the piece is made of real silver.

The dark surface can normally be polished away. A silver piece that is worn often also tends to stay brighter than one left in a box for a long time, because the surface is lightly polished against skin and clothing.

Why does silver darken on some people?

It is not the silver itself that discolours the skin, but a reaction between the skin, humidity, skincare products or substances in the surroundings.

How noticeable it is varies from person to person and can also change over time. Soap, perfume, skin creams and perspiration can affect how quickly silver reacts.

Is every piece exactly identical?

Because our jewellery is largely made by hand, small variations can occur.

This is a natural part of the craft and something many people appreciate, as each piece gains its own character. The variations do not affect the quality; they show that the piece has been worked by human hands and not mass-produced in large series.

Can silver jewellery last a lifetime?

Yes. Sterling silver is a very durable material. With normal use and regular cleaning, a silver piece can last for generations.

It can also be repaired, polished and sometimes given new life even after many years of use. That is one of the reasons precious metals have been used in jewellery for so long.

Ordering

Do I need to create an account to shop?

No. You can shop as a guest if you prefer. If you create an account it becomes easier to follow your orders and take part in our bonus programme and other member benefits.

An account can also make future purchases smoother, especially if you want to revisit previous orders or save your details.

Can I change my order after placing it?

If the order has not yet been shipped, we always try to help. Contact us as soon as possible and we will see what can be arranged.

Once an order has been packed or shipped it can be harder to make changes, but do get in touch anyway and we will help you find the best possible solution.

Can I cancel an order?

Yes, as long as the order has not already been shipped. Contact us as soon as possible.

If the order has already been shipped, our usual terms for returns and exchanges apply.

Will I receive an order confirmation?

Yes. Once your order is completed, a confirmation is sent to the email address you provided.

If you have not received it, please check your spam folder. If you cannot find it there, you are welcome to contact us and we will check that the order went through.

Can I order a piece of jewellery as a gift?

Yes. Many of our pieces are given as gifts for birthdays, christenings, confirmations, graduations, weddings, Mother's Day, Father's Day and Christmas.

You can enter a different delivery address if the piece is to be sent directly to the recipient.

Can you include a personal message?

Yes, if the option is available at checkout you can write a personal greeting in the message field and we will include it in the package.

You can also email us with any requests regarding greetings and gift wrapping.

Delivery

How long is the delivery time?

Most orders are shipped within 1–3 working days if the item is in stock.

Normal delivery times are approximately:

Finland: 2–7 working days

Sweden: 2–7 working days

Rest of Europe: 4–10 working days

Rest of the world: 5–15 working days

During holidays, campaigns or when items are made to order, delivery may take somewhat longer.

How much does shipping cost?

The shipping cost depends on the destination country, the shipping method and the order value. The current shipping cost is always shown at checkout before you complete your order.

If we offer free shipping above a certain order value, this is shown in the web shop or at checkout.

Can I track my shipment?

Yes. When your order has been shipped you will receive a message with tracking information, provided the chosen shipping method offers tracking.

If you are missing tracking information, you are welcome to contact us and we will help you.

Do you ship internationally?

Yes. We ship jewellery to large parts of the world.

The available shipping methods and delivery times depend on the destination country. Current options are shown at checkout.

What happens if my package does not arrive?

If your package has not arrived within the expected time, first check the tracking. Then contact us and we will help you investigate the shipment.

In some cases the carrier needs to carry out an investigation before the package can be replaced or resent.

Do I have to pay customs or import fees?

Not within the European Union.

To Norway and the USA we ship DDP (Delivered Duty Paid), which means the recipient does not have to pay anything extra.

If you order to another country outside the EU, customs duties, VAT or import fees may apply according to the rules of the destination country.

Returns and exchanges

Can I return a piece of jewellery?

Yes. You have the right to return your purchase in accordance with applicable consumer protection legislation and our terms of purchase. The piece must be unused and returned in its original condition together with the original packaging.

Once we have received and approved the return, the amount is refunded to the same payment method used for the purchase.

If you have any questions about a return, you are always welcome to contact us before sending the piece back.

How do I make a return?

If you wish to return a piece, please contact us first and we will help you with the instructions. Pack the piece carefully and send it to the address we provide.

Once we have received the return and confirmed that it meets the return conditions, the purchase amount is refunded as soon as possible.

How long is the withdrawal period?

You have the right of withdrawal in accordance with applicable consumer protection legislation and our current terms of purchase.

You have 14 days from receiving your order to return it, and you can exchange it up to 90 days after receipt.

Can I exchange for a different model?

If you would prefer a different piece, we are happy to help. The simplest way is often to return the first piece and place a new order, but do contact us and we will find the best solution.

If there is a price difference, it is adjusted according to the new order.

Can I exchange a ring for a different size?

Yes, if the ring is in new condition and the exchange follows our terms, we will help you exchange it for the right size.

Some rings can also be adjusted by our goldsmiths, while other models are better suited to being exchanged. Contact us and we will tell you what applies to the ring you have chosen.

How long does it take to get my money back?

We process returns as soon as they reach us. The refund is then made to the same payment method used for the purchase.

How quickly the money appears in your account depends on your bank or payment provider.

How much does a return cost?

The return cost depends on the country, the shipping method and the current return conditions. As a rule, the customer pays for the return shipping unless otherwise stated.

If the return is due to our error, our handling, or a product or manufacturing fault, we naturally cover the cost.

Ring sizes

How do I find the right ring size?

There are several ways to measure ring size. The most reliable is to measure the diameter of a ring that already fits, or to use a ring sizer. On our website you will find a guide that helps you step by step.

Keep in mind that finger size varies during the day. Fingers are often slightly slimmer in the morning and a little larger in the evening or in warm weather. It is therefore best to measure when your finger is at a normal temperature.

If you are unsure, we are happy to help. It is better to ask once too often than to have to exchange the size afterwards.

How do I measure my ring size at home?

The easiest way is to measure the inner diameter of a ring that already fits the finger on which the new ring will be worn.

You can also measure the circumference of your finger, but this method is more sensitive because paper, string or a measuring tape can easily be pulled too tight or left too loose.

For the best result, measure several times, preferably at different times of the day.

What do I do if the ring does not fit?

No problem. You can exchange it for another size in accordance with our terms. Contact us and we will help you.

If the ring is engraved, has been worn, or is a custom-made model, other rules may apply, so always get in touch before sending it back.

Do wide rings fit differently?

Yes. Wide ring bands often feel slightly smaller than narrow rings. It can therefore sometimes be a good idea to choose a slightly larger size.

A wide ring covers a larger part of the finger and therefore gives more resistance when passing over the knuckle or sitting in place. If you are hesitating between two sizes for a wide ring, the larger size is often the safer choice.

What if I am between two ring sizes?

If you are hesitating between two sizes, it is often better to choose the slightly larger one, especially if the ring is wide or if your hands tend to swell in warm weather.

If you are unsure, we are happy to give a recommendation based on the model you are interested in.

Can I have a ring resized later?

It depends on the model. Some rings can be adjusted by our goldsmiths, while others are constructed in a way that makes a size exchange the best solution.

Please contact us and we will tell you what applies to your ring.

Necklaces and chains

Is a chain included when I buy a pendant?

It depends on the piece you choose. Many of our silver pendants come with a silver chain, while gold pendants are often sold without a chain so you can choose the length and style that suits you best.

What is included is always stated on the product page.

Which chain length should I choose?

The most common length is 42 cm, which suits many people and places the pendant just below the hollow of the neck.

45 cm gives a little more room and is a popular choice if you want the piece to fall slightly lower.

50 cm or longer often works well if you want to wear the pendant over a sweater or create a more relaxed look.

The choice depends on factors such as height, neck shape and how you want to wear the piece. If you are unsure, we are happy to give a recommendation.

Can I change the chain length afterwards?

Yes. If you find that a different length would suit you better, we are happy to help you exchange the chain.

Contact us and we will tell you which lengths and models are available.

Do your pendants fit other chains too?

Yes. Most of our pendants work perfectly well with other chains, as long as the bail is large enough.

Also bear in mind that the thickness and style of the chain affect how the pendant hangs and is perceived. A thin chain gives a daintier look, while a heavier chain makes the whole more prominent.

Can I wear several necklaces together?

Absolutely. Combining necklaces of different lengths is an easy way to create a personal look.

Our jewellery has a timeless design that makes it easy to combine both with each other and with pieces you already own.

Care

How do I clean my silver jewellery?

The easiest way is to wash the piece in lukewarm water with a little mild washing-up liquid and a soft brush. Then dry it thoroughly with a soft cloth.

If needed, you can use a polish or polishing cloth intended for silver. Be careful if the piece has pearls, delicate stones or special surface finishes.

How often do I need to clean my jewellery?

It depends on how often it is worn. A piece worn daily benefits from being cleaned a few times a year.

Regular cleaning helps the piece keep its lustre longer and reduces the risk of dirt, skin cream and soap residue collecting in the details.

Why does silver turn dark?

Silver reacts naturally with sulphur compounds in the air and can therefore oxidise over time. This is completely normal and does not affect the quality of the piece.

The dark layer normally sits only on the surface and can be polished away with the right method. In some pieces, darker areas can also be a deliberate part of the design, as oxidation can accentuate details.

Can I shower with my jewellery?

We recommend taking your jewellery off when showering, bathing, using the sauna or exercising. Soap, chlorine, salt water, sweat and cosmetics can affect the piece's shine over time.

If you happen to shower with the piece occasionally, it is usually no cause for concern. Rinse it in clean water and dry it thoroughly afterwards.

Can I swim with my jewellery?

We recommend taking your jewellery off before swimming in a pool, the sea or a hot tub.

Chlorine, salt and chemicals can affect the surface over time, especially if the piece is not rinsed afterwards. Jewellery is also easily lost in water, particularly rings when your fingers get cold.

Can I sleep with my jewellery on?

You can, but we recommend taking your jewellery off at night.

This reduces wear on both the piece and the chain and keeps it beautiful for longer. Chains and earrings are easily subjected to unnecessary strain while you sleep.

Can perfume affect my jewellery?

Yes. Perfume, hairspray, skin creams and other cosmetic products can affect the surface of the piece over time.

Let perfume and skincare products dry before putting your jewellery on. A simple rule of thumb is that jewellery should be the last thing you put on and the first thing you take off.

How do I store my jewellery?

Store your jewellery dry and protected from the air when not in use. That way it stays beautiful for longer. We always include a storage pouch with our jewellery, which is ideal for keeping the piece in when it is not being worn.

If each piece is stored separately, the risk of scratches and tangling is reduced. A box, fabric pouch or jewellery organiser is better than letting pieces lie loose together.

Can I use silver polish?

Yes. Feel free to use a polish or polishing cloth intended for silver jewellery.

If the piece has pearls, stones or special details, follow the care instructions for that particular model. If you are unsure, you can always contact us before polishing.

Warranty and service

Do you offer a warranty?

Yes. If a piece turns out to have a manufacturing fault, we will of course help you in accordance with applicable consumer legislation and our warranty terms.

The warranty does not cover normal wear, accidents or damage caused by incorrect use, but please contact us and we will assess each case.

Can you repair a piece of jewellery?

Yes. Because we make our jewellery ourselves, we can repair many pieces even after years of use.

It may involve replacing a chain, mending a clasp, adjusting a ring, polishing the surface or fixing other damage. Feel free to contact us with a photo and a description and we can give you an initial assessment.

Can you repair older Guldviva pieces?

Yes. Because we design and make our jewellery ourselves, we can often repair or restore even older models.

If spare parts are no longer available, we try to find the best possible solution. In many cases an older piece can be given new life without erasing its history.

Can you polish my jewellery?

Yes. We offer free polishing on all our jewellery so it regains its lustre.

Sometimes a simple cleaning is enough. In other cases the piece may need a more thorough going-over in the workshop. We always try to preserve the character of the piece while freshening it up.

How much does a repair cost?

It depends on what needs to be done. Contact us or send in the piece and we will provide a cost estimate before starting the work.

A simple polish costs less than a more extensive repair. We never begin larger jobs without your approval of the cost first.

How do I send in a piece for repair?

Contact us first and describe what has happened. Please include photos.

Once we know more, we will give you instructions on how to send the piece. Always pack it carefully and use a trackable shipping method.

Payment

Which payment methods do you offer?

We offer several secure payment options. Which methods are shown depends on the country you are shopping from and may include card payment, Klarna, Apple Pay, Google Pay and other local payment solutions.

The current options are always shown at checkout.

Is it safe to shop with you?

Yes. All payments are handled via secure, encrypted payment solutions. We never store your card details.

You can always contact us if you are unsure about anything relating to your order.

When is the payment charged?

Payment is handled according to the terms of the payment method you have chosen. For card purchases, the amount is normally reserved or charged when the order is placed.

If you choose invoice or part payment, the payment provider's own terms apply.

Gifts

Can you gift wrap the jewellery?

Yes. We offer gift wrapping so the piece is ready to give straight away. Select it directly on each product before adding it to your basket.

A piece of jewellery is often a personal gift and we want the experience to feel beautiful from the moment the package is opened.

Can you send the gift directly to the recipient?

Yes. Enter the recipient's delivery address when you order.

If you wish, we can also include a personal greeting, where that option is available when ordering.

Do you include a receipt in the package?

We usually include a receipt. For gift purchases we try to avoid including anything that shows the price. The full receipt is instead sent digitally to the person who placed the order.

Is your jewellery appreciated as a gift?

Yes. Many of our pieces are given for christenings, confirmations, graduations, birthdays, weddings, Mother's Day, Father's Day and Christmas.

Because they are made of real silver and gold, they often become keepsakes that stay with the wearer for a long time.

What makes a good jewellery gift?

It naturally depends on the recipient, but many choose a necklace or a pair of earrings because they are easy to wear and require no sizing.

Rings are also much appreciated, especially if you know the right size. If you are unsure, a gift card is a safe alternative.

Which piece suits a graduation?

Many choose a timeless piece that can be worn both every day and on festive occasions.

A piece in real silver or gold often becomes a memory of the day that can stay with the wearer for many years. It does not need to be large or showy. The most important thing is that it feels personal and made to last.

What makes a good morning gift?

A morning gift – a Nordic wedding tradition – is often a piece of jewellery with personal meaning.

Many choose a symbol from nature or a motif that says something about the couple's shared history. A handmade piece becomes a lasting memory of one of life's greatest days.

How do I choose jewellery for someone else?

Think about the style the person usually wears.

Some people like discreet, delicate pieces, while others prefer larger models. Take a look at the jewellery the person already wears. Is it silver or gold? Small or bold? Classic or more expressive?

If you are unsure, a necklace, a pair of earrings or a gift card is often a safe choice.

The customer club

What is Guldviva's customer club?

As a member of Guldviva's customer club you earn bonus on your purchases and get access to selected offers and news about collections.

Membership is free of charge.

How do the bonus points work?

When you shop, you collect bonus points that can later be used as a discount on future purchases.

Current terms and bonus levels can be found on our website or in your member account.

How do I use my bonus points?

Once you have enough points, they can be converted into a discount code to use at checkout.

How to do this is explained in the customer club or in your member account.

How long are the bonus points valid?

Bonus points are valid for a limited time according to the current membership terms, currently 2 years. In your member account you can see how many points you have and when they expire.

Sustainability

Why do you use recycled silver?

Recycled silver is of exactly the same quality as newly mined silver but requires considerably less mining. That makes it a natural choice for us.

For us, sustainability is also about longevity. A piece that lasts, can be repaired and keeps being worn is fundamentally a more responsible piece than something quickly replaced.

How long does a Guldviva piece last?

Our jewellery is made to be worn for many years. With normal care it can last for generations and can usually be repaired if damaged.

Silver and gold are materials that can be polished, mended and cared for. That is one of the reasons they have been used in jewellery for so long.

Can old Guldviva pieces be repaired?

Yes. Because we design and make our jewellery ourselves, we can often repair or restore even older models.

If spare parts are no longer available, we try to find the best possible solution. Sometimes it is a matter of restoring the piece, sometimes of preserving its character and making it wearable again.

Do you still make older models?

Many of our classic collections are still available, while others have been discontinued.

In some cases we can still help with spare parts or repairs. Feel free to contact us if you are looking for an older model or need help with a piece you already own.

Why does handmade jewellery cost more?

When you buy a handmade piece, you are paying not only for the material but also for design, craftsmanship, experience and local production.

Every piece goes through many stages of work before it is finished and is made with the ambition of being worn for a long time. That makes a difference – in the feeling, the quality and the possibility of repairing the piece in the future.

The collections

What inspires your jewellery collections?

Most of our collections have their origins in the nature and archipelago of Åland. The sea, the plants, the rocks and the changing seasons recur constantly in our design.

We do not simply try to depict nature, but to capture the feeling of being close to it – the calm, the movement and the small details easily lost in everyday life. That is why each collection tells its own story.

Is your jewellery inspired by real plants and places?

Yes. Many of our pieces are based on real plants, flowers and environments from Åland. The forms are interpreted artistically, but the inspiration often comes from something you can experience in nature.

A collection can begin with a leaf, a flower, a movement in the water or the feeling of a particular place.

Is Stormskärs Maja an official collection?

Yes. The Stormskärs Maja collection was created in collaboration with the Åland Cultural Foundation, which holds the rights to Anni Blomqvist's literary work Stormskärs Maja, and is a tribute to the sea and life in the archipelago.

The collection takes its form from the soft movements of eelgrass beneath the surface – one of the Baltic Sea's important habitats.

Why is Stormskärs Maja inspired by eelgrass?

Eelgrass is an important plant in the Baltic Sea. It provides shelter for fish and other animals, binds bottom sediment and contributes to a living marine environment.

When Maria Karlström created the collection, she was fascinated by how eelgrass moves slowly in the sea currents. The soft lines became the basis for the organic forms of the jewellery.

What does Blomman symbolise?

Blomman (The Flower) is one of Guldviva's best-known collections. It symbolises the simplicity, beauty and vitality of nature, and is an invitation to live mindfully.

The design is deliberately clean and timeless, which is why many choose Blomman as a piece to wear every day or to give at life's great occasions.

Can I combine different collections?

Absolutely. Our collections are designed to work both on their own and together.

Many people combine, for example, a necklace from one collection with earrings or a ring from another. Because the design language often stems from nature, many models go beautifully together.

Are the collections available in both silver and gold?

Many of our most popular models are available in both sterling silver and 18 carat gold. The materials offered are shown on each product page.

If a model is not available in the material you are looking for, you are welcome to contact us and ask what is possible.

Can Stormskärs Maja be worn every day?

Yes. Stormskärs Maja is created to be worn both every day and on special occasions.

As with all jewellery, we recommend taking it off when showering, swimming, exercising or doing heavy physical work to reduce wear.

Is Blomman suitable as a graduation gift?

Yes. Blomman is a timeless motif that works very well as a graduation gift or a memento of an important day.

It is simple, symbolic and easy to wear, which makes it a safe choice even when buying jewellery for someone else.

Wearing the jewellery

Can I wear my jewellery every day?

Yes. Our jewellery is created to be worn, not just saved for special occasions.

We do, however, recommend taking it off during heavy physical work, exercise, gardening and contact with strong chemicals to reduce the risk of wear.

A piece that is worn often gains natural traces of life. That is not necessarily a bad thing, but part of the piece's story.

Can I wear jewellery at work?

Yes, in most cases. Choose your jewellery based on the work you do.

If you work with your hands, machines, chemicals or in healthcare, it may be wise to take off rings and bracelets during the working day. Necklaces and earrings are usually subject to less wear, but there too it depends on the work situation.

Can I exercise with jewellery on?

We recommend taking your jewellery off when exercising.

Sweat, knocks, pulling and movement can wear on both pieces and chains. Rings can also be damaged if you lift weights or grip equipment firmly.

Can children wear your jewellery?

Some pieces can suit children, especially as christening gifts or keepsakes, but jewellery for children should always be chosen with care.

Small children should not wear jewellery unsupervised, as chains and small parts can pose risks. Please contact us if you would like help choosing a piece for a child.

More common questions

What is the difference between silver and sterling silver?

Silver is the element itself. Sterling silver is an alloy consisting of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent other metals.

Pure silver is soft and rarely suitable for jewellery worn often. Sterling silver is stronger and more durable, while retaining silver's beautiful lustre.

What is the difference between silver and white gold?

Silver and white gold are two completely different materials. Silver is a precious metal in its own right, while white gold is gold alloyed with other metals to give it a lighter colour.

White gold is normally more expensive than silver because it contains gold. Silver has a cooler, clearer tone, while white gold often has a more muted colour, especially if it is rhodium-plated.

Can you shower with silver jewellery?

It is best avoided. An occasional shower will not normally ruin a silver piece, but soap, shampoo, conditioner and water can affect the surface over time and make the piece lose its lustre faster.

Take the piece off before showering and put it back on when your skin is dry.

How do you prevent silver from turning black?

You cannot entirely prevent silver from oxidising, but you can slow the process down.

Store the piece somewhere dry, preferably in a box or pouch. Avoid exposing it to perfume, hairspray, skin cream, chlorine and strong chemicals. Wear the piece regularly, as light friction against skin and clothing can help keep the surface bright.

How do you clean silver jewellery at home?

Wash the piece in lukewarm water with a little mild washing-up liquid. Use a soft brush if the piece has details where dirt collects. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft cloth.

If the piece is still dark, you can use a polishing cloth or a silver polish intended for jewellery.

Is handmade jewellery worth the price?

Yes, if you value quality, durability, design and the possibility of service over time.

A handmade piece costs more because more work goes into it. Someone has designed, worked, inspected and finished the piece with care. It is not only the material that determines the value, but also the craftsmanship and the lifespan.

How long does a silver piece last?

A good-quality silver piece can last for many years, often for generations, if it is worn and cared for properly.

It may need to be polished, repaired or have parts replaced over time, but the material itself is very durable. That is one of the reasons silver has been a treasured jewellery material for so long.

What is a timeless piece of jewellery?

A timeless piece is one that does not depend on a short-lived trend. It has a form, a material and an expression that can feel relevant for many years.

Timeless jewellery is often simple enough to be worn often, yet personal enough to feel meaningful. Nature-inspired forms, precious materials and well-balanced proportions often help a piece endure aesthetically over time.

What is a good 50th birthday gift?

A good 50th birthday gift is something that feels thoughtful and lasting. A piece in silver or gold works well because it can be worn for a long time and serve as a reminder of the day.

Many choose a necklace, a pair of earrings or a ring with symbolism that suits the recipient. If you are unsure about style or size, a gift card can be a safe choice.

What is a good confirmation gift?

A piece of jewellery is a classic confirmation gift because it marks an important day and can stay with the recipient for a long time.

A delicate necklace, a pair of earrings or a piece with personal symbolism is often appreciated. Choose something timeless that will still work as the person grows older.

What is a good christening gift?

A christening gift should ideally be something that can be kept for a long time. A piece in real silver or gold can become a memory that follows the child through life.

Since small children should not always wear jewellery straight away, christening gifts are often chosen as keepsakes to be saved for later.

Contact and help

Can I contact you if I have questions?

Of course. We are happy to help with everything from choosing a piece and finding your ring size to delivery questions and repairs.

You are welcome to contact us by email or phone, or visit our shop in Sjökvarteret in Mariehamn.

Why do so many choose to buy directly from Guldviva?

When you buy directly from us, you get access to our full range, the latest collections and personal help from the people behind the jewellery.

Because we design and make our jewellery ourselves, we can also advise on sizes, materials, care and future service.

Where is my jewellery from?

Guldviva was born in Åland in 1989, and has been made here ever since. For us, it has always been important to have full control over the entire manufacturing process, where jewellery production and sales go hand in hand. This way, we can ensure the highest quality and personal service. You always know where your jewellery comes from – from here in Åland.

Åland, my home and source of inspiration

Guldviva’s founder, head goldsmith and designer, Maria Karlström, is the soul behind the jewelry. For her, Åland is more than her story and home; it is her greatest source of inspiration.

— For me, Åland has always been my great sense of security. This is where I can breathe in the calm, live and create. I have always made jewelry based on my love for Åland, my home. Our nature here is so beautiful, and I have always seen jewelry all around me. That’s why it has also been important to me that the entire production takes place right here, because this is where the whole creation happens – from idea to piece of jewelry. That way I can also ensure that our quality is maintained and permeates the entire craftsmanship.

Maria still masters the entire process – from raw metal to finished piece – in her own workshop. Her philosophy is based on combining traditional techniques with a personal story. New methods are important, but it is classic craftsmanship that makes it possible to create jewellery that both works in practice and stands out from the crowd.

The award Goldsmith of the Year 2025 is far from Maria’s first success. She has previously won the competition Most Beautiful Ring of the Year (2022 and 2024), received Åland’s 75th Anniversary Medal, and was named Ålander of the Year for Positive Attitude (2008).