And so it unfurled its petals, the very first BLOMMAN™
In common parlance, it's referred to as the Åland Flower, and many associate it with the cowslip, the national flower of Åland. For us, BLOMMAN™ is so significant that we've chosen to trademark it. That's why it's always topped off with a little TM at the end.
The first BLOMMAN™ blossomed at Guldviva in 1992, and since then, it has bloomed throughout the years, in summer, autumn, winter, and spring. It stands as a symbol of simplicity and the self-evident. With its five hand-forged curves, it forms a shape that so many adore.
A Crafted Experience to the Touch
Our unique flower was born in the playful relationship between hand, silver wire, and pliers. Since it's handcrafted, no two are quite the same. The grip of the pliers on the silver wire varies. A bend. Four more. One loop becomes slightly larger or smaller than another. Then, a facet is forged onto each petal. These facets capture light, making BLOMMAN™ sparkle in the sun. For Guldviva's lead goldsmith, Maria Karlström, the loops are ingrained in her muscle memory. The jewellery takes shape without her even needing to look at her hands.
– Of all the jewellery I've made over the years, it's BLOMMAN™ I wear the most. I always come back to it, says Maria. And she's not the only one.
Our Customers Share
Loving Moments with BLOMMAN™
For many, BLOMMAN™ has become somewhat of a symbol for Åland. A hallmark of our small and beautiful island. For some, it signifies friendship, and for others, it's a conversation starter for new acquaintances. Indeed, for some, even a tattoo.
Here, we've gathered some of the wonderful stories from our customers about their relationship with BLOMMAN™, and why this piece of jewellery holds a special place in their hearts!
To me BLOMMAN™ is a symbol of courage
I was born at the same time as BLOMMAN™ and we formed a special bond when I moved to Åland. I wear my jewellery wherever I go, finding comfort in the knowledge that BLOMMAN™ is always with me, as a part of me.
To me, Guldviva's BLOMMAN™ also represents courage. I dared to leave one life to move to another. Throughout life's winding path, I know that BLOMMAN™ is always there, supporting my decisions, giving me the courage to truly blossom.
A BLOMMAN™ piece is also the perfect gift for all of life's various stages and milestones. I love giving my loved ones their own BLOMMAN™, so they too can feel empowered to bloom.
Anna Ingman, Jomala
Connecting with Family on the Other Side of the World
I've lived in Åland since 1992, but originally I'm from Denham in New South Wales, Australia. In Åland, I discovered Guldviva's BLOMMAN™, which I have since given as a gift to all the female members of my family: my mother, sister, sister-in-law, niece, and my sister's daughter-in-law.
When they later visited me, we naturally made a stop at the Guldviva store. There, they purchased the larger BLOMMAN™ to wear alongside the smaller one.
To me, BLOMMAN™ is a symbol of Åland, but also of my family on the other side of the world.
Tracey Nyholm, Åland
Reminder of Friendship and History
In 1941, during the Winter War, I was sent to Sweden as a war child at just 5 years old. Fortunately, I soon befriended Margaretha, who became my best friend and playmate. Our differing languages did not impede our bond. Together, we played, laughed, and shared dreams. Sadly, our paths diverged when I returned to Finland. Still, the cherished memories we forged, like gathering large yellow bouquets of cowslips for our mothers every spring, remain indestructible.
65 years later, after some detective work, I found Margaretha. We reconnected, and she came to Åland in the spring when the cowslips were in full bloom. Later, when I visited her in Sweden, I brought along the BLOMMAN™ jewellery from Guldviva. It was the best gift I've given a dear friend — a lovely reminder of our friendship and shared history.
Sirkka-Lisa Westergård, Kvarnbo, Åland
Jewellery that Often Sparks Conversation
I've lived in the Netherlands for a long time but also spent many years in Skåne, and it's specifically BLOMMAN™ that connects me with Ålanders and Finland-Swedes. It's a lovely piece of jewellery that I wear with pride, and it often leads to contact and conversation.
Annette Strömbäck, Netherlands
The Flower that Brought Us Together
Once in Stockholm, as I was walking to the nursery to pick up my grandchildren, I met a grandmother who was also there for her grandchild. What prompted me to speak to her was the necklace she was wearing – BLOMMAN™. The same one I was wearing too. She told me that a friend had given it to her. It's amazing how a piece of jewellery can bring two people together like that.
Inga Ekblom, Stockholm
BLOMMAN™ was my first tattoo.
When, 17 years ago, I decided to get my first tattoo, it was clear that it had to be BLOMMAN™! To me, it represents Åland and symbolises my love for the island. The tattoo artist replicated my necklace, and now it's there on my arm, and I adore it.
Viveca Andersson