Elis Kauppi, Modernist silver brooch, tiger's eye

Elis Kauppi, Modernist silver brooch, tiger's eyeDescription Modernist silver brooch designed by Elis Kauppi for Kupittaan Kulta, Finland, 1966. A strong linear composition centers on an elongated tigers eye cabochon set within an open geometric silver frame. The stone shows a vivid chatoyant effect: warm golden brown bands shift and glow as the angle of light changes, creating a sense of movement across the surface. The silver construction is architectural, with stepped details and clean cuts that

Description

Modernist silver brooch designed by Elis Kauppi for Kupittaan Kulta, Finland, 1966.

A strong linear composition centers on an elongated tiger’s eye cabochon set within an open geometric silver frame. The stone shows a vivid chatoyant effect: warm golden-brown bands shift and glow as the angle of light changes, creating a sense of movement across the surface. The silver construction is architectural, with stepped details and clean cuts that emphasize balance and precision while allowing light to pass through the form.

Details

• Material: Sterling silver, tiger’s eye

• Designer: Elis Kauppi

• Maker: Kupittaan Kulta

• Year: 1966

• Length: 5.1 cm

• Condition: Very good vintage condition; one microscopic nuance on the stone, visible only on close inspection

Style & Impression

The brooch reads as wearable modernist sculpture. The contrast between cool polished silver and the warm, luminous tiger’s eye gives the piece a refined but expressive presence. Its geometry recalls mid-century Nordic design, where structure, material, and light define the visual language.