Koristekivenä

Koristekivenä is a Finnish term that means “as a decorative stone.” It refers to the role or function of a stone in decoration, rather than to a specific rock type. The word is formed from the noun koristet kivi (decorative stone) with the adverbial suffix -nä, which denotes the stone’s intended use in a given context.

In practice, koristekivenä describes how a stone is employed in landscapes, architecture, and interior design. Stones placed along garden borders, in rock gardens, around water features, as part of pathways, or used in pots and planters can be described as being used koristekivenä. The term emphasizes appearance and design rather than geological classification.

The concept does not specify a particular material; any suitable natural stone can be used dekoratively. Common choices include granite, limestone, slate, and river stones, as well as polished or tumbled pebbles. The key consideration is how the stone contributes to the aesthetic, texture, color contrast, and overall composition of the space.

Handling and maintenance depend on the material. Outdoor decorative stones should be placed on a stable base with proper drainage, and may require periodic cleaning to remove soil buildup or algae. Some stones are sealed to protect surface color and porosity, while others are left natural. Proper selection and placement help ensure long-lasting decorative effect.

See also: decorative stone, landscaping, rock garden, garden design.