Tassukivi

Tassukivi is a Finnish term that translates to "paw stone" or "animal stone." It refers to small, often naturally occurring stones or pebbles that have markings resembling animal paw prints. These stones are typically found in natural environments, such as forests, fields, or near bodies of water.

The markings on tassukivi are not the result of deliberate carving or artificial modification. Instead, they are formed through natural geological processes. Variations in the mineral composition of the stone, or the way it has been eroded by water and wind over long periods, can create patterns that coincidentally look like animal tracks.

In Finnish folklore and tradition, tassukivi have sometimes been associated with good luck or as a sign of the presence of animals. They might be collected by individuals as curiosities or as mementos of nature. While scientifically they are simply ordinary stones with coincidental markings, their perceived resemblance to animal tracks has given them a special place in some cultural interpretations. The term emphasizes the natural and often unexpected resemblances found in the environment.