Kasper von Wuthenau is a much-loved fixture of Tankavaara, the historic gold-panning village deep in Sodankylä's Lapland wilds. A German-born geologist and goldsmith who has spent decades among Lapland's gold fields — and who famously made Finland's first diamond discovery — he guides visitors through the Gold Museum, the gold claims and the surrounding nature, and handcrafts his own gold and silver jewellery.
Meeting Kasper is a real highlight of a Tankavaara visit: he leads groups around the goldfields and museum with infectious enthusiasm and deep knowledge, and his handmade jewellery — sold at Nugget Square in the village — makes for a genuinely special, story-rich souvenir. It is a wonderfully personal, characterful way into the folklore and geology of Lapland's gold rush.
Local tip: It is all based at the Tankavaara Gold Village in Sodankylä, so plan your visit around the village's season and check ahead for guided tours. Try a spot of gold panning yourself, and look for Kasper's jewellery at Nugget Square.
Good to know
- Where: Tankavaara Gold Village, Sodankylä
- City: Sodankyla