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Finding the ideal wedding anniversary gift can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t need to be a shot in the dark. While choosing something your partner will love is always a great approach, adding a layer of sentimentality by referencing Traditional And Modern Anniversary Gifts by year can make your present even more meaningful.
This comprehensive guide explores the fascinating history of wedding anniversary traditions and provides a curated list of gift suggestions for each year. Discover the symbolic meaning behind traditional anniversary gifts and their modern counterparts, alongside associated gemstones and flowers, offering a wealth of inspiration for your perfect anniversary present.
Whether you are celebrating your own milestone or searching for the perfect gift for a loved one’s anniversary, our guide to traditional and modern anniversary gifts will provide all the essential information you need to make a thoughtful and memorable choice.
Decoding Anniversary Names & Gifts: A Journey Through Tradition and Modernity
In a rush? Jump directly to the anniversary year you’re interested in:
Wedding Anniversary Themes: Traditional vs. Modern
For centuries, marking wedding anniversaries with specific gifts has been a cherished custom. The tradition of associating materials with anniversary years can be traced back to medieval Germany, where silver wreaths were given for the 25th anniversary and gold for the 50th. By the Victorian era, this list expanded to include more years, each with a symbolic material representing the evolving strength and character of the marriage.
In 1937, the American National Retail Jeweler Association formalized and popularized a more comprehensive list, adding both traditional and modern anniversary gifts for each year up to the 20th, and then for every fifth year thereafter. This standardization helped couples navigate gift-giving and deepened the symbolism associated with each milestone.
Traditional anniversary gifts often reflect materials that increase in strength and value over time, mirroring the growth and resilience of a marriage. For example, early years are represented by materials like paper and cotton, symbolizing the newness and adaptability of the union. As the years progress, the materials become stronger and more precious, such as wood, iron, silver, gold, and diamond, signifying the increasing durability, strength, and preciousness of the relationship.
Modern anniversary gifts were introduced to offer contemporary alternatives that align with modern tastes and lifestyles. While retaining some of the symbolic meaning of the traditional gifts, the modern anniversary gifts provide a wider range of options, often focusing on practicality and current trends. For instance, the modern anniversary gift for the first year is a clock, symbolizing timeless love, while the traditional gift is paper.
Here’s a detailed list of traditional anniversary names alongside their modern gift alternatives, spanning from the first to the 90th anniversary:
| Year | Traditional Anniversary Name | Modern Alternative |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Paper | Clock |
| 2nd | Cotton | China |
| 3rd | Leather | Crystal/Glass |
| 4th | Fruit/Flowers | Linen |
| 5th | Wood | Silverware |
| 6th | Sugar/Confectionery | Iron |
| 7th | Copper/Wool | Stationery |
| 8th | Bronze | Linen/Lace |
| 9th | Willow/Pottery | Leather |
| 10th | Tin/Aluminum | Diamond |
| 11th | Steel | Fashion Jewelry |
| 12th | Silk/Linen | Pearls |
| 13th | Lace | Textiles/Fur |
| 14th | Ivory | Gold Jewelry |
| 15th | Crystal | Watches |
| 16th | Wax | Silver Holloware |
| 17th | – | Furniture |
| 18th | – | Porcelain |
| 19th | – | Bronze |
| 20th | China | Platinum |
| 25th | Silver | Silver |
| 30th | Pearl | Diamond |
| 35th | Coral | Jade |
| 40th | Ruby | Ruby |
| 45th | Sapphire | Sapphire |
| 50th | Gold | Gold |
| 55th | Emerald | Emerald |
| 60th | Diamond | Diamond |
| 65th | Blue Sapphire | – |
| 70th | Platinum | – |
| 75th | Diamond (Original) | – |
| 80th | Oak | – |
| 85th | Wine | – |
| 90th | Granite/Stone | – |
Note: There are no officially recognized names for the 17th, 18th, and 19th wedding anniversaries. The next major milestone after the 16th is the 20th anniversary, and then anniversaries are typically celebrated every five years.
Anniversary Gifts by Year: From 1st to 10th – Building a Strong Foundation
Whether you are celebrating your first year together or reaching a decade of love, these traditional and modern anniversary gift suggestions will help you mark each milestone in a special way.
1st Wedding Anniversary – Paper: Fresh Beginnings
Traditional Gift: Paper, the traditional anniversary gift for the first year, symbolizes a blank page ready to be filled with your shared story. It also represents the delicate and nascent stage of a marriage, full of potential and new beginnings. Historically, paper was also considered a valuable material, reflecting the preciousness of a new union.
Gift Ideas:
- Experiences as Paper Gifts: Embrace the symbolism of paper by gifting experiences! Tickets to a concert, play, or sporting event cleverly fit the theme. Consider Virgin Experience Days for a wide array of options, from romantic getaways to culinary adventures.
- Personalized Paper Art: Commission a custom paper portrait, a map of a significant location in your relationship, or a piece of calligraphic art featuring your wedding vows.
- Luxury Stationery: High-quality stationery sets, personalized notebooks, or elegant pens make sophisticated paper gifts.
- Books: A first edition of a favorite book, a photo album to fill with your first-year memories, or a subscription to a literary magazine are thoughtful choices.
Modern Gift: Clocks, the modern 1st anniversary gift, represent the timeless nature of your love and your journey together through time. Carnations are the associated flower, symbolizing passion and new love, while gold is the anniversary color.
Gift Ideas:
- Elegant Timepieces: A stylish watch for him or her, a beautiful wall clock for your home, or a unique grandfather clock can all serve as lasting symbols of your first year.
- Floral Clock with Carnations: Combine the modern and floral themes with a clock featuring carnation motifs or a bouquet of carnations alongside a clock-themed gift.
- Gold Accented Clock: Choose a clock with gold accents to incorporate the anniversary color.
2nd Wedding Anniversary – Cotton: Comfort and Intertwining Lives
Traditional Gift: Cotton, the traditional 2nd anniversary gift, symbolizes comfort, strength, and the intertwining of your lives. Like the interwoven threads of cotton, your lives are becoming more connected and resilient.
Gift Ideas:
- Luxury Cotton Bedding: High-thread-count cotton sheets, duvet covers, or pillowcases from The White Company offer luxurious comfort.
- Personalized Cotton Robes: Matching or personalized cotton robes are perfect for cozy evenings together.
- Cotton Clothing or Accessories: A soft cotton sweater, a stylish cotton scarf, or comfortable cotton pajamas are practical and thoughtful.
- Cotton Flowers: Consider unique cotton blooms from Little Foundry for a long-lasting floral alternative.
Modern Gift: China, the modern 2nd anniversary gift, represents the delicate beauty and preciousness of your growing relationship. Red is the associated color, and cosmos flowers are the symbolic blooms.
Gift Ideas:
- Elegant China Dinnerware: Upgrade your dinnerware with a beautiful china set, perhaps with a floral print or red accents.
- China Vase with Cosmos Flowers: A stunning china vase filled with vibrant cosmos flowers creates a visually appealing and symbolic gift.
- Decorative China: Consider decorative china pieces like figurines, trinket boxes, or wall plates to add elegance to your home.
3rd Wedding Anniversary – Leather: Durable and Protective Love
Traditional Gift: Leather, the traditional 3rd anniversary gift, embodies durability, protection, and the strength your marriage has developed. Leather’s resilience reflects the enduring nature of your bond and how you protect and support each other.
Gift Ideas:
- Timeless Leather Accessories: A classic leather handbag, wallet, belt, or shoes are always appreciated. Aspinal of London offers a range of luxurious leather goods that can be personalized.
- Leather Home Décor: Leather photo frames, desk accessories, or even a leather armchair add a touch of sophistication to your home.
- Personalized Leather Gifts: Monogrammed leather journals, keychains, or luggage tags add a personal touch.
- Leather Experiences: Tickets to a leather crafting workshop or a weekend getaway to a leather-producing region can be unique and memorable.
Modern Gift: Crystal or Glass, the modern 3rd anniversary gift, represents the clarity and brilliance of your love, and the many facets of your relationship. Sunflowers are the associated flower, symbolizing warmth and happiness.
Gift Ideas:
- Crystal Barware or Glassware: Elegant crystal glasses, decanters, or a stylish glass ice bucket elevate your home bar.
- Crystal Home Décor: Crystal vases, bowls, or decorative objects add sparkle and sophistication.
- Experiences with Crystal/Glass: A visit to a glassblowing studio, a wine tasting experience with crystal glasses, or a trip to a city known for its glass art can be unique experiences.
- Sunflower Bouquet with Crystal Vase: Combine the modern and floral themes with a vibrant sunflower bouquet presented in a beautiful crystal vase.
4th Wedding Anniversary – Fruit & Flowers: Blossoming and Ripening Together
Traditional Gift: Fruit and Flowers, the traditional 4th anniversary gift, symbolize a marriage in full bloom, representing growth, blossoming love, and the fruits of your relationship. It signifies a partnership that is ripening and becoming richer with time.
Gift Ideas:
- Fruit Baskets and Gourmet Treats: Luxury fruit baskets, gourmet chocolates with fruit infusions, or artisanal jams and preserves are delightful and thematic.
- Floral Subscriptions: A flower subscription from Bloom & Wild ensures a continuous reminder of your blossoming love throughout the year.
- Gardening Gifts: Potted fruit trees, flowering plants, or gardening tools for couples who enjoy spending time outdoors.
- Experiences in Nature: A picnic in a botanical garden, a fruit-picking excursion, or a flower arranging class can be enjoyable and thematic experiences.
Modern Gift: Linen or Silk, the modern 4th anniversary gift, represents comfort and luxury. Appliances are also a modern alternative 4th anniversary gift, symbolizing domestic comfort and shared home life.
Gift Ideas:
- Luxury Linen Bedding or Tablecloths: High-quality linen sheets, duvet covers, or elegant tablecloths add a touch of luxury to your home.
- Silk Pajamas or Robes: Luxurious silk pajamas or robes offer comfort and indulgence.
- High-End Appliances: A new coffee machine, blender, or kitchen gadget can be a practical and appreciated gift, particularly if it’s something you can enjoy together.
5th Wedding Anniversary – Wood: Deep Roots and Enduring Strength
Traditional Gift: Wood, the traditional 5th anniversary gift, symbolizes strength, wisdom, and deep roots. Like a strong tree, your marriage has grown sturdy and resilient over five years.
Gift Ideas:
- Wooden Home Décor: Personalized wooden signs, engraved cutting boards, wooden serving trays, or decorative wooden bowls add warmth and character to your home.
- Wooden Furniture: A beautiful wooden bench for the garden, a stylish coffee table, or a set of wooden chairs are lasting gifts.
- Personalized Wooden Gifts: Engraved wooden photo frames, wooden signpost art from No Ordinary Gift Company, or a personalised oak bottle box from Sophia Victoria Joy are thoughtful choices.
- Experiences in Nature: A weekend cabin getaway, a tree planting ceremony, or a hike in a forest are nature-inspired experiences.
Modern Gift: Silverware, the modern 5th anniversary gift, represents the value and lasting quality of your relationship. Daisies are the associated flower, symbolizing fidelity and enduring love.
Gift Ideas:
- Elegant Silverware Set: A new set of silverware, perhaps engraved with your initials or anniversary date, is a practical and luxurious gift.
- Silver Home Décor: Silver picture frames, candlesticks, or decorative bowls add a touch of elegance.
- Daisy Bouquet with Silver Vase: Combine the modern and floral themes with a cheerful daisy bouquet presented in a silver vase.
6th Wedding Anniversary – Sugar/Confectionery: The Sweetness of Life Together
Traditional Gift: Sugar or Confectionery, the traditional 6th anniversary gift, symbolizes the sweetness and delightful moments you share in your marriage. It’s a time to celebrate the joys and pleasures of your life together.
Gift Ideas:
- Gourmet Chocolates and Candies: Luxury chocolates from Hotel Chocolat, artisanal candies, or a custom-made cake.
- Romantic Dessert Experiences: An afternoon tea experience from Virgin Experience Days, a chocolate-making class, or a dessert tasting menu.
- Personalized Sweet Treats: Customized cookies, candies with your names or anniversary date, or a homemade dessert are thoughtful and personal.
Modern Gift: Iron, the modern 6th anniversary gift, represents strength, durability, and resilience. Calla lilies are the associated flower, symbolizing beauty and devotion.
Gift Ideas:
- Cast Iron Cookware: High-quality cast iron skillets, Dutch ovens, or grill pans for the home chef.
- Iron Home Décor: Wrought iron candle holders, decorative iron sculptures, or an iron fireplace set.
- Calla Lily Bouquet with Iron Vase: Combine the modern and floral themes with elegant calla lilies in a stylish iron vase.
7th Wedding Anniversary – Copper/Wool: Warmth, Comfort, and Prosperity
Traditional Gift: Copper and Wool, the traditional 7th anniversary gifts, symbolize warmth, comfort, and prosperity. Copper is known for conducting heat, representing the warmth and comfort of your marriage, while wool signifies coziness and security.
Gift Ideas:
- Copper Kitchenware or Barware: Copper mugs from The Alphabet Gift Shop, copper cookware, or stylish copper bar tools.
- Woolen Blankets or Throws: A luxurious cashmere or wool throw from The White Company for cozy evenings at home.
- Wool Clothing or Accessories: A warm wool sweater, a stylish wool scarf, or comfortable wool socks.
- Copper Jewelry: Copper bracelets, necklaces, or earrings offer a unique and meaningful touch.
Modern Gift: Stationery, the modern 7th anniversary gift, symbolizes the work and dedication you have both invested in your marriage. It also represents communication and shared goals.
Gift Ideas:
- Luxury Stationery Sets: High-quality stationery sets, personalized notepads, or elegant desk organizers for a home office upgrade.
- Desk Accessories: Stylish desk lamps, pen holders, or leather desk pads to enhance a workspace.
- Experiences related to Writing: A calligraphy class, a creative writing workshop, or tickets to a literary event.
8th Wedding Anniversary – Bronze: Strength in Unity
Traditional Gift: Bronze, the traditional 8th anniversary gift, symbolizes strength, durability, and unity. Bronze is created by combining copper and tin, representing how you are stronger together than apart. Historically, bronze was also believed to have healing properties.
Gift Ideas:
- Bronze Sculptures or Art: Bronze statues from Ginger Rose, bronze wall art, or decorative bronze bowls.
- Bronze Home Décor Accents: Bronze candlesticks, picture frames, or bookends add a touch of warmth and sophistication.
- Bronze Jewelry or Accessories: Bronze cufflinks, bracelets, or earrings offer a unique and meaningful touch.
Modern Gift: Linen and Lace, the modern 8th anniversary gifts, represent luxury, beauty, and comfort.
Gift Ideas:
- Luxury Linen Bedding: High-quality linen sheets, duvet covers, or pillowcases from Piglet in Bed offer ultimate comfort.
- Lace Clothing or Accessories: Elegant lace lingerie, a delicate lace scarf, or a lace-trimmed blouse.
- Lace Home Décor: Lace tablecloths, curtains, or decorative lace accents for your home.
9th Wedding Anniversary – Willow/Pottery: Flexibility and Shaping a Life Together
Traditional Gift: Willow and Pottery, the traditional 9th anniversary gifts, symbolize flexibility, resilience, and the process of shaping your lives together. Pottery represents the artistry and care involved in building a marriage, while willow signifies strength and adaptability.
Gift Ideas:
- Pottery or Ceramics: Personalized pottery pieces, handcrafted ceramic bowls or mugs, or a clay-modelling class from Virgin Experience Days.
- Willow Baskets or Furniture: A willow picnic basket for romantic outings, willow chairs for the garden, or decorative willow branches for your home.
- Personalized Pottery or Willow Gifts: Engraved pottery vases, personalized willow tree carvings, or custom-made ceramic artwork.
Modern Gift: Leather, the modern 9th anniversary gift, is a repeat from the 3rd anniversary, offering another opportunity to gift leather if you missed it earlier. Poppies are the associated flower, symbolizing remembrance, hope, and beauty.
Gift Ideas:
- Leather Apparel or Accessories: Leather jackets, leather gloves, or stylish leather bags.
- Poppy Bouquet with Leather Vase Wrap: Combine the modern and floral themes with a vibrant poppy bouquet and a leather wrap for the vase.
10th Wedding Anniversary – Tin/Aluminum: A Decade of Resilience and Preservation
Traditional Gift: Tin or Aluminum, the traditional 10th anniversary gifts, symbolize durability, preservation, and longevity. Tin’s resistance to rust represents how your love has endured and protected your marriage over a decade.
Gift Ideas:
- Personalized Tin Gifts: Personalized tins filled with gourmet treats, engraved tin jewelry boxes, or custom tin signs.
- Aluminum Home Décor: Modern aluminum sculptures, sleek aluminum photo frames, or stylish aluminum serving trays.
- Experiences in Tin or Aluminum Related Settings: A visit to a tin or aluminum mine (historical or tourist site), or a cooking class using tin cookware.
- Luxury Treats in Personalized Tins: Biscuits, chocolates, or champagne presented in personalized tins are celebratory and thematic.
Modern Gift: Diamond, the modern 10th anniversary gift, signifies the brilliance, enduring strength, and preciousness of a decade of marriage.
Gift Ideas:
- Diamond Jewelry: Diamond earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or rings are classic and luxurious 10th anniversary gifts. A Monica Vinader ring offers a chic and accessible option.
- Diamond Accented Gifts: Gifts with subtle diamond accents, such as watches with diamond bezels or pens with diamond details.
- Diamond Experiences: A romantic dinner at a high-end restaurant with diamond-themed cocktails, or a weekend getaway to a diamond mining region (if feasible and ethical).
Milestone Anniversaries: 11th to 20th – Celebrating Continued Growth
As you move beyond the first decade, each anniversary becomes an even greater testament to your enduring commitment. Here are traditional and modern anniversary gift ideas for years 11 through 20.
11th Wedding Anniversary – Steel: Unwavering Strength
Traditional Gift: Steel, the traditional 11th anniversary gift, represents strength, resilience, and unwavering commitment. Steel’s durability mirrors the steadfastness of a marriage that has reached 11 years.
Gift Ideas:
- Stainless Steel Kitchenware: High-quality stainless steel cookware, knife sets, or kitchen gadgets for the home chef.
- Steel Tools or Equipment: Durable steel tools for gardening, DIY projects, or hobbies.
- Steel Accessories: Stainless steel cufflinks, watches with steel bands, or a stylish steel water bottle.
- Experiences with Steel: A horse-riding experience from Virgin Experience Days (horseshoe symbolism), tickets to a steel industry tour (if relevant and interesting).
Modern Gift: Fashion Jewelry, the modern 11th anniversary gift, offers a contemporary and stylish option. Turquoise is the associated gemstone.
Gift Ideas:
- Turquoise Jewelry: Turquoise necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or rings, incorporating the traditional gemstone.
- Stylish Fashion Accessories: Trendy handbags, scarves, belts, or other fashion accessories that align with your partner’s style.
- Jewelry Upgrade: Consider upgrading your engagement or wedding rings or restoring a piece of jewelry from your wedding day.
12th Wedding Anniversary – Silk/Linen: Luxury and Serenity
Traditional Gift: Silk and Linen, the traditional 12th anniversary gifts, represent luxury, elegance, and serenity. Silk’s smooth texture and linen’s refined comfort symbolize the luxurious and peaceful nature of a 12-year marriage.
Gift Ideas:
- Silk Pajamas or Robes: Luxurious silk pajamas or robes from Mini Lunn, silk scarves, or silk ties.
- Linen Bedding or Tablecloths: High-quality linen sheets, duvet covers, or elegant linen tablecloths.
- Silk or Linen Home Décor: Silk cushions, linen curtains, or decorative silk throws.
Modern Gift: Pearls, the modern 12th anniversary gift, symbolize beauty, purity, and wisdom. Peonies are the associated flower.
Gift Ideas:
- Pearl Jewelry: Pearl necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or cufflinks.
- Mother of Pearl Gifts: Gifts inlaid with mother of pearl, such as fountain pens, shaving kits, or cufflinks.
- Peony Bouquet with Pearl Accents: Combine the modern and floral themes with a beautiful peony bouquet and pearl-accented vase or decorations.
13th Wedding Anniversary – Lace: Delicate Beauty and Enduring Intricacy
Traditional Gift: Lace, the traditional 13th anniversary gift, represents delicate beauty, intricacy, and the care required to maintain a lasting relationship. Like the intricate patterns of lace, a 13-year marriage is complex and beautiful.
Gift Ideas:
- Lace Lingerie or Clothing: Elegant lace lingerie from brands like La Perla, lace-trimmed blouses, or lace scarves.
- Lace Home Décor: Lace tablecloths, curtains, or decorative lace accents for your home.
- Lace Jewelry: Jewelry with delicate filigree details resembling lace patterns.
Modern Gift: Textiles or Fur, the modern 13th anniversary gifts, symbolize warmth, comfort, and luxury.
Gift Ideas:
- Luxurious Faux Fur Throws or Rugs: Cozy faux fur throws, rugs, or cushions for added warmth and comfort.
- Textile Art or Wall Hangings: Unique textile art pieces, woven wall hangings, or tapestries.
- Cashmere Scarves or Gloves: Soft cashmere scarves, gloves, or sweaters for luxurious warmth.
14th Wedding Anniversary – Ivory: Stability and Gentle Strength (Modern Elephant Theme)
Traditional Gift: Ivory, historically the traditional 14th anniversary gift, is now ethically problematic due to poaching. Modern interpretations focus on Elephant-themed gifts instead, symbolizing wisdom, stability, and good luck.
Gift Ideas (Elephant Theme):
- Elephant Figurines or Sculptures: Marble elephant tea light holders from Marble Tree, elephant-themed artwork, or decorative elephant bookends.
- Donations to Elephant Conservation Charities: Make a donation in your partner’s name to a reputable elephant conservation organization.
- Elephant Experiences (Ethical Tourism): Consider ethical elephant encounters at reputable sanctuaries (ensure no riding or harmful practices are involved).
Modern Gift: Gold Jewelry, the modern 14th anniversary gift, represents value, prosperity, and enduring love.
Gift Ideas:
- Gold Necklaces, Earrings, or Bracelets: Classic gold jewelry pieces for everyday wear or special occasions.
- Gold Watches or Accessories: Stylish gold watches, gold cufflinks, or gold pens.
- Personalized Gold Jewelry: Engraved gold pendants, rings with personalized messages, or custom-designed gold pieces.
15th Wedding Anniversary – Crystal: Clarity and Brilliance
Traditional Gift: Crystal, the traditional 15th anniversary gift, symbolizes clarity, brilliance, and transparency in your relationship. Crystal’s purity reflects the clear understanding and deep connection you share after 15 years.
Gift Ideas:
- Crystal Glassware: Elegant crystal wine glasses, champagne flutes, whiskey tumblers, or decanters.
- Crystal Home Décor: Crystal vases, bowls, chandeliers, or decorative crystal sculptures.
- Crystal Jewelry: Crystal drop earrings from Lily & Roo, crystal necklaces, or crystal bracelets.
Modern Gift: Watches, the modern 15th anniversary gift, symbolize timeless love and the preciousness of time spent together.
Gift Ideas:
- Luxury Watches: High-quality watches from brands like Olivia Burton or explore wedding watches for him.
- Personalized Watches: Engraved watches with your initials, anniversary date, or a special message.
- Watch Accessories: Watch winders, watch storage boxes, or stylish watch straps.
16th Wedding Anniversary – Wax: Flexibility and Molding a Life Together
Traditional Gift: Wax, the traditional 16th anniversary gift, symbolizes flexibility, malleability, and how you have molded your lives together. Wax’s ability to change shape represents the adaptability needed in a long-lasting marriage.
Gift Ideas:
- Luxury Candles: High-end candles from brands like Jo Malone, Diptyque, or NEOM. Choose scents that evoke memories of your wedding day or relationship milestones.
- Candle Making Kits or Workshops: A fun and interactive experience to create your own candles together.
- Wax Seals and Stationery: Personalized wax seals and elegant stationery for a touch of old-world charm.
Modern Gift: Silver Holloware, the modern 16th anniversary gift, refers to silver tableware that is not flat, such as bowls, pitchers, and serving dishes.
Gift Ideas:
- Silver Wine Cooler or Champagne Bucket: A stylish wine cooler from Farrar Tanner, silver serving bowls, or silver pitchers.
- Silver Tea Set or Coffee Set: Elegant silver tea or coffee sets for special occasions.
- Personalized Silver Holloware: Engraved silver bowls, trays, or serving pieces with your initials or anniversary date.
20th Wedding Anniversary – China: Cherished and Enduring Elegance
Traditional Gift: China, the traditional 20th wedding anniversary gift, symbolizes the delicate yet enduring beauty of a 20-year marriage. China, when cared for, can last a lifetime, mirroring the strength and resilience of a long-lasting relationship.
Gift Ideas:
- Fine China Dinnerware Set: A luxurious fine china dinnerware set for elegant dining.
- Decorative China Pieces: China vases, figurines, tea cups, or trinket dishes.
- Personalized China Gifts: Customized china plates or mugs with your names, anniversary date, or a special design.
Modern Gift: Platinum, the modern 20th anniversary gift, represents strength, rarity, and enduring love. Emerald is the traditional gemstone for 20 years.
Gift Ideas:
- Platinum Jewelry: Platinum rings, necklaces, earrings, or bracelets. An eternity ring is a particularly meaningful choice.
- Platinum Watches or Accessories: High-end platinum watches, cufflinks, or pens.
- Platinum Gifts with Emerald Accents: Combine the modern and gemstone themes with platinum jewelry featuring emeralds.
Major Milestones: 25th to 45th – Celebrating Decades of Devotion
Reaching 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 years of marriage is a remarkable achievement. These milestone anniversaries are marked with increasingly precious materials, reflecting the deepening bond and enduring love.
25th Wedding Anniversary – Silver: A Quarter Century of Shine
Traditional and Modern Gift: Silver is both the traditional and modern 25th anniversary gift, symbolizing brilliance, value, and a quarter-century of shared life. Silver’s enduring shine reflects the lasting sparkle of your relationship. Iris is the associated flower, symbolizing courage, faith, hope, wisdom, and admiration.
Gift Ideas:
- Silver Jewelry: Silver necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, or cufflinks.
- Silver Home Décor: Silver picture frames, candlesticks, serving trays, or a personalised trinket dish from Hersey Silversmiths. A sterling silver bookmark from David-Louis Design is a thoughtful and unique gift. A silver plated champagne bucket from Annabel James is perfect for celebrations.
- Silver Experiences: A silver-themed celebration party, a trip to a city known for its silver craftsmanship, or a silver jewelry making class.
- Iris Bouquet with Silver Accents: Combine the floral and material themes with a beautiful iris bouquet and silver ribbon or vase.
30th Wedding Anniversary – Pearl: Purity and Wisdom
Traditional Gift: Pearl, the traditional 30th anniversary gift, symbolizes purity, wisdom, and beauty that develops over time. Pearls, formed slowly within oysters, represent the growth and refinement of a 30-year marriage.
Gift Ideas:
- Pearl Jewelry: Pearl necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or rings. A pearl necklace from By Rae Jewellery offers a striking option.
- Mother of Pearl Gifts: Gifts inlaid with mother of pearl, such as jewelry boxes, picture frames, or decorative items.
- Pearl Accessories: Pearl-embellished clothing, hair accessories, or handbags.
Modern Gift: Diamond, the modern 30th anniversary gift, is a luxurious alternative, signifying enduring strength, brilliance, and preciousness.
Gift Ideas:
- Diamond Jewelry: Diamond earrings, necklaces, bracelets, or rings. An eternity ring or diamond earrings are ideal for marking 30 years.
- Diamond Accented Gifts: Gifts with subtle diamond accents, such as pens with diamond details or watches with diamond bezels.
35th Wedding Anniversary – Coral: Precious and Vibrant
Traditional Gift: Coral, the traditional 35th anniversary gift, symbolizes preciousness, vibrancy, and longevity. Historically, coral was believed to have magical properties. Modern interpretations focus on coral-colored or coral-inspired gifts due to conservation concerns.
Gift Ideas:
- Coral-Colored Home Décor: Coral-printed cushions, wall art, throws, or decorative bowls in coral hues.
- Coral Jewelry (Sustainable Options): Seek out sustainably sourced coral jewelry or consider coral-inspired designs.
- Experiences Related to Coral Reefs (Ethical Tourism): Scuba diving experiences to explore coral reefs (ensure ethical and environmentally friendly operators).
Modern Gift: Jade, the modern 35th anniversary gift, is a vibrant gemstone symbolizing prosperity, good health, and harmony.
Gift Ideas:
- Jade Jewelry: Jade necklaces, earrings, bracelets, or rings.
- Jade Home Décor: Jade sculptures, vases, or decorative objects.
- Jade Wellness Gifts: Jade rollers, massage tools, or spa experiences featuring jade treatments.
40th Wedding Anniversary – Ruby: Passion and Enduring Love
Traditional and Modern Gift: Ruby is both the traditional and modern 40th anniversary gift, symbolizing passion, love, devotion, and protection. The ruby’s deep red color embodies the fiery and enduring love of a 40-year marriage.
Gift Ideas:
- Ruby Jewelry: Ruby necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, or cufflinks.
- Ruby Accented Gifts: Gifts with ruby accents, such as pens with ruby details or watches with ruby bezels.
- Ruby Red Roses with Engraved Vase: A classic and romantic gift: a bouquet of ruby red roses with a vase engraved with your names and anniversary date.
45th Wedding Anniversary – Sapphire: Strength, Resilience, and Endless Love
Traditional and Modern Gift: Sapphire is both the traditional and modern 45th anniversary gift, symbolizing strength, resilience, loyalty, and the deep, endless love within a marriage. Sapphires, once reserved for royalty, represent luxury and enduring commitment.
Gift Ideas:
- Sapphire Jewelry: Sapphire necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, or cufflinks.
- Sapphire Home Décor: Sapphire-blue glassware, decorative sapphire objects, or a sapphire-gold artwork from Aureous.
- Personalized Sapphire Gifts: A personalized anniversary print with sapphire accents, or a sundial from Etsy for the garden.
- Experiences Related to Sapphires: A visit to a sapphire mine (ethical tourism), or a trip to a region known for sapphire production.
Diamond and Beyond: 50th to 90th Anniversary Gifts – Celebrating a Lifetime Together
Reaching 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, and 90 years of marriage is an extraordinary achievement, deserving of truly special celebrations and gifts that reflect the depth and longevity of your love.
50th Wedding Anniversary – Gold: A Golden Milestone
Traditional and Modern Gift: Gold is both the traditional and modern 50th anniversary gift, symbolizing enduring strength, preciousness, prosperity, and a lifetime of shared memories. Gold represents the golden milestone of half a century together.
Gift Ideas:
- Gold Jewelry: Gold necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, or cufflinks.
- Gold Home Décor: Gold picture frames, vases, decorative bowls, or gold-infused skincare products.
- Gold Experiences: A gold-themed anniversary party, a trip to a region known for gold mining history, or a luxurious gold-themed spa day.
- Yellow Roses and Violets Bouquet: Combine the anniversary color and flowers with a vibrant bouquet of yellow roses and violets.
55th Wedding Anniversary – Emerald: True Love and Growth
Traditional and Modern Gift: Emerald is both the traditional and modern 55th anniversary gift, symbolizing true love, devotion, growth, and renewal. Emerald’s lush green color represents the vibrant and ever-growing nature of a long-lasting marriage.
Gift Ideas:
- Emerald Jewelry: Emerald necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, or cufflinks.
- Emerald Home Décor: Vintage emerald-colored glassware, decorative emerald objects, or green photo albums.
- Personalized Emerald Gifts: A personalized emerald blanket from Not On The High Street, or bedding in emerald tones.
- Experiences Related to Emeralds: A trip to a region known for emerald mining (ethical tourism), or a visit to a botanical garden with lush green foliage.
60th Wedding Anniversary – Diamond: Invincible and Everlasting
Traditional and Modern Gift: Diamond is both the traditional and modern 60th anniversary gift, symbolizing invincibility, everlasting love, strength under pressure, and brilliance. Diamonds represent the ultimate symbol of enduring love and commitment after six decades.
Gift Ideas:
- Diamond Jewelry: Diamond necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, or cufflinks.
- Diamond Accented Gifts: Gifts with diamond accents, such as diamond-encrusted pens or watches.
- Diamond Experiences: A diamond-themed anniversary party, a luxurious getaway, or a special experience that reflects the brilliance of diamonds.
- Personalized Diamond Anniversary Gifts: Anniversary prints from Etsy telling your life story, archived newspapers from your wedding date, or a vintage bottle of Bordeaux from Getting Personal.
65th Wedding Anniversary – Blue Sapphire: Deep and Enduring Commitment
Traditional Gift: Blue Sapphire is the traditional 65th anniversary gift, emphasizing the deep and enduring commitment of 65 years of marriage. Blue sapphires symbolize wisdom, loyalty, and steadfast love.
Gift Ideas:
- Blue Sapphire Jewelry: Blue sapphire necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, or cufflinks.
- Blue Sapphire Home Décor: Blue sapphire glassware, decorative objects in sapphire blue tones, or blue-themed artwork.
- Experiences Related to Blue Sapphires: A tour of the Bombay Sapphire distillery for gin lovers, or a trip to a region known for blue sapphire mines (ethical tourism).
70th Wedding Anniversary – Platinum: Rare and Unyielding Strength
Traditional Gift: Platinum is the traditional 70th anniversary gift, symbolizing rarity, strength, resilience, and enduring beauty. Platinum’s unyielding nature represents the unwavering commitment of 70 years of marriage.
Gift Ideas:
- Platinum Jewelry: Platinum necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, or cufflinks.
- Platinum Home Décor: Platinum picture frames, decorative platinum objects, or a personalized platinum anniversary print from Sweet Dimple.
75th Wedding Anniversary – Diamond (Original Diamond Jubilee)
Traditional Gift: Diamond, the traditional 75th anniversary gift, marks the original “Diamond Jubilee.” Celebrating 75 years with diamonds reinforces the ultimate symbol of everlasting love, strength, and brilliance.
Gift Ideas:
- Diamond Jewelry: Diamond necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings, or cufflinks.
- Diamond Legacy Gifts: Consider creating a family heirloom with diamonds, such as a diamond-studded locket or a diamond-encrusted family crest.
80th Wedding Anniversary – Oak: Timeless Strength and Wisdom
Traditional Gift: Oak, the traditional 80th anniversary gift, symbolizes timeless strength, wisdom, longevity, and deep roots. Like a mighty oak tree that stands for centuries, an 80-year marriage is built on the strongest foundations.
Gift Ideas:
- Oak Furniture: Oak benches for the garden, oak rocking chairs, or handcrafted oak tables.
- Oak Home Décor: Engraved oak doorstops, oak chopping boards, or beautifully crafted oak wall art.
- Experiences in Nature with Oak Trees: A visit to an ancient oak forest, a picnic under a grand oak tree, or planting an oak tree together (if feasible).
85th Wedding Anniversary – Wine: Getting Better with Time
Traditional Gift: Wine is the traditional 85th anniversary gift, symbolizing that like a fine wine, your love has only improved and become richer with age.
Gift Ideas:
- Vintage Wine: A bottle of vintage wine from your wedding year or a significant year in your relationship.
- Wine Accessories: Luxury wine glasses, decanters, or a personalized wine cellar.
- Wine Experiences: A wine tasting tour in a renowned wine region, or a private wine pairing dinner.
90th Wedding Anniversary – Granite/Stone: Enduring and Unshakeable
Traditional Gift: Granite or Stone is the traditional 90th anniversary gift, symbolizing enduring strength, unshakeable stability, and everlasting love. Granite and stone represent the solid foundation of a 90-year marriage. Diamonds are also sometimes gifted for this remarkable milestone.
Gift Ideas:
- Granite or Stone Sculptures: Granite or stone garden sculptures, decorative stone objects for the home, or personalized stone plaques.
- Experiences Related to Stone or Granite: A visit to a granite quarry (tourist site), a trip to a region known for its stone architecture, or a relaxing getaway to a stone-built spa.
Frequently Asked Questions about Anniversary Gifts
What are the Traditional Wedding Anniversary Gifts by Year at a Glance?
For a quick overview, here’s a chart of traditional wedding anniversary gifts from the 1st to the 90th year, along with modern alternatives where applicable:
Beyond Gifts: What Activities Can We Enjoy for Our Wedding Anniversary?
While gifts are a lovely tradition, celebrating your anniversary with special activities can create lasting memories. Consider these 25 anniversary date ideas for inspiration, including many free and romantic options!
Which Wedding Anniversary Years are Considered Major Milestones?
The early years, especially up to the 10th anniversary, are all significant milestones as you build your life together. After the 10th year, anniversaries celebrated every 5 and 10 years are typically considered major landmarks.
The shift to more precious materials for traditional wedding anniversary gifts begins at the 25th anniversary with silver. Anniversaries from 30 years onward are exceptionally special, with ruby for 40th, gold for 50th, diamond for 60th, and platinum for 70th, highlighting the increasing preciousness of each milestone.
These milestone materials also inspire “anniversary colors.” Even if you choose not to gift precious gems, incorporating these colors into gifts or celebrations, like silver for a 25th or emerald for a 55th, adds a meaningful thematic touch.
As you celebrate each anniversary, reflect on your journey together and the beautiful changes you’ve experienced since saying “I do.” Consider exploring things that change after getting married to appreciate the evolution of your relationship.
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