@kristinakozyreva, @alexandra.dogar
Anniversaries are awesome because they let couples look back at their time together and feel even closer. One of the coolest parts? Exchanging gifts that mean a lot and show how much they care about each other. In this article, we're diving deep into the world of anniversary gifts, checking out how the themes have changed over time, from traditional to modern options. Plus, we got some ideas for gifts at every step of the journey.
1st Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Paper; Modern Gift — Clocks; Metal — Gold
As you celebrate your first year of marriage, the symbolic gift themes reflect the tender beginnings of your relationship. Paper, the traditional gift, signifies the delicate nature of early marriage — a blank page ready to be filled with memories. Consider gifting a stylish coffee table book or an elegant daily planner. Clocks or watches, the modern gift, remind you of the precious passage of time and the challenges you've faced together. Gold, the color and metal, signifies the value and lasting nature of your bond. As for the flowers, the carnation is the go-to for the first anniversary as it represents the budding love of your journey.
TASCHEN book by Jean-Michel Basquiat; Panthère de Cartier watch
2nd Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Cotton; Modern Gift — China; Gemstone — Garnet
As you reach your second anniversary, the symbolism gains depth. Cotton, the traditional gift, signifies the interwoven threads of your partnership, adapting and growing over time. China or porcelain, the modern gift, represents the strength and fragility of your evolving relationship. Red, the color, symbolizes the passion that continues to burn. Garnet, the gemstone, is a token of love and friendship. As for floral gestures, the Cosmos flower is perfect— it beautifully underscores the equilibrium and rapport you've nurtured together.
Purple Label Twill Shirt; Balcon du Guadalquivir tea cup and saucer
3rd Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Leather; Modern Gift — Crystal or Glass; Gemstone — Pearl
Celebrating your third anniversary marks the security and clarity that has flourished within your union. The traditional gift of leather symbolizes protection and strength, acting as a shield for the ever-deepening love you share; consider gifting a personalized cardholder or an elegant purse to cherish this sentiment. In contrast, crystal or glass, the contemporary counterpart, mirrors the luminosity and allure each of you injects into the relationship. Why not mark this with a vase or a set of finely crafted glasses? Echoing the tranquility and equilibrium of your bond, jade, the representative color, seamlessly blends into this mosaic of meanings. Further enriched by the gemstone for this year, the pearl, your love story is likened to its formation—layers of splendor evolving over time. And not to forget the radiant sunflowers, which stand tall as symbols of the robust foundation you've built and the incandescent love that continues to shine brightly.
Saint-Sulpice Card Wallet; The wavy design of the crystal Eye
4th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Fruit or Flowers; Modern Gift — Appliances; Gemstone — Blue Topaz
Celebrating your third anniversary marks the security and clarity that has flourished within your union. The traditional gift of leather symbolizes protection and strength, acting as a shield for the ever-deepening love you share; consider gifting a personalized cardholder or an elegant purse to cherish this sentiment. In contrast, crystal or glass, the contemporary counterpart, mirrors the luminosity and allure each of you injects into the relationship. Why not mark this with a vase or a set of finely crafted glasses? Echoing the tranquility and equilibrium of your bond, jade, the representative color, seamlessly blends into this mosaic of meanings. Further enriched by the gemstone for this year, the pearl, your love story is likened to its formation—layers of splendor evolving over time. And not to forget the radiant sunflowers, which stand tall as symbols of the robust foundation you've built and the incandescent love that continues to shine brightly.
5th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Wood; Modern Gift — Silverware; Gemstone — Sapphire
At five years, your bond has deepened like the roots of a tree. The traditional gift of wood mirrors this growth, symbolizing the strength and solidity of your ever-evolving relationship; think of a ooden chess set or a handcrafted photo frame. Modern couples might gravitate towards silverware, reminiscent of the shared meals and treasured moments spent together — perhaps a sleek silver cutlery set or a keepsake serving tray. Drenching this milestone in colors like blue, pink, or turquoise encapsulates the trust and devotion you've nurtured; envision these hues in elegant throw pillows or romantic date-night attire. A sapphire pendant or ring captures the essence of your enduring love, while a bouquet of daisies — representing purity and loyalty — serves as a delicate reminder of the innocence and steadfastness of your bond.
Samarcande mini chess set; Mood coffee
6th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Iron; Modern Gift — Wood Objects; Gemstone — Amethyst
Six years into marriage, your bond is unbreakable, like iron. Iron, the traditional gift, symbolizes strength and durability. Wood objects, the modern gift, highlight your ever-growing journey. As for the symbolic colors, the serene shades of purple, white, and turquoise not only evoke creativity but also reflect the tranquility you've cultivated together. The amethyst, which stands as this anniversary’s gemstone, embodies both love and protection; an amethyst pendant or ring could be an ideal gift. Lastly, the grace of calla lilies, representing the purity and refinement of your relationship, would be perfect in a bouquet or as a centerpiece, reminding you both of the elegance of your journey together.
Cast Iron Oval Casserole; Balfern Petrified Wood Coasters, Set of Four
7th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Copper or Wool; Modern Gift — Desk Sets; Gemstone — Onyx
The seventh wedding anniversary is a heartwarming celebration of the warmth and practicality that has deepened over the years. Traditional gifts of copper or wool beautifully represent the comfort and coziness that spouses share with one another. Consider gifting a handcrafted copper kettle or a cozy woolen blanket for those intimate nights in. In today's modern world, desk sets or accessories serve as the contemporary gift, underscoring the shared workspaces and the love that permeates them. The chosen hues of yellow or off-white encapsulate the joy and clarity that have grown over the years, reminiscent of a dappled sunlit morning. Onyx, the chosen gemstone, acts as a shield, safeguarding your bond from any challenges that arise; a delicate onyx pendant or ring could be an apt choice. Finally, the fragrance of freesias, representing thoughtfulness and enduring friendship, can be gifted as a fresh bouquet or in a beautifully crafted freesia-scented candle.
Acne Studios Check Wood Scarf; Brennan Leather Pencil Cup
8th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Bronze or Pottery; Modern Gift — Linen or Lace; Gemstone — Tourmaline
Your eighth year is marked by resilience and beauty. Bronze or pottery, the traditional gifts, represent the artistic and functional aspects of your marriage. Meanwhile, modern gifts of linen or lace highlight the gentle intricacies and woven narratives of your relationship. Consider gifting a luxurious linen bedding set or an exquisite lace slip dress. Adopting the hue of strength and stability, the color bronze paints a picture of the foundation you've built. Complementing this is tourmaline, the gemstone of the hour, echoing sentiments of compassion and enduring love; perhaps a tourmaline pendant or earrings would make the perfect keepsake. Lastly, the clematis flower, representing both intellect and growth, blooms as a testament to the evolving journey you share. A bouquet or a potted clematis plant would serve as a delightful reminder of the love that continues to grow with each passing year.
The Lovers' Pact 24ct yellow gold-plated bronze pendant necklace; Plunge Underwired Bra
9th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Willow or Pottery; Modern Gift — Leather; Gemstone — Lapis Lazuli
Nine years in, your relationship is shaped by flexibility and endurance. Willow or pottery, the traditional gifts, symbolize the strong and malleable nature of your bond. For those drawn to contemporary gifts, leather emphasizes the protective nature and unwavering commitment of your union; a leather-bound journal or stylish belt can be ideal. Terracotta, not just a hue but an emblem of your journey, signifies the steady growth and grounding you've nurtured; perhaps a terracotta planter for a cherished plant. The radiant lapis lazuli, as the chosen gemstone, stands as a testament to the honesty and safeguarding aura of your love; a lapis jewelry piece or cufflinks could be fitting. Finally, poppies, with their delicate petals, capture the essence of remembrance and the boundless imagination that has fueled your adventures as a couple.
YOU GIVE ME BUTTERFLIES; Reversible Anagram belt in soft grained calfskin and smooth calfskin
10th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Aluminum or Tin; Modern Gift — Diamond Jewelry; Gemstone — Diamond
Consider gifts like aluminum or tin, which are traditional choices that reflect the strength and durability of your bond. An example might be a crafted tin picture frame or an Apple Watch in aluminum case. For those inclined towards more contemporary gifts, diamond jewelry beautifully celebrates the brilliance and sparkle of your relationship; think of a delicate diamond pendant or a timeless ring. The colors for this milestone, silver and blue, symbolize the depth and unwavering strength of your journey together, as seen in elegant silver tableware or blue-themed decorative items. Opt for diamonds, the chosen gemstones for this anniversary, to epitomize eternal love and commitment — a perfect fit for any piece of jewelry. Finally, gifting daffodils, the symbolic flowers for the 10th anniversary, marks the bright, joyful path you've woven together.
Apple Watch Series 8; Tiffany Victoria Earrings
11th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Steel; Modern Gift — Fashion Jewelry; Gemstone — Turquoise
Eleven years in, your love is as strong as steel. Steel, the traditional gift, signifies your unyielding partnership. Fashion jewelry, the modern gift, adds a touch of elegance to your shared journey. Turquoise, both a color and gemstone for this milestone, is renowned for its protective and healing energy. A turquoise pendant or set of earrings might be a beautiful addition. Finally, the Morning glory, symbolizing the deep affection and passion that's blossomed over the years, is the perfect flower to complete the celebration. A bouquet of these vibrant flowers can rekindle the romance and beauty of your early days.
Montblanc PIX Cufflinks; Logo cuff
12th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Silk or Linen; Modern Gift — Pearl; Gemstone — Jade
Twelve years of marriage represent refinement and beauty. Traditionally, silk or linen gifts exemplify the comfort and elegance woven into your relationship over the years—imagine a silk scarf or a robe. In modern times, pearls symbolize the layers of wisdom and love you've cultivated; consider gifting a timeless pearl necklace or cufflinks. The chosen color for this anniversary, oyster white, evokes feelings of purity and harmony—perhaps reflected in a delicate dinnerware set or home decor. The enchanting jade, as the anniversary's gemstone, is believed to attract love and prosperity, making a jade pendant or bracelet an apt choice. Lastly, gift a bouquet of peonies, which poignantly celebrates your shared ability to savor life's finer moments.
30 MONTAIGNE CHOKER; Silk Robe
13th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Lace; Modern Gift — Textiles or (Faux) Furs; Gemstone — Citrine
Thirteen years in, your love is as intricate as lace. Lace, the traditional gift, symbolizes the delicate yet strong threads of your relationship. In a contemporary twist, textiles or (faux) furs serve as the modern gifts, mirroring the comfort and enveloping warmth you've cultivated together. Opt for a soft scarf or a blanket as a tangible symbol of this sentiment. The chosen hue for this anniversary is white, heralding purity and the promise of fresh starts. Adorning your celebration could be citrine, a gemstone that radiates happiness and ushers in positive energy—perhaps in the form of a delicate necklace or ring. Lastly, the gift of chrysanthemums, resplendent in their beauty, encapsulates the boundless joy and enduring friendship that your journey has been built upon.
MSGM Lace top; Avalon throw blanket
14th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Ivory; Modern Gift — Gold Jewelry; Gemstone — Opal
Fourteen years in, your love is as precious as ivory. Traditionally, ivory represents both luck and protection, yet in today's environmentally conscious world, we recommend eco-friendly alternatives. Gold jewelry, the contemporary gift for this milestone, beautifully reflects the lasting value and richness of your relationship. Embrace the symbolic purity and spirituality of the color ivory in your celebrations, perhaps through table settings or attire. Incorporate opals, the gemstone for this anniversary, which radiate love and passion, into a stunning piece of jewelry or accessory. And finally, adorn your celebration with dahlias, vibrant flowers that exude excitement and uniqueness, mirroring the many wonderful years you’ve shared and the many more to come.
SIDE PLATE; Juste un Clou bracelet
15th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Crystal; Modern Gift — Watches; Gemstone — Ruby
Celebrating fifteen years of marriage is a testament to the clarity and fervor of enduring love. Evoking this brilliance is the traditional gift of crystal—imagine a sparkling crystal decanter or an elegant vase. On the contemporary side, watches serve as a poignant reminder of the cherished moments you've woven together, like an engraved timepiece capturing your shared history. The color red paints the canvas of this anniversary, symbolizing the undying passion that continues to ignite your bond, much like a romantic evening dressed in crimson. The gemstone for this milestone is the ruby, mirroring the eternal flame of your connection—consider a delicate ruby pendant or a pair of stunning earrings. And what could be more symbolic of romance than roses? Gift a bouquet of lush, red roses to evoke feelings of deep affection and reminiscence.
'Shimmer' tealight, black Zaha Hadid Design; Gucci Grip wristwatch
16th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Wax; Modern Gift — Silver Holloware; Gemstone — Peridot
Sixteen years in, your bond is unextinguishable, like a lit candle. With this sentiment, wax, the traditional gift, is an emblem of the everlasting light of your love. Consider gifting a bespoke, scented candle that evokes shared memories. Moving to contemporary choices, silver holloware, often used at the dinner table, stands as a testament to unity and togetherness. Consider presenting an elegant silver serving bowl or a graceful pitcher. The chosen anniversary colors, silver or emerald green, echo the themes of harmony and growth. Perhaps a silver pendant or an emerald green silk scarf could be your gift of choice. The gemstone for this milestone is peridot, symbolizing unwavering love and devotion — a beautifully set peridot ring might just be the perfect touch. Finally, the delicate statices, as anniversary flowers, pay tribute to the myriad memories the two of you have woven over time.
MUGUET Classic Candle; KOPPEL Pitcher
17th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Furniture; Modern Gift — Furniture; Gemstone — Carnelian
Seventeen years mark comfort and stability in your journey. Furniture, both a traditional and modern gift, epitomizes the cozy home you've lovingly built side by side. Imagine surprising your spouse with a handcrafted wooden bench for your garden or a chic modern coffee table for your living room. The color yellow, resonating with joy and optimism, can be beautifully represented in a hand-painted vase or a luxurious throw blanket. Carnelian, the gemstone for this milestone, not only adds a touch of elegance with its deep red hue but also brings warmth and protection to your bond; consider a dainty carnelian necklace or a pair of cufflinks. Lastly, red carnations, timeless symbols of love, admiration, and deep affection, make for a perfect bouquet to celebrate the flame that continues to burn brightly in your union.
Black Marquina Marble; Sedie chair
18th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Porcelain; Modern Gift — Porcelain; Gemstone — Cat's Eye
Eighteen years represent beauty and artistry in your union. Celebrate this milestone with porcelain, both the traditional and modern gift, which mirrors the elegance and delicate balance of your relationship. Consider gifting a porcelain vase or a bespoke dinner set. To encapsulate the serenity you've nurtured, opt for something blue, which embodies calmness and tranquility—perhaps a silky blue scarf or a vintage blue-tinted locket. Enhance the protection and enduring love in your bond with the Cat's eye gemstone, be it in the form of a delicate pendant or an elegant ring. While there's no specific flower tied to the 18th anniversary, gifting a handpicked bouquet can beautifully symbolize the flourishing beauty you've cultivated side by side.
Porcelain figure in the form of a heart Love In Bloom Kintsugi; The Blue Guest Figurine
19th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Bronze; Modern Gift — Bronze; Gemstone — Aquamarine
Nineteen years celebrate strength and resilience in your relationship. Celebrate with gifts of bronze, both the traditional and modern choice, which underscore the enduring nature of your bond. Aquamarine, the anniversary's gemstone, mirrors the harmony and calmness you've nurtured over the years. Consider a delicate aquamarine necklace or a pair of timeless aquamarine earrings. Complement these tokens of affection with chrysanthemums, which bloom in joy, longevity, and good fortune, perhaps in a well-arranged bouquet or as a centerpiece for a romantic dinner.
Cresswell Black Mango & Antique Bronze Cheese Set; Bronze The ancient one
20th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — China; Modern Gift — Platinum; Gemstone — Emerald
Traditionally, china or porcelain, exemplified by a delicate tea set or a decorative vase, embodies the fragile beauty of your shared journey. In modern times, platinum, seen in items like elegant jewelry or cufflinks, stands as a symbol of robust strength and unwavering endurance. The lustrous emerald, which might be beautifully captured in a pendant or ring, resonates with the themes of growth, renewal, and boundless love. Lastly, asters, whether presented as a lavish bouquet or a potted plant, whisper tales of timeless romance and elegance.
Seletti Cecilia tureen; Chopsticks - Platinum (Set of 2 Pairs)
25th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Sterling Silver; Modern Gift — Sterling Silver; Metal — Silver
A quarter-century of love is celebrated with precious silver. As both the traditional and modern gifts for this anniversary, sterling silver embodies the purity and resilience of your bond. Think of gifting a silver necklace, bracelet, or a photo frame to hold cherished memories. In addition, silver as a color and metal stands for purity and strength, lending even more meaning to the choice. To add a touch of nature, consider integrating irises into your celebration.
Tiffany Interlocking Circles Chain Bracelet; David Yurman silver bracelet
30th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Pearl; Modern Gift — Diamond; Gemstone — Pearl
Three decades mark a relationship of depth and beauty. Pearls, both the traditional and modern gift for this milestone, elegantly symbolize the hidden treasures of your enduring love; imagine gifting a delicate pearl necklace or a pair of timeless pearl cufflinks. The diamond, representing this anniversary's gemstone, mirrors the unyielding strength and luminous brilliance of your bond – consider a diamond pendant or a classic watch with diamond accents. Embracing green as the anniversary's representative color signifies a continued journey of growth and renewal; think of gifting a romantic getaway to a lush, green destination or a rejuvenating spa day amidst verdant settings. Finally, lilies, as the chosen flowers for this special anniversary, poetically represent the transition into an exciting new phase; perhaps a bouquet of fresh white lilies or even a beautiful lily-inspired artwork.
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra necklace; Miansai Geo Signet Diamond
35th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Coral; Modern Gift — Jade; Gemstone — Emerald
Thirty-five years of marriage embody the resilience and strength of your love. The traditional gift for this milestone is coral, a symbol of protection and healing, and it's beautifully mirrored in the passionate and vibrant hue of coral itself. Imagine gifting a delicate coral necklace or a piece of art with coral accents to celebrate this tradition. Meanwhile, the modern gift, jade, is evocative of luck, prosperity, and enduring love—picture a jade bracelet or pendant as the perfect token. Furthermore, the gemstone associated with this anniversary, emerald, captures the essence of harmony and commitment; think of an elegant emerald ring or pair of earrings. And finally, the enchanting coral roses, representing deep desire and affection, make a breathtaking bouquet for your beloved.
Coral Centerpiece; Tibaldi Fountain Pen
40th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Ruby; Modern Gift — Ruby; Gemstone — Ruby
The ruby, both a traditional and modern gift for this milestone, beautifully symbolizes the fiery intensity and steadfastness of your bond. Reflecting this fervor, the color red stands as an emblem of deep love and desire. Complementing this theme, gladioli — the flowers associated with the 40th anniversary — signify not only strength of character but also a continued infatuation.
CARTIER DESTINÉE NECKLACE; PASHA DE CARTIER WATCH
45th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Sapphire; Modern Gift — Sapphire; Gemstone — Sapphire
The traditional and modern gift for this milestone, the sapphire, perfectly captures the depth and loyalty of such enduring love. Whether you choose to celebrate with a sapphire necklace or a set of elegant cufflinks, this gem is a testament to years of shared memories. Complementing this sentiment, the associated colors of blue and red beautifully evoke feelings of trust and fervent passion. Consider gifting a blue satin dress or a red silk robe to mark this occasion. And not to be forgotten, the blue irises, which serve as the signature flowers for this anniversary, gracefully embody the continued faith and hope in the journey ahead.
The Elsa Peretti Color by the Yard; DOUBLE C DE CARTIER SILVER LOGO CUFFLINKS
50th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Gold; Modern Gift — Gold; Metal — Gold
This radiant metal, both a traditional and contemporary gift choice, encapsulates the rarity and preciousness of a bond that has stood the test of time. Just as gold can be molded into exquisite shapes, the journey of fifty years has shaped a relationship that is as unique as it is beautiful. When considering gifts as brilliant as the occasion, think of exquisite gold jewelry that echoes the enduring sparkle in your partner's eyes. For a more experiential touch, how about a romantic getaway to a destination known for its golden sunsets, like Santorini?
BVLGARI SERPENTI VIPER RING; C DE CARTIER MOTIF MONEY CLIP
55th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Emerald; Modern Gift — Emerald; Gemstone — Alexandrite
Fifty-five years mark a love that continues to flourish. Emerald, standing as both the traditional and modern gift for this milestone, resonates with renewal and growth—imagine gifting stunning emerald earrings or a beautiful ring to symbolize this flourishing journey. Not to be overshadowed, Alexandrite, another gemstone linked to this anniversary, speaks to positive transformation and good fortune; consider a delicate Alexandrite bracelet or a pair of earrings to celebrate the unwavering bond. Complementing this, the "Green Goddess" calla lilies, emblematic of purity and devotion, make for a touching and elegant floral gesture, encapsulating more than five decades of unwavering love and commitment.
Suzanne Kalan yellow gold necklace with emerald; House of Meraki Aria yellow gold earrings with emerald
60th Anniversary Gift Themes
Traditional Gift — Diamond; Modern Gift — Diamond; Gemstone — Diamond
Sixty years of wedded bliss glitters with the enduring brilliance of diamonds. Serving as both the traditional and modern gift for this milestone, diamonds epitomize eternal love and unwavering strength. Think of gifting a timeless diamond necklace or a classic ring that speaks of your enduring bond. With a hue as pristine as diamond white, it stands as a testament to the purity and unity cultivated over these cherished years; perhaps marking the occasion with a delicate, diamond-white silk shawl or elegant tableware. Meanwhile, orchids, with their majestic allure, represent beauty, strength, and luxury.
Pavé Butterfly Diamond Pendant; Maison Messika Move Titanium Bangle Bracelet
Anniversaries provide an opportunity to cherish the journey traveled, the obstacles overcome, and the dreams shared. The tradition of exchanging thoughtful gifts enhances the celebration, allowing couples to express their gratitude and affection in tangible ways. Whether through traditional or modern themes, each year's gift reflects the nuances of the relationship and the commitment that continues to flourish. So, as you embark on this beautiful journey of love, let the symbolism of anniversary gifts serve as a reminder of the profound connection you share, and the chapters of happiness yet to be written.
