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Are you looking for a gift to celebrate your upcoming anniversary? Traditional, modern, flower, and gemstone anniversary gift ideas are available, providing inspiration as you shop for a gift for your partner. If you’re wondering “What are the anniversary gifts for each year?,” this guide is here to help. Discover both creative and classic ways to celebrate your anniversary with a thoughtful gift, and learn more about the history behind anniversary gifts.
Contents
Anniversary Gifts By Year
Tap into some creative inspiration for your next anniversary celebration. Here, we offer a comprehensive list of anniversary gifts by year, categorized by the four primary lists: traditional, modern, flower, and gemstone. We’ll also offer some specific gift suggestions for each year, making your gift shopping a breeze. So, read on to discover all the details about finding the perfect anniversary gift for your partner.
1st Anniversary
Celebrate the success of your first year of marriage with a thoughtful gift inspired by these ideas.
Traditional
Paper is the traditional gift for a 1st anniversary. Gift options abound in this category. A thoughtfully written letter or card can accompany an anniversary gift from another list. Frame a memory from your wedding such as your handwritten vows, your wedding invitation or a favorite photo from your honeymoon. If you’re thinking ahead, consider keeping a journal during your first year of marriage and jotting down what you’re grateful for about your spouse every day. Then, you can give them the journal on your 1st anniversary.
Modern
A clock is the modern gift for a 1st anniversary. There’s a sweet inspiration behind this modern gift idea, indicating that you and your partner have all the time in the world as a couple. Think creatively when shopping for a clock. While you can certainly invest in a new wall clock, you might also consider other ways that your partner can tell time. Consider, for instance, a fitness watch or smart watch that tells time and offers so many more features. An updated alarm clock or clock for their desk at work are other ideas. Some clocks can even be personalized, featuring engraving commemorating a special phrase between the two of you or listing your anniversary date.
Flower
The 1st anniversary flower is the carnation. These classic flowers are available in a wide variety of colors, including red, pink, white, yellow and scarlet. They’re associated with innocence, making them an appropriate gift for a young, newly married couple just beginning to embark on their journey together.
Gemstone
Gold is the 1st anniversary gemstone. This classic gemstone is meant to represent hope for the couple’s future together. Citrine is the most popular gold gemstone, but you also might consider aventurine, tourmaline, or garnet, all of which are available in shades of yellow. If you’re shopping for a more extravagant gift for your 1st anniversary, consider a piece of jewelry featuring a yellow diamond, which is a piece that your partner will cherish for years to come.
2nd Anniversary
The 2nd anniversary celebrates another year of marriage for the young couple, still considered newlyweds by many—especially those couples who have been married for decades. Like the 1st anniversary, many wedding gift ideas exist for the 2nd anniversary. Discover some creative ideas inspired by traditional and modern lists and more.
Traditional
The traditional gift for a 2nd anniversary is cotton. This material inspires a variety of gift ideas. Cotton is known for its softness and luxury, so consider something that delivers comfort. You can find a cozy cotton robe or a soft cotton blanket. Consider personalized gifts, such as a customized pillow cover featuring your wedding date and details. Matching t-shirts or pajamas can be a fun gift for couples who like to coordinate, too.
Modern
China is the modern anniversary gift for a 2nd anniversary. Perhaps you received china as a wedding gift but are missing a few place settings. The 2nd anniversary can be an ideal time to complete the set. Or, you can consider picking up coordinating pieces that are good for entertaining. Discover serveware, such as serving dishes and bowls, that can have you set for hosting your family for a special occasion. Use your current china as inspiration as you shop, and don’t hesitate to work with your partner on choosing pieces that you truly love. After all, you may use them for years to come.
Flower
Cosmos flowers are traditionally gifted on the 2nd anniversary. A part of the sunflower family, this flower is available in several shades, including golden yellow, white, pink, magenta and more. These lively flowers were chosen for this anniversary because they represent playful love, common in new marriages.
Gemstone
The 2nd anniversary gemstone is garnet. This gemstone comes in many colors, although red is most often associated with it. This hardy gemstone works well in a variety of configurations, making it a versatile gem to add to many jewelry styles.
3rd Anniversary
Still new in their marriage, couples celebrating their 3rd anniversary have plenty to be grateful for. Share gifts inspired by modern and traditional anniversary gift lists as you celebrate your 3rd anniversary.
Traditional
The traditional gift to celebrate a 3rd anniversary is leather. This supple material is used on a variety of luxury gift ideas, so you’ll have many choices when you’re shopping for a 3rd anniversary. Consider luggage tags, a portfolio or passport holder made with leather and personalized with a monogram. A leather handbag or messenger bag is a versatile piece that can be used daily. Leather jewelry, such as watches, are another thoughtful way to celebrate the 3rd anniversary.
Modern
Crystal or glass gifts are the modern suggestion for a 3rd anniversary gift. These materials give you plenty of gift options. You might opt for a classic gift like crystal pieces you can display in the home, such as candlesticks, vases, or decorative bowls. Glass options abound as well, whether you upgrade your glassware collection with a new set or a serving item like a decanter or pitcher.
Flower
The 3rd anniversary flower is the sunflower, chosen because of its strength, bold color and passion—descriptions that might also apply to a marriage that’s growing stronger by the year. The sunflower’s bold design is likely one you’re quite familiar with, featuring a strong stalk and rich gold petals. A single sunflower makes a statement on its own, or you can make a bouquet of these beautiful flowers to celebrate your 3rd anniversary.
Gemstone
Pearls are the 3rd anniversary gemstone. The classic pearl is timeless and will become a jewelry piece that your partner can enjoy for decades to come. Two types of pearls are available: natural and cultured. If you want to splurge, opt for natural pearls; otherwise, cultured pearls will be your more budget-friendly option for a 3rd anniversary gift your partner will love.
4th Anniversary
Celebrate the 4th anniversary with gifts inspired by these traditional and modern ideas.
Traditional
Fruit or flowers are the traditional gifts for a 4th anniversary. These gifts were chosen for the 4th anniversary because you’ve now reached the stage of your marriage where your relationship has blossomed, just like fruit and flowers do. A traditional fruit or flower bouquet is a classic choice. However, you can think creatively too, perhaps giving a painting of your wedding flowers or fruit-inspired apparel or jewelry. Or, plant flowers outside your home that are meaningful to you as a couple.
Modern
Appliances are the modern gift for a 4th anniversary. If your kitchen is in need of a new appliance, then your 4th anniversary might be the perfect time to select one as a couple. However, you can think beyond those traditional kitchen appliances and consider a smaller appliance that your partner will love. For example, a coffee lover will appreciate a high-end coffee maker or espresso machine. Consider a versatile appliance for a cook such as an air fryer, immersion blender or food processor.
Flower
Celebrate a 4th anniversary with the traditional anniversary flower: the geranium. This popular bloom evokes a sense of comfort, as you’re setting into your new life as a married couple. Geraniums typically come in shades of white, pink, and red, though you might be able to find more unique colors as well, such as orange and purple.
Gemstone
Blue topaz is the gemstone of choice for the 4th anniversary. This gemstone is associated with love and affection, making it a logical choice for an anniversary gift. Its radiant blue hue makes it a popular choice for costume jewelry, so your options are abundant as you shop for a gemstone-inspired anniversary gift.
5th Anniversary
You’re reached the half-decade point of your marriage— a milestone worth celebrating. Since the 5th anniversary is considered a significant one, you might opt for a more extravagant gift to celebrate 5 years of marriage. Consider these ideas inspired by all four anniversary gift lists.
Traditional
Wood is the traditional gift for a 5th anniversary, which means you have many choices when it comes to anniversary gift giving. Plant a tree in your yard to commemorate your 5th anniversary and watch it grow. Invest in new bedroom furniture to give your home an update. Have a wooden sign made that features your monogram and wedding date. You can find both modest and extravagant gifts crafted of wood.
Modern
The modern gift for a 5th anniversary is silverware. If you’re a couple who loves to entertain, a new set of flatware can be saved for special occasions to use with family and friends. Or, perhaps your everyday flatware needs an update. If it doesn’t, consider silver serving utensils, which are handy when you’re hosting a crowd.
Flower
The 5th anniversary flower is the daisy. This yellow-and-white flower features a solid center with petals pointing outward. The meaning here, as it relates to your marriage, reveals that the flower’s center represents your strong bond as a couple and the petals represent the ways your relationship will grow.
Gemstone
The sapphire is the gemstone that honors a 5th anniversary. While the sapphire comes in several colors, the bold blue shade is what it’s best known for. The sapphire is a strong, durable gemstone that represents the strength of your marriage. It’s a striking gem that adds dazzle to any piece of jewelry.
6th Anniversary
As you work toward a decade of marriage, every year is worth celebrating. Consider these gift ideas for a 6th anniversary
Traditional
The 6th anniversary is associated with two gifts, depending on the list you use: either candy or iron. Candy gifts are easy to create, whether you make a gift basket of your partner’s favorite treats or opt for a box of gourmet chocolates. Iron gift ideas include outdoor furniture, a new fence for your backyard or a new light fixture for the home.
Modern
Wood is the traditional choice for a 5th anniversary gift and the modern choice for the 6th anniversary. As noted, your wood gift options are endless and should be guided by your partner’s interests. A wooden frame featuring a favorite picture, a birdhouse for your backyard, or a wooden basket filled with your partner’s favorite treats (representing both the traditional and modern gift ideas) work well for a 6th anniversary gift.
Flower
The 6th anniversary flower is the calla lily. This flower is known for its elegance, featuring a long stem and simple bloom. This lovely flower comes in a variety of colors, including white, pink, light purple, yellow, orange and red. Consider a potted calla lily that you can cultivate together.
Gemstone
The amethyst is the gemstone of choice for a 6th anniversary gift. Like other gems, amethyst comes in several colors, although a bold purple is the most popular selection. In fact, you can find this gemstone in a variety of shades of purple, making it a good gift choice if your partner loves the color.
7th Anniversary
The 7th anniversary celebrates another successful year of marriage and can be commemorated with traditional and modern gifts.
Traditional
Two traditional gifts are associated with the 7th anniversary: wool and copper. As a result, you have plenty of potential gift ideas. Wool gifts may include handwoven items like a blanket, sweater, or rug. Copper gifts can include unique drinkware or new cookware.
Modern
The modern gift for the 7th anniversary is desk sets. So, whether you work from home or go to the office, you and your partner can celebrate your anniversary with an updated workspace. Consider a new portfolio, organizational tools for the desk or even a new electronic to add to your collection.
Flower
Freesia is a lovely, fragrant flower that celebrates the 7th anniversary. This unique flower is associated with friendship, which makes it well suited for a couple who shares a bond of friendship and beyond. Freesia flowers come in several colors, including white, pink, orange, lavender, purple and yellow.
Gemstone
Onyx is the traditional gemstone to celebrate a 7th anniversary. This black gem is associated with masculinity, which makes it an ideal stone to use for jewelry for men. However, don’t hesitate to only purchase onyx gifts for men. A pair of onyx earrings, for example, can be a statement-making piece for her.
8th Anniversary
Explore these traditional, modern, flower, and gemstone gifts to celebrate your 8th anniversary.
Traditional
Bronze and pottery are the traditional gifts for an 8th anniversary. Bronze gifts can include decorative items or furnishings featuring this metal, which is a blend of copper and tin. If you’re so inclined, you can create a unique piece of pottery as an 8th anniversary gift. Or, purchase a piece of pottery, such as a flowerpot, and fill it with the 8th anniversary flower, detailed below.
Modern
Linen and lace are the modern gifts for an 8th anniversary. High-thread-count bed linens can add a layer of luxury and promote restful sleep. Plush bath towels are another idea for linens. Lace gifts come in many forms and may include items for the home, such as new table linens, as well as a new piece of lingerie.
Flower
The 8th anniversary flower is the clematis, a flower that’s associated with intelligence and reflects on how you’ve grown wiser together as a couple. This bold bloom comes in several colors, including purple, blue, pink, red, and more.
Gemstone
Tourmaline is the 8th anniversary gemstone. This durable gemstone can be cut into many shapes and sizes, allowing you to find a variety of jewelry pieces featuring it. Find tourmaline gems in a variety of colors, such as watermelon, pink, and black.
9th Anniversary
As you approach your first decade of marriage, consider celebrating with gifts inspired by anniversary gift lists.
Traditional
The 9th anniversary is traditionally associated with two gifts: willow or pottery. Willow, or wicker, can be featured in many gifts, including outdoor furniture, baskets and decorative accents. Likewise, hand-crafted pottery can add a decorative touch to the home, so consider vases, bowls, and planters.
Modern
Leather is the modern gift suggestion for the 9th anniversary. This supple material can be found on so many products, from attire to furniture, making it easy to find a gift that’s well suited to your partner.
Flower
The 9th anniversary flower is the poppy. This bright and cheerful bloom typically showcases vibrant shades of red and orange. Plant a poppy in your yard or give a potted poppy to celebrate your 9th year of marriage.
Gemstone
The lapis lazuli is the 9th anniversary gemstone. This gem is a metamorphic rock that showcases a deep blue color that’s sure to stand out on any piece of jewelry. Its intense color makes it a good choice for a variety of pieces.
10th Anniversary
You’ve reached a decade of marriage, an accomplishment well worth celebrating. Honor your 10 years spent together with a gift inspired from these ideas.
Traditional
Tin or aluminum is the traditional 10th anniversary gift. If you’re looking to go extravagant for your decade anniversary, consider letting the tin or aluminum serve as gift wrap, instead of the gift itself. For example, you can place a piece of jewelry featuring the 10th anniversary gemstone or a gift card for a couples’ spa day inside an aluminum box or small tin.
Modern
The modern 10th anniversary gift is diamond jewelry, making it a more extravagant choice. A pair of diamond studs never go out of style—or diamond cufflinks for him. Or, upgrade your wedding bands with a complementary 10th anniversary band.
Flower
Daffodils are the 10th anniversary flower. Consider giving 10 yellow and orange flowers to create a bouquet that represents every year of your marriage.
Gemstone
In line with the modern 10th anniversary gift, the diamond is the gemstone for this milestone occasion. Dazzling diamond jewelry is sure to make your partner smile.
11th Anniversary
As you enter the second decade of your marriage, celebrate your union with these gift ideas.
Traditional
The traditional gift for an 11th anniversary is steel, an incredibly tough metal that’s chosen to represent the strength of your bond. Give a set of stainless steel glasses, along with some beverages to fill them with. Or, get your partner a new bike or grill, which both encourage outdoor enjoyment.
Modern
Fashion jewelry is the modern 11th wedding anniversary gift. Consider picking up a fun piece of jewelry featuring the gemstone for your year of marriage. Get creative when you choose fashion jewelry, which can be a nice alternative to more classic pieces your partner may already have.
Flower
The morning glory is the 11th anniversary flower. It features slender stems and heart-shaped leaves, perfect for an occasion celebrating love. Find morning glory in several colors, including purple and blue.
Gemstone
Turquoise is the 11th anniversary gemstone. This bold stone serves as the centerpiece of many statement-making pieces of fashion jewelry, making it well suited for this occasion.
12th Anniversary
Celebrate anniversary number 12 with a thoughtful gift inspired by traditional and modern gift lists.
Traditional
Silk and linen are the traditional gifts for a 12th anniversary. These soft and comfortable textiles are used on a variety of products. Consider a soft linen sheet set, a silky robe or a satin pillowcase.
Modern
Pearls are the modern gift for a 12th anniversary. Find pearl jewelry to add a timeless touch to any jewelry collection. You can also find items featuring pearl accents, including picture frames showcasing a favorite photo of the couple.
Flower
The peony is the flower of choice for a 12th anniversary. This popular flower makes a lovely floral arrangement, using either one shade of blooms or multiple colors. Find pink, yellow, white, orange, or red peonies to celebrate your 12th anniversary.
Gemstone
Jade is the 12th anniversary gemstone. This vibrant green stone can make a stunning piece of jewelry, ranging from earrings to necklaces and bracelets.
13th Anniversary
Thirteen is not always an unlucky number. Honor your 13th anniversary with these gift ideas.
Traditional
Lace is the traditional gift for a 13th anniversary. Discover clothing and undergarments with lace accents. Or, if you can’t find a true lace gift, consider a play on words and purchase a new pair of shoes with laces.
Modern
The modern gift for year 13 is textiles or fur. This broad category gives you countless options for gifts. Choose a new clothing item for your partner—perhaps one that they can wear on your anniversary date. Or, suggest a day of shopping for a new outfit so that your partner can choose something they truly love.
Flower
Chrysanthemums are typically associated with royalty, but in this instance, they celebrate a 13th anniversary. These popular fall flowers bloom in a variety of colors, including yellow, red, purple and orange.
Gemstone
Citrine is the 13th anniversary gemstone. This yellow-orange stone is vibrant, making it a lovely choice for anyone who enjoys adding color to their jewelry collection.
14th Anniversary
A thoughtful gift for your partner can be the perfect way to celebrate your 14th year of marriage. Here are some gifts inspired by traditional and modern lists.
Traditional
Ivory is the traditional gift for the 14th anniversary. For this gift, choose items that are ivory in color—not actual ivory, of course. Consider a set of ivory bed linens that exude comfort or ivory cashmere sweater that’s truly elegant.
Modern
Gold jewelry is the modern gift suggestion for 14 years of marriage. Consider a piece with meaning to you as a couple, such as matching rings or bracelets. Gold jewelry can also be engraved with your wedding date or a special phrase.
Flower
The dahlia is the flower for a 14th anniversary. This flower features several statement-making shapes, from tiny pom-poms to oversized blooms. It comes in several shades, including peach, orange, yellow, pink and more.
Gemstone
Opal is the 14th anniversary gemstone. This translucent gem is well loved and makes a stunning piece of jewelry, making it a thoughtful gift for your anniversary.
15th Anniversary
You’ve made it to the midpoint of your second decade of marriage. Celebrate with gifts inspired by these lists.
Traditional
Crystal is the traditional choice for a 15th-anniversary gift. Consider crystal glassware or a bouquet of flowers delivered in a lovely crystal vase.
Modern
The modern gift for year 15 is a watch. Whether you go with a traditional leather strap or choose a smart watch, your partner will surely be pleased.
Flower
The 15th anniversary flower is the rose, a flower long associated with love. So, a bouquet of roses is certainly a thoughtful way to say “Happy anniversary.”
Gemstone
Rubies are the gemstone for this anniversary, also marking the color of love: red. A piece of ruby jewelry will be a much-loved 15th anniversary gift.
Note: After the 15th anniversary, the flower and gemstone lists only offer gift suggestions every 5 years.
16th Anniversary
Celebrate your 16th year of marriage with these traditional and modern gift ideas.
Traditional
Wax is the traditional gift for year 16, making candles a logical choice for a gift. Find scented candles and candlesticks that suit your home.
Modern
Silver serving pieces are the recommended gift for the 16th anniversary. Serving utensils can be a welcomed gift for anyone who loves to entertain, so pick up some new pieces for your partner.
Flower
Statice is the flower for this anniversary. It features vibrant blue or purple blooms, which make a lovely bouquet.
Gemstone
The 16th anniversary gemstone is peridot, a gem that comes in several shades of green. This vibrant gem pairs well with sterling silver settings.
17th Anniversary
Seventeen years together is certainly worthy of a celebration. Check out these gift ideas for your 17th anniversary.
Traditional
Furniture is the traditional choice for year 17. Think about what pieces in your home are due for a replacement—or as a splurge, give an entire room an update.
Modern
Celebrate with a toast by choosing wine and spirits as a gift—the modern gift for the 17th anniversary. Invest in a nice bottle or wine or a favorite liquor that your partner enjoys.
Flower
The red carnation is the 17th-anniversary flower. It features a boldly hued bloom that will brighten anyone’s day.
Gemstone
The carnelian, a red-orange stone, is the gemstone for year 17. Its vibrant color pairs well with many types of jewelry.
18th Anniversary
Year 18 calls for meaningful celebration with gifts inspired by these lists.
Traditional and Modern
On some lists, porcelain is both the traditional and modern gift for an 18th anniversary. This hardy material is featured on dinnerware, coffee mugs, vases, pottery and more. Consider one of these pieces to celebrate the occasion.
Other lists include appliances as the recommended gift, making both small and large kitchen electrics a gift option, too.
Flower
There isn’t a specific flower associated with this anniversary, so choose a bouquet featuring your partner’s favorite blooms.
Gemstone
The gemstone is cat’s eye, a gem that comes in yellow-brown and green-yellow hues. It’s defined by tiny inclusions that make it appear like a cat’s eye.
19th Anniversary
As you approach two decades of marriage, consider these gift ideas to celebrate the occasion.
Traditional and Modern
Gift lists also vary for the 19th anniversary, with some listing bronze as the gift of choice. Other lists include jade as the gift. Bronze furnishings and home accents or a jade-hued piece of clothing or jewelry can align with these lists.
Flower
Chrysanthemums are, again, the flower for this anniversary, just as they were for the 13th. They come in a bronze color, which can play off of the traditional gift suggestion of bronze.
Gemstone
Aquamarine is the gemstore for the 18th anniversary. This gem features a beautiful light blue color reminiscent of the sea.
20th Anniversary
Two decades of marriage are complete—a milestone worth celebrating. Here are some gift ideas for celebrating your 20th year together as a married couple.
Traditional
China is the 20th anniversary gift. Perhaps that fine china from your wedding is due for a replacement, so now’s the time to find new place settings that you love.
Modern
The modern gift for year 20 is platinum. This high-quality metal can be found on dinnerware, jewelry, and more, giving you several ideas for modern-inspired gifts.
Flower
The 20th-anniversary flower is the aster. This star-shaped flower comes in several lovely colors, including purple, pink, blue and white.
Gemstone
The emerald is the gemstone for year 20. This rich green stone is a classic and elegant piece that looks lovely on many types of jewelry.
Note: After year 20, most anniversary gift lists feature gift suggestions for every 5 years instead of every year. We’ve included those gift recommendations below.
25th Anniversary
Celebrate 25 years with these creative gift ideas.
Traditional and Modern
Silver is both the traditional and modern choice for 25th-anniversary gifts. Find silver jewelry, dinnerware and serveware, pens and more to celebrate year 25.
Flower
The iris, a flower often associated with royalty, is designated the 25th-anniversary flower. This flower varies in shade from blue to violet, making it a vibrant gift choice.
Gemstone
To align with the silver theme of the 25th anniversary, silver jubilee is the gemstone. A variety of silver jewelry options are available at many price points to celebrate the occasion.
30th Anniversary
Celebrate three decades of marriage with thoughtful gifts inspired by these ideas.
Traditional
Pearls are the traditional gift for the 30th year of marriage. Find pearl jewelry that is a timeless addition to any jewelry collection.
Modern
Diamonds are the modern gift of choice for year 25. In addition to diamond jewelry, consider other accessories and home accents that may feature diamonds.
Flower
The lovely lily is the flower that celebrates the 30th anniversary. This flower features bold blooms in hues of red, orange, pink, yellow, and white.
Gemstone
Pearl jubilee is the gemstone for the 30th anniversary, allowing you to choose pearl jewelry to honor traditional, modern, and gemstone lists for this year.
35th Anniversary
The 35th year of marriage is well worth celebrating with these gift ideas.
Traditional
Coral is the traditional gift for year 35. Consider a coastal-inspired dinner or a decorative item crafted of real or faux coral.
Modern
Jade is the modern gift suggestion. If you don’t want to purchase jade jewelry, consider finding a jade-colored gift that suits your partner’s interests.
Flower
There is not a specific flower associated with this anniversary, so choose a flower your partner loves.
Gemstone
Emerald makes a repeat appearance on gift lists to celebrate the 35th anniversary.
40th Anniversary
Four decades of marriage calls for a celebration with thoughtful gifts for your partner.
Traditional and Modern
Ruby is the gift of choice on both traditional and modern gift lists. Use the rich red hue as inspiration as you choose a gift for your partner.
Flower
The gladiolus is the flower for year 40. This spiky flower comes in a rainbow of colors, including red, pink, purple, orange and more.
Gemstone
Ruby is also the gemstone for the 40th anniversary. This red stone perfectly captures the love you have for your partner.
45th Anniversary
Traditional and Modern
Sapphire is the traditional and modern gift for the 45th anniversary. Sapphire-studded jewelry, of course, is one option. Or, you can use the rich blue hue of the sapphire gemstone as inspiration as you shop.
Flower
Keeping with the blue theme, the flower for year 45 is the blue iris, which makes a bold statement as a gift for your partner.
Gemstone
Sapphire is also the gem for this year of marriage. This sparkling gem will look lovely on any piece of jewelry.
50th Anniversary
A half-century of marriage is a milestone many couples hope to reach. Celebrate your 50th year together with these gift ideas.
Traditional and Modern
Gold makes another appearance on anniversary lists and is often used to celebrate year 50. Gold jewelry and watches, golden flowers, and gold home accents are just some options for this year.
Flower
Yellow roses honor year 50 to keep with the golden theme. A beautiful bouquet of yellow roses will be a cherished gift.
Gemstone
Carrying the gold theme further, the golden jubilee is the gemstone to celebrate year 50.
55th Anniversary
Traditional and Modern
Emerald appears again on gift lists, serving as the traditional and modern recommendation for the 55th year of marriage. Emerald jewelry or emerald-hued gifts will honor this tradition.
Flower
The lovely calla lily makes another appearance on anniversary lists, being used to celebrate the 55th anniversary as well.
Gemstone
Alexandrite is the 55th-anniversary gemstone, one that’s associated with good luck. After all, it took good fortune for you to reach the 55-year milestone in your marriage.
60th Anniversary
Six decades of marriage is an accomplishment that only some couples have the honor of reaching. Celebrate your achievement with a thoughtful gift.
Traditional and Modern
Diamonds are the traditional and modern gift for year 60, making a piece of diamond jewelry a well-appreciated and on-theme gift.
Flower
Choose a flower you love for this occasion, as no flower is associated with this anniversary.
Gemstone
Diamond, too, is the gemstone of choice to celebrate six decades of marriage.
Additional Anniversary Years
Many gift lists stop at year 60 since many couples do not celebrate anniversaries beyond this. However, if you’re fortunate to celebrate more than 60 years of marriage, here’s a rundown of gift suggestions for milestone years.
- 65 years: Blue sapphire
- 70 years: Platinum
- 75 years: Diamond or gold
- 80 years: Oak
- 85 years: Moonstone
- 90 years: Granite
The History of Anniversary Gifts
Anniversary gift giving is a tradition that dates back to ancient times, but today’s traditional anniversary gift ideas first took hold in the 1800s. In Germany, couples would celebrate silver or gold anniversaries, marking 25 and 50 years of marriage, respectively, with gifts that were crafted of those materials. Couples—or friends of the couple—would gift them silver wreaths on their 25th anniversary and gold wreaths to mark 50 years of marriage.
During the Victoria era in the late 19th century, anniversary gift giving truly took hold, and the anniversary gift tradition began. In the 1800s, the anniversary gift tradition began to appear in popular books, including The Old Farmers’ Almanac, which outlined anniversary gifts celebrating 1 month of marriage (sugar gifts) to 75 years of marriage (diamond gifts). Etiquette books and even dictionaries soon began to adopt these anniversary gift traditions, outlining specific types of gifts for milestone anniversaries.
Today’s anniversary gift lists feature gift ideas for every anniversary, whether you’re celebrating your 4th or your 40th. However, these exhaustive lists did not appear until the 20th century. Once they did appear, different types of gift lists began to emerge. Etiquette expert Emily Post’s first anniversary gift list debuted in her 1922 book, where she detailed gift suggestions for eight milestone anniversaries. Not long after, in 1937, the American National Retail Jewelers Association introduced an anniversary gift list focusing on milestone anniversaries and offering gift suggestions tied to those years—some jewelry gifts and some not. In later years, the organization refined the list and offered additional gift suggestions for other years.
Once these anniversary gift lists were established, others began to appear. Today, there are a variety of gift ideas available, with some standard gifts across lists as well as some regional differences. Even more, there are four distinct types of anniversary gift lists—traditional, modern, flower, and gemstone—giving you plenty of options as you shop for an anniversary gift. Learn more about the history behind these lists to discover the right one for you to use as inspiration as you shop.
Traditional Anniversary Gifts
Traditional anniversary gift ideas stem from Emily Post’s 1922 list. Although this list has evolved over time, it serves as the first exhaustive list of anniversary gift ideas. Even though traditional, these gifts typically have withstood the test of time and remain relevant today. Many feature a material as inspiration—such as paper or silver—which means that a wide variety of gift ideas can be found from these recommendations. This gift list is considered traditional simply because of its history.
Modern Anniversary Gifts
Despite its name, modern anniversary gift lists have been around for quite a while. These lists were introduced by the American National Retail Jewelers Association back in 1937. This list aimed to compete with the traditional gift list, offering practical gift suggestions. Whereas the traditional anniversary gift list might often include a gift that’s celebratory but symbolic, the modern gift list instead offers gift ideas that the recipient might be able to use in different ways.
When comparing these two lists, neither one is considered more appropriate—it’s simply a matter of navigating the lists to find an item that’s most suitable for the recipient. Finding the right gift can certainly vary from person to person, so having multiple gift lists for inspiration can help anyone find the right gift for their partner.
Flower Anniversary Gifts
The onset of anniversary gift list inspired retailers to get in on the action. After all, if you can market your products as the appropriate anniversary gift for any year, you just might drum up some extra sales. So, flower anniversary gift lists were another logical addition to the wedding anniversary gift world. After all, flowers are always tied to celebratory occasions, making them an appropriate gift for any anniversary.
Offering a flower anniversary gift list takes the guesswork out of choosing a bouquet. Instead, you can simply discover the flower associated with any anniversary, whether you’re celebrating your 2nd anniversary or your 30th. A lovely bouquet can be gifted alone or with another traditional or modern anniversary gift, or you can display an arrangement of anniversary flowers on the dinner table on your anniversary date night.
Gemstone Anniversary Gifts
Jewelry is another classic gift, one that can celebrate a variety of occasions, from birthdays to anniversaries. So, it’s only natural that a gemstone anniversary gift list also exists. You can find gemstones associated with every year of marriage, which allows ample opportunity to gift your partner with sparkling gifts. While you might not opt to use the gemstone gift list every year, it can certainly inspire some gift ideas for those milestone celebrations. Simply find out what gemstone is associated with your anniversary year, and find a lovely piece of jewelry showcasing that gemstone. Whether you select a bracelet, ring, or necklace, your partner will certainly be delighted by the thoughtful gift.
Conclusion
Thanks to this guide, you’re ready to celebrate any anniversary, from your 1st to your 90th. Share your favorite anniversary gifts over the years in the comments below. With traditional, modern, flower, and gemstone lists to choose from, you’ll have no trouble finding the right anniversary gift for every year.