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HISTORY OF ANNIVERSARY GIFTS BY YEAR

Man kissing his wife



Publish Date: May 13, 2020


Ever wonder why paper is the traditional gift for a one-year wedding anniversary or silver is the go-to for 25 years? The practice, which dates back to the Middle Ages, is based on the idea that as each year passes, you’re strengthening your relationship, and the “material” associated with each year is meant to reflect that.

If you like the idea of sticking to tradition but want to give your anniversary gifts a modern spin—and a little more sparkle—there are also gemstones associated with each anniversary. Here’s what you need to know about choosing the right gemstone jewelry for each milestone wedding anniversary.

 


Peridot Gemstone

1ST ANNIVERSARY

Traditional: Paper
Gemstone: Gold or Peridot

Like a new marriage, paper is delicate and needs to be handled with care. Newly married couples are also in the beginning stages of building their lives together and getting their finances in order. Keep things simple, yet elegant, with a piece of gold jewelry. Think cufflinks for him and a timeless gold bracelet for her. Peridot, a bright green gemstone thought to help ward off evil, is also a unique option for an affordable one-year wedding anniversary gift.
 


Sapphire Gemstone

5TH ANNIVERSARY

Traditional: Wood
Gemstone: Sapphire

After five years of marriage, couples have put down solid roots for a strong relationship. Just like wood, sapphire is a hard, durable material that can stand the test of time. Symbolizing purity, loyalty, and trust, a sapphire ring or pendant is an investment in your bond. Sapphire is also the gemstone commemorating 45th and 65th anniversaries. Here’s hoping the next 60 years of marriage are as incredible as the first five!
 


Diamond Gemstone

10TH ANNIVERSARY

Traditional: Aluminum/Tin
Gemstone: Diamond

A decade together is a major milestone, and aluminum or tin represents both the flexibility and durability of your relationship. Diamonds are known for being one of the strongest materials on earth—and it doesn’t hurt that they are also beautiful and eye-catching. As either a 10-year anniversary or a 60-year anniversary gift, diamonds are perfect for both him and her.
 


Emerald Gemstone

20TH ANNIVERSARY

Traditional: China
Gemstone: Emerald

China represents the delicate nature of being in love, and after 20 years together, any couple understands the importance of treating their marriage with care. Emerald is the sacred stone of the goddess Venus and known to preserve love, making it the perfect 20th anniversary or 35th anniversary gift. From understated necklaces to custom rings, emeralds are a unique way to say I love you.
 


Pearl Gemstone

30TH ANNIVERSARY

Traditional: Pearl 
Gemstone: Pearl

After 30 years of marriage, is there any better way to describe your relationship than timeless? Pearls represent the beauty of a long-lasting union that is built over time. Believed to bring happiness to the wearer, pearls are known for their ability to add elegance to any outfit. Whether a ring, necklace, or earrings, celebrating your 30th wedding anniversary with pearls is a classic choice.
 


Ruby Gemstone

40TH ANNIVERSARY

Traditional: Ruby 
Gemstone: Ruby

Known for their fiery red color, rubies are said to possess a flame that never burns out— not unlike your commitment to one another after 40 years of marriage. As the gemstone for celebrating your 15th and 80th anniversaries as well, rubies can be just as timeless as a pearl or a diamond. Versatile and eye-catching, a ruby necklace, bracelet, or ring is perfect for a special occasion.


Gold

50TH ANNIVERSARY

Traditional: Gold 
Gemstone: Gold

Dubbed the “golden anniversary”, 50 years of marriage is truly something to celebrate. Often associated with wealth, wisdom, and optimism, gold is strong and resistant to corrosion, just like your decades-long relationship. After years of anniversaries, take your gift-giving back to basics with an elegant gold necklace or a pair of stud earrings.
 

Education from the Experts

diamond bracelets
WEDDING ANNIVERSARY GIFT GUIDE

Whether you’re just starting out or about to hit a big anniversary, get help selecting the right gift to celebrate key milestones in your relationship.

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