Anniversary Gift Guide: Traditional and Modern Ideas by Year

Each wedding anniversary carries traditional and modern gift themes — including specific gemstones and metals that make jewelry an ideal way to celebrate. This comprehensive guide covers every milestone year with jewelry gift ideas that honor tradition while reflecting contemporary taste.

Early Years (1-5)

1st Anniversary — Paper (Gold in Modern)

Start the tradition with a meaningful first piece. Delicate gold jewelry sets the tone:

• A thin stackable ring to begin a ring stack you add to each year
• A pendant with personal significance
• Pearl earrings for timeless elegance

2nd Anniversary — Cotton (Garnet)

Garnet's deep red symbolizes passion and devotion. See our garnet guide. A garnet pendant or ring makes a meaningful second anniversary gift.

3rd Anniversary — Leather (Pearl)

Pearls represent wisdom gained through experience — fitting for three years of shared life. See our pearl guide.

4th Anniversary — Linen (Blue Topaz)

Blue topaz symbolizes communication and trust. Available in stunning sizes at accessible prices. See our topaz guide.

5th Anniversary — Wood (Sapphire)

Five years marks the first major milestone. Sapphires represent loyalty and fidelity — a powerful statement of enduring commitment. See our sapphire guide.

Middle Years (6-15)

6th Anniversary — Candy/Iron (Amethyst)

Amethyst's regal purple adds sophistication. Available in impressive sizes.

7th Anniversary — Wool/Copper (Onyx)

Dramatic black onyx pairs beautifully with gold for a bold statement.

8th Anniversary — Pottery/Bronze (Tourmaline)

Tourmaline's rainbow of colors offers endless options. See our tourmaline guide.

10th Anniversary — Tin/Diamond

The first "major" anniversary. Diamonds are the traditional choice. An eternity ring is the quintessential 10th anniversary gift. See our eternity ring guide.

15th Anniversary — Crystal (Ruby)

Rubies — the "King of Gemstones" — mark 15 years of enduring passion. See our ruby guide.

Milestone Years (20-50)

20th Anniversary — China (Emerald)

Emeralds symbolize renewal and growth — fitting for two decades of shared life. See our emerald guide.

25th Anniversary — Silver

The "Silver Anniversary." Sterling silver jewelry or a significant piece set in silver honors tradition. See our silver guide.

30th Anniversary — Pearl

A significant pearl piece — perhaps a quality strand or South Sea pearl earrings.

40th Anniversary — Ruby

A milestone deserving an exceptional ruby piece — the finest ruby you can afford.

50th Anniversary — Gold

The "Golden Anniversary." A landmark celebration deserving a significant gold piece or diamond jewelry set in gold.

Choosing the Right Anniversary Gift

• You do not need to follow the traditional gem exactly — use it as inspiration
• Consider what she already has and what would complement her collection
• A tennis bracelet or eternity ring works for any milestone year
• Birthstone jewelry featuring your wedding month adds personal meaning

Browse our collections and read our complete buying guide for more inspiration.

Looking for the perfect present? Explore our curated gift ideas.