Anniversary names are the names given to each year of marriage to mark the milestone of the wedding anniversary. The common names for the traditional anniversaries are:
- 1st anniversary: Paper anniversary
- 2nd anniversary: Cotton anniversary
- 3rd anniversary: Leather anniversary
- 4th anniversary: Linen & Silk anniversary (in the USA) or Fruit & Flower anniversary (in the UK)
- 5th anniversary: Wood anniversary
- 6th anniversary: Iron anniversary
- 7th anniversary: Copper or wool anniversary
- 8th anniversary: Bronze or pottery anniversary
- 9th anniversary: Willow anniversary
- 10th anniversary: Tin or aluminum anniversary
- 11th anniversary: Steel anniversary
- 12th anniversary: Silk or linen anniversary
- 13th anniversary: Lace anniversary
- 14th anniversary: Ivory anniversary
- 15th anniversary: Crystal anniversary
- 20th anniversary: Platinum or China anniversary
- 25th anniversary: Silver anniversary
- 30th anniversary: Pearl anniversary
- 35th anniversary: Coral anniversary
- 40th anniversary: Ruby anniversary
- 45th anniversary: Sapphire anniversary
- 50th anniversary: Golden anniversary
- 55th anniversary: Emerald anniversary
- 60th anniversary: Diamond anniversary
- 65th anniversary: Blue sapphire anniversary
Paper Anniversary
The first anniversary is often referred to as the “Paper Anniversary”. The idea behind this is that the paper is fragile and delicate and represents the need to handle the relationship with care and sensitivity. It also symbolize the beginning of a new chapter in the couple’s lives together and the delicate nature of the new relationship. The paper is a symbol of the blank page on which a couple will continue to write their love story.
A great Paper anniversary gift could be something like:
- A handwritten love letter
- A book or journal
- A painting or a print
- A map of a special place
- A framed photograph or artwork
- A scrapbook or photo album
You can be creative and think outside the box. A paper gift can be something that is made of paper but not necessarily something that you can write on. Consider the preferences and interests of your significant other when choosing a paper anniversary gift. The most important thing is that the gift is something that holds a special meaning and will be cherished.
Cotton Anniversary
The second anniversary is often referred to as the “Cotton Anniversary”. The Cotton wedding anniversary is a milestone that marks the completion of 2 years of marriage. Cotton symbolizes the comfort, durability and versatility of a couple’s relationship, much like how cotton is a soft, strong and versatile fabric.
A “Cotton” anniversary perfect gift would be:
- A cotton piece of clothing, like a shirt, socks or gloves
- A cotton blanket or pillow
- A cotton bathrobes
- A home decor item or piece of artwork made of cotton
You can also be creative and think outside the box, a cotton gift could be a cotton candy maker, a cotton candy bouquet, a cotton candy flavoured cake or cotton candy flavoured ice cream.
Leather Anniversary
The third anniversary is often referred to as the “Leather Anniversary”. The leather is a long-lasting material, much like a marriage that has stood the test of time. It symbolizes the strength, comfort and protection. The durable and flexible nature of leather reflects the resilience and adaptability of a strong and lasting relationship.
A “Leather” anniversary gift idea includes:
- A leather purse or wallet
- A leather briefcase
- A jacket, belt, gloves or boots
- A leather-bound journal or photo album
A gift could be a piece of furniture or a home decor item made of leather, like a leather armchair, a leather-bound coffee table book or a planner.
Linen or Silk Anniversary
The fourth anniversary is traditionally associated with the material of “Linen or Silk”. The Linen and Silk symbolizes the beauty, sophistication and elegance. The smooth, soft, and luxurious texture of linen and silk reflect the smoothness and comfort of a couple’s relationship, as well as its growing sophistication and elegance over time.
Some popular gift ideas for a fourth anniversary include:
- A piece of linen or silk clothing
- A silk scarf
- Linen bedding or a silk duvet cover
It’s important to give a gift that holds personal meaning to the couple celebrating their anniversary. Some people might prefer to give a gift that has nothing to do with linen or silk, but it holds a special significance for the couple, like a special piece of art or jewelry.
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Wood Anniversary
The fifth anniversary is traditionally associated with the material of “Wood”. Wood is often seen as a symbol of growth and stability, which are all qualities that a couple strives to develop in their relationship over the years. The sturdy and enduring nature of wood reflects the solidity and dependability of a couple’s relationship, as well as its ability to grow and mature over time.
Great gift ideas for a fifth anniversary include:
- Wooden furniture or home decor items
- A wooden cutting board or kitchen utensils
- A wooden watch or jewelry
- A wooden picture frame
- A wooden sculpture or carving
Iron Anniversary
The sixth anniversary is traditionally associated with the material of “Iron”. Iron is often seen as a symbol of strength and represents couple’s journey together, their bond, and the stability of their relationship.
Some popular gift ideas for a 6th anniversary include:
- Iron home decor items
- Iron sculpture or artwork
- A set of iron cookware
- Iron jewelry
- Iron wall hangings
Wool or Copper Anniversary
Traditionally the 7th anniversary is called “Wool or Copper”. Wool is often seen as a symbol of warmth, comfort and security. Copper is considered as a symbol of strength, beauty, wealth and couple’s journey together.
Popular gift ideas include:
- A wool blanket
- A woolen sweater
- A copper artwork
- Copper jewelry
- Copper kitchenware
Bronze or Pottery Anniversary
The 8th anniversary is traditionally called “Bronze or pottery anniversary”. Bronze symbolize resistance and durability while pottery is considered a symbol of creativity, artistry and beauty of the couple’s relationship.
Some popular gift ideas for the 8th anniversary include:
- A bronze or pottery sculpture or artwork
- A bronze jewelry
- Bronze figurines
- A pottery vase or dish ware
- A pottery-making class
Willow Anniversary
The 9th anniversary is associated with the Willow tree, which symbolizes the flexibility, grace, resilience and adaptability. It represents the ability of two people to work effectively together, their bond and the beauty of their relationship.
Popular 9th anniversary gift ideas:
- Willow picnic basket
- Garden structures like arbors or trellises
- Willow charcoal for drawing and painting
- Figurines make from willow tree wood
- Furniture such as chairs or small table
Tin or Aluminum Anniversary
The 10th anniversary is traditionally associated with the material of “Tin or Aluminum”. Tin and Aluminum are often seen as a symbol of longevity, flexibility and adaptability in a marriage. It represents a strong bond between the couple and a reminder that they will weather any storm together without breaking.
Some popular gift ideas for a 10th anniversary:
- Tin or Aluminum home decor items
- A Tin or Aluminum sculpture or artwork
- Tin or Aluminum jewelry
- A set of Tin or Aluminum cookware
Steel Anniversary
The 11th anniversary, called a “Steel anniversary” is often seen as a symbol of strength and permanence. It represents couple’s stability, having survived the first decade of marriage and starting another ten years of commitment.
A great gift for the 11th anniversary would be:
- Steel home decor item
- A Steel sculpture or artwork
- Steel jewelry
- A set of Steel cookware
Silk or Linen Anniversary
The 12th anniversary is traditionally associated with the material of “Silk or Linen”. Linen symbolizes simplicity, purity, and elegance and silk is often seen as a luxurious and elegant material. The 12th anniversary represents the comfort and luxury that a couple has built together and anticipation that the next 12 years will be “smooth as silk”.
Popular gift ideas for 12th anniversary include:
- Silk lingerie
- Linen bedding or a silk duvet cover
- A silk scarf
- A piece of linen or silk clothing
- A piece of Silk or Linen home decor
- Silk or linen tableware
Lace Anniversary
The 13th anniversary is traditionally associated with the material of “Lace”, a symbol of beauty, delicacy and elegance much like the delicate and complex design of lace fabric. It represents couple’s journey together, their bond, and the beauty of their relationship.
Great gift ideas for a Lace anniversary would be:
- Lace clothing or lingerie
- Lace home decor items
- Lace tablecloth or napkins
Ivory Anniversary
The 14th anniversary is associated with the material of “Ivory”. It represents the durability, warmth, elegance and purity. Ivory is a hard, dense material that is resistant to wear and tear, symbolizing the couple’s long-lasting love and commitment to each other. Ivory has a warm and creamy appearance, symbolizing the warmth and comfort that the couple shares. The material is pure and natural, often associated with luxury and elegance, representing pure love and commitment to each other and the couple’s sophistication and refined tastes.
Some popular gift ideas for a 14th anniversary include:
- Ivory home decor items
- Ivory sculptures or artwork
- Ivory jewelry, such as a bracelet, earrings, or a pendant
- An ivory-handled knife or letter opener
- Elephant-themed gifts like elephant figurine or art print
These are just suggestions, but the most important aspect of any gift is that it comes from the heart and is a reflection of the love and commitment the couple shares.
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Crystal Anniversary
The 15th anniversary is traditionally associated with the material of “Crystal”. It represents clarity, beauty and elegance. Crystal is clear and transparent, symbolizing the clarity and transparency in the couple’s relationship. It is known for its ability to reflect light, representing the way in which the couple’s love and commitment reflect in their daily lives.
Popular gift ideas for a 15th anniversary celebration include:
- Crystal home decor items such as a vase, bowl or candle holder
- Crystal sculptures or artwork
- Crystal jewelry, such as a pendant, earrings, or a bracelet
- A set of crystal glassware
- A crystal photo frame
Platinum or China Anniversary
The 20th anniversary is traditionally associated with the material of “China” or “Platinum”. China is a symbol of luxury, elegance and beauty. It is also often associated with traditional family values and cultural heritage, symbolizing the couple’s shared history and cultural background. The symbol of platinum on a 20th wedding anniversary represents durability, purity, value and timelessness of the relationship. Platinum is a pure, valuable and precious metal that does not tarnish, corrode or change over time, symbolizing the couple’s pure, unchanging and timeless love and commitment to each other.
Some awesome gift ideas for a 20th anniversary celebration:
- China dish ware
- China sculpture or artwork
- China vase
- A dinner at a Chinese restaurant
- A piece of platinum jewelry, such as a ring, pendant, or earrings
- A custom-made piece of platinum home decor
- A platinum-framed wedding photo
Silver Anniversary
The 25th wedding anniversary is traditionally symbolized by silver. Silver is often seen as a symbol of admiration, awareness, clarity and faith. It represents the hope, promise and commitment to a happy and long-lasting marriage.
Popular gift ideas for a 25th anniversary include:
- A piece of silver jewelry, such as a necklace, bracelet, or earrings
- A Silver key ring
- Silver home decor items such as a vase, picture frame or candle holder
- Silver sculptures or artwork
- A silver-plated photo album or memory book
- A set of silverware
- A silver-plated serving dish or dinnerware set
Pearl or Diamond Anniversary
The 30th anniversary is traditionally associated with “Pearl” or “Diamond”. The pearl is often seen as a symbol of innocence, spiritual transformation, honesty and integrity. Pearl is a natural and pure substance, symbolizing the couple’s pure and unchanging love for each other. The diamond symbolizes strength, affection and everlasting love. A marriage that celebrates 30 years anniversary is as beautiful and durable as a diamond.
Some popular gift ideas for a 30th anniversary include:
- Pearl or diamond jewelry such as a necklace, earrings or bracelets
- Pearl home decor items such as vase or picture frame
- A set of pearl-handled silverware
Coral or Jade Anniversary
The 35th anniversary is associated with “Coral” or “Jade”. Coral is often seen as a symbol of protection, peace, good luck and longevity. Coral is a living organism that grows and thrives in its environment, symbolizing the couple’s growth and thriving relationship. It is a long-lasting, representing the longevity of the couple’s love and commitment to each other. Jade on the other hand, is the stone for luck. It represents prosperity, love, fidelity, stability and compassion.
Some popular gift ideas for a 35th anniversary include:
- Coral jewelry such as a necklace, earrings or bracelets
- A piece of coral sculpture or artwork
- Seafood dinner
Ruby Anniversary
The 40th anniversary is traditionally associated with “Ruby”. Ruby is often seen as a symbol of romantic love, passion and devotion. It is a long-lasting material that can survive for generations, representing the strength, permanence and vitality of couple’s relationship.
Some popular gift ideas for a 40th anniversary include:
- Ruby jewelry such as a necklace, earrings or bracelets
- Ruby home decor items such as vase or picture frame
- A ruby-accented clock
Sapphire Anniversary
The 45th anniversary is traditionally associated with “Sapphire”. It signifies eternal love, affection and loyalty, reflecting the couple’s commitment and devotion to each other. Sapphire is known for its calming blue hue, symbolizing the wisdom and peace the couple have found in each other.
Popular gift ideas for a 45th wedding anniversary celebration:
- Sapphire jewelry such as a necklace, earrings or bracelets
- Sapphire home decor items such as vase or picture frame
- A romantic getaway
- A sapphire-embellished serving dish or dinnerware set
- A sapphire-accented watch or clock
Golden Anniversary
The 50th anniversary is associated with the material of “Gold”. Gold represents wealth, prosperity and success. It is a symbol of passion and affection, reflecting the couple’s deep love. Gold is a valuable, long-lasting material, symbolizing the couple’s life experience and the wisdom they have gained over their many years together.
Some popular gift ideas for a 50th anniversary include:
- Gold jewelry such as a necklace, earrings or bracelets
- A gold-handled keepsake box or trinket dish
- A gold-embellished serving dish or dinnerware set
- A set of gold-rimmed wine glasses
- A gold-accented watch or clock
Overall, the symbol of gold on a 50th wedding anniversary represents the couple’s love, prosperity and permanence in their relationship.
Emerald Anniversary
The Emerald wedding anniversary is a milestone that marks the completion of 55 years of marriage. Emeralds symbolize adoration, love and devotion and reflect the couple’s commitment to growing and evolving together over the years. The beauty of the gemstone, the rich green colour of emeralds is also symbolic of the couple’s love and connection to each other.
A great gift ideas that incorporates emeralds include:
- Emerald jewelry such as a necklace, earrings or bracelets
- Renewal wedding vows in a ceremony with family and friends
- Create a memory book or scrapbook of their time together
It’s a great opportunity to reflect on the past 55 years together, spend quality time with family a friends, have a party or do something that’s been on the bucket list for a long time.
Diamond Anniversary
The 60th anniversary is known as the “Diamond anniversary”. Diamonds symbolize the strength, durability and eternal commitment of the couple’s love. The 60th anniversary is a remarkable achievement, and diamonds are often used to celebrate this milestone because of their reputation as the hardest natural substance on earth, which reflects the strength and endurance of the couple’s relationship over the years. The beauty and brilliance of diamonds also symbolize the couple’s love, which is meant to shine brightly for the rest of their lives.
Some popular gift ideas for a 60th anniversary include:
- Diamond jewelry such as a necklace, earrings or bracelets
- A diamond-studded watch or clock
- Take a trip to a place they always wanted to visit
It is important to remember that the most important thing is to give a gift that holds personal meaning to the couple celebrating their anniversary.
Blue Sapphire Anniversary
The 65th wedding anniversary, also known as the Blue Sapphire anniversary. This anniversary is a rare and remarkable achievement, and is a testament to the couple’s love, commitment and endurance throughout their many years together. A blue sapphire, is a symbol of loyalty and trust, making it an appropriate choice to mark this significant milestone. The blue color of a sapphire also represents truth, sincerity and devotion. As a gift, a blue sapphire can be given in the form of a piece of jewelry, like a ring or a pendant, or as a loose gemstone.
To celebrate a Blue Sapphire anniversary, couples can:
- Take a trip to a place that has special meaning to them
- Create a memory book or scrapbook of their time together
- Give each other a blue sapphire piece of jewelry as a symbol of their love and commitment.
- Host a party or dinner with family and friends to celebrate their milestone anniversary
Some couples also choose to renew their wedding vows on their blue sapphire anniversary as a way to reaffirm their love and commitment to each other. It’s a great opportunity to reflect on time together, the challenges and joys that were faced and shared together, and to celebrate the love that has grown and sustained the relationship. The key is to make it special, personal and meaningful for the both anniversary celebrants.
