Anniversaries are one of the most natural moments for jewelry: a piece worn every day becomes a quiet reminder of a shared year. Tradition offers a starting point, but the best gifts are personal.
Traditional anniversary materials
| Anniversary | Traditional material | Jewelry idea |
|---|---|---|
| 25th | Silver | A sterling silver piece with an engraved date |
| 30th | Pearl | Pearl studs or a single pearl pendant |
| 35th | Coral | A coral-toned gem, or a piece that recalls the tradition |
| 40th | Ruby | A ruby pendant, ring or earrings |
| 45th | Sapphire | A sapphire ring or earrings |
| 50th | Gold | A gold band, chain or bracelet |
| 55th | Emerald | An emerald piece worn with care |
| 60th | Diamond | A diamond piece to mark a lifetime |
Lists vary by country, and modern versions assign different materials to some years.
Personal ideas for any year
- An eternity or half-eternity band, long associated with anniversaries.
- Birthstones of the couple or of their children. Read A guide to birthstones.
- An engraved date or coordinates inside a band or on a pendant.
- A piece that completes a set: earrings to match a necklace given years before.
The early years
Traditional lists assign modest materials to the first years, such as paper and cotton. Jewelry can still honour them: a fine chain, a pendant with an engraved date, or a first piece of a collection to be added to year after year.
Milestone years
Ten, twenty and twenty-five years often call for something more significant. Silver marks the 25th in traditional lists; many couples choose a piece in gold or set with diamonds for any milestone. A ring that sits beside the wedding band is a classic choice.
The eternity ring
An eternity ring is a band set with stones, either all the way round (full eternity) or across the top (half eternity). The continuous line of stones is often associated with enduring love, which is why eternity rings are frequently given on anniversaries or after the birth of a child. Half-eternity bands are easier to resize and more comfortable for many people.
Engraving ideas
- The date of the wedding or of the first meeting.
- Initials joined together.
- Coordinates of a meaningful place.
- A word or short phrase that belongs to the two of you.
For daily wear
An anniversary piece is often worn every day. Choose durable stones and secure settings, and a metal that matches the rings already worn.
Sources: Traditional anniversary lists (UK and US); lists vary by country and modern versions exist.
Frequently asked questions
What is the traditional gift for a 25th anniversary?
Silver. The 50th is gold and the 60th is diamond in the traditional lists.
Is an eternity ring an anniversary gift?
It often is. A band set with stones all or part of the way round has long been associated with anniversaries.
What is a full eternity ring?
A band with stones set all the way around. It is usually difficult or impossible to resize.
What if our anniversary material does not suit jewelry?
Treat the list as inspiration, not a rule. The best gift is one that will be worn and loved.
