Celebrate Love with Traditional Anniversary Jewelry
Wedding anniversaries mark the milestones of a couple's journey together, celebrating years of love, commitment, and shared experiences. Each anniversary year has traditional and modern gift themes, with many featuring specific gemstones and materials that make jewelry the perfect way to commemorate these special occasions.
This comprehensive guide explores anniversary jewelry gifts by year, from the first anniversary to the 60th and beyond. We'll cover traditional and modern themes, recommended jewelry pieces, symbolic meanings, and tips for choosing the perfect anniversary gift.
Why Jewelry Makes the Perfect Anniversary Gift
Timeless and Lasting
- Symbolizes enduring love and commitment
- Lasts a lifetime, like your marriage
- Can be worn daily as reminder of your bond
- Becomes cherished heirloom
Traditional and Meaningful
- Follows time-honored anniversary traditions
- Each year has specific gemstone or material
- Symbolic significance adds depth
- Connects to centuries of tradition
Personal and Romantic
- Can be personalized with dates, initials, or messages
- Reflects your unique relationship
- Shows thoughtfulness and care
- Celebrates your shared history
Versatile for Every Budget
- Options from affordable to luxury
- Can be simple or elaborate
- Suitable for any style preference
- Investment in your relationship
Anniversary Jewelry by Year: Complete Guide
1st Anniversary: Gold (Modern: Clocks)
Traditional theme: Paper (modern interpretation: gold jewelry)
Gemstone: Gold
Symbolism: Strength, purity, and lasting value
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Gold necklace or pendant
- Gold bracelet or bangle
- Gold earrings (studs or hoops)
- Gold ring or band
- Delicate gold chain
Why it's perfect: Gold represents the precious foundation of your marriage and the bright future ahead.
Price range: $100-$1,000+
2nd Anniversary: Garnet
Traditional theme: Cotton
Gemstone: Garnet (deep red)
Symbolism: Passion, devotion, and deep love
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Garnet pendant necklace
- Garnet stud earrings
- Garnet ring
- Garnet bracelet
- Garnet and gold combination
Why it's perfect: The rich red color symbolizes the passion and warmth of your growing relationship.
Price range: $75-$500
3rd Anniversary: Pearl
Traditional theme: Leather
Gemstone: Pearl
Symbolism: Beauty, purity, and wisdom gained through experience
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Pearl necklace (strand or pendant)
- Pearl stud earrings
- Pearl bracelet
- Pearl ring
- Pearl and diamond combination
Why it's perfect: Like a pearl formed over time, your marriage has grown more beautiful through shared experiences.
Price range: $100-$2,000+
4th Anniversary: Blue Topaz
Traditional theme: Fruit/Flowers
Gemstone: Blue Topaz
Symbolism: Love, fidelity, and clear communication
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Blue topaz pendant
- Blue topaz earrings
- Blue topaz ring
- Blue topaz bracelet
Why it's perfect: The clear blue stone represents the transparency and trust in your relationship.
Price range: $75-$600
5th Anniversary: Sapphire
Traditional theme: Wood
Gemstone: Sapphire (blue)
Symbolism: Loyalty, wisdom, and nobility
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Sapphire pendant necklace
- Sapphire stud earrings
- Sapphire ring (eternity band or solitaire)
- Sapphire bracelet
- Sapphire and diamond combination
Why it's perfect: Sapphire's durability and beauty mirror the strength and depth of five years together.
Price range: $200-$5,000+
6th Anniversary: Amethyst
Traditional theme: Iron/Candy
Gemstone: Amethyst (purple)
Symbolism: Peace, stability, and courage
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Amethyst pendant
- Amethyst earrings
- Amethyst ring
- Amethyst bracelet
Why it's perfect: The calming purple hue represents the peace and harmony you've built together.
Price range: $75-$800
7th Anniversary: Onyx
Traditional theme: Wool/Copper
Gemstone: Onyx (black)
Symbolism: Strength, protection, and grounding
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Onyx pendant or necklace
- Onyx cufflinks (for him)
- Onyx ring
- Onyx bracelet
- Onyx and gold combination
Why it's perfect: Onyx represents the solid foundation and strength of your seven-year bond.
Price range: $100-$700
8th Anniversary: Tourmaline
Traditional theme: Bronze/Pottery
Gemstone: Tourmaline (various colors)
Symbolism: Compassion, creativity, and balance
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Tourmaline pendant (pink, green, or watermelon)
- Tourmaline earrings
- Tourmaline ring
- Multi-color tourmaline bracelet
Why it's perfect: Tourmaline's variety of colors reflects the many facets of your relationship.
Price range: $150-$1,500
9th Anniversary: Lapis Lazuli
Traditional theme: Pottery/Willow
Gemstone: Lapis Lazuli (deep blue)
Symbolism: Truth, wisdom, and inner vision
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Lapis lazuli pendant
- Lapis lazuli earrings
- Lapis lazuli ring
- Lapis lazuli bracelet
Why it's perfect: The deep blue stone symbolizes the depth of understanding you've developed.
Price range: $75-$600
10th Anniversary: Diamond
Traditional theme: Tin/Aluminum
Gemstone: Diamond
Symbolism: Eternal love, strength, and commitment
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Diamond eternity band
- Diamond pendant necklace
- Diamond stud earrings (upgrade)
- Diamond tennis bracelet
- Diamond anniversary ring
- Upgrade engagement ring with diamonds
Why it's perfect: A decade together deserves the ultimate symbol of enduring love—diamonds are forever.
Price range: $500-$10,000+
11th Anniversary: Turquoise
Traditional theme: Steel
Gemstone: Turquoise (blue-green)
Symbolism: Protection, healing, and good fortune
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Turquoise pendant
- Turquoise earrings
- Turquoise ring
- Turquoise bracelet
Price range: $100-$800
12th Anniversary: Jade
Traditional theme: Silk/Linen
Gemstone: Jade (green)
Symbolism: Harmony, balance, and prosperity
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Jade pendant
- Jade bangle bracelet
- Jade earrings
- Jade ring
Price range: $100-$1,500
13th Anniversary: Citrine
Traditional theme: Lace
Gemstone: Citrine (yellow/golden)
Symbolism: Joy, abundance, and positive energy
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Citrine pendant
- Citrine earrings
- Citrine ring
- Citrine bracelet
Price range: $100-$900
14th Anniversary: Opal
Traditional theme: Ivory
Gemstone: Opal (iridescent)
Symbolism: Hope, creativity, and passion
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Opal pendant
- Opal earrings
- Opal ring
- Opal bracelet
Why it's perfect: Opal's play of colors represents the ever-changing beauty of your relationship.
Price range: $150-$2,000+
15th Anniversary: Ruby
Traditional theme: Crystal
Gemstone: Ruby (red)
Symbolism: Passion, vitality, and deep love
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Ruby pendant necklace
- Ruby stud earrings
- Ruby ring (eternity band or solitaire)
- Ruby bracelet
- Ruby and diamond combination
Why it's perfect: Fifteen years together deserves the passionate red of rubies, symbolizing enduring love.
Price range: $300-$8,000+
20th Anniversary: Emerald
Traditional theme: China
Gemstone: Emerald (green)
Symbolism: Renewal, growth, and prosperity
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Emerald pendant necklace
- Emerald stud earrings
- Emerald ring
- Emerald bracelet
- Emerald and diamond combination
Why it's perfect: Two decades together is a major milestone worthy of precious emeralds.
Price range: $500-$15,000+
25th Anniversary: Silver
Traditional theme: Silver
Gemstone: Silver (metal)
Symbolism: Brilliance, clarity, and lasting value
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Sterling silver necklace
- Silver bracelet or bangle
- Silver earrings
- Silver ring
- Silver and diamond combination
- Upgrade to platinum (modern alternative)
Why it's perfect: The Silver Anniversary is a major milestone celebrating a quarter-century of love.
Price range: $100-$3,000+
30th Anniversary: Pearl
Traditional theme: Pearl
Gemstone: Pearl
Symbolism: Wisdom, beauty, and purity
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Pearl necklace (upgrade to higher quality)
- Pearl earrings
- Pearl bracelet
- Pearl ring
- South Sea or Tahitian pearls (luxury option)
Why it's perfect: Thirty years of marriage, like a pearl, has been formed through time and experience.
Price range: $200-$10,000+
35th Anniversary: Emerald or Jade
Traditional theme: Coral/Jade
Gemstone: Emerald or Jade
Symbolism: Growth, harmony, and prosperity
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Emerald or jade pendant
- Emerald or jade earrings
- Emerald or jade ring
- Emerald or jade bracelet
Price range: $300-$12,000+
40th Anniversary: Ruby
Traditional theme: Ruby
Gemstone: Ruby (red)
Symbolism: Passion, vitality, and enduring love
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Ruby pendant necklace
- Ruby earrings
- Ruby ring (eternity band)
- Ruby bracelet
- Ruby and diamond combination
Why it's perfect: Forty years of marriage deserves the passionate fire of rubies.
Price range: $500-$20,000+
45th Anniversary: Sapphire
Traditional theme: Sapphire
Gemstone: Sapphire (blue)
Symbolism: Loyalty, wisdom, and nobility
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Sapphire pendant
- Sapphire earrings
- Sapphire ring
- Sapphire bracelet
Price range: $400-$15,000+
50th Anniversary: Gold
Traditional theme: Gold
Gemstone: Gold (metal)
Symbolism: Strength, prosperity, and lasting value
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Gold necklace (upgrade to higher karat)
- Gold bracelet or bangle
- Gold earrings
- Gold ring
- Gold and diamond combination
- Custom gold jewelry piece
Why it's perfect: The Golden Anniversary celebrates fifty years of precious, enduring love.
Price range: $500-$25,000+
55th Anniversary: Alexandrite or Emerald
Traditional theme: Emerald
Gemstone: Alexandrite or Emerald
Symbolism: Change, growth, and renewal
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Alexandrite or emerald pendant
- Alexandrite or emerald earrings
- Alexandrite or emerald ring
Price range: $500-$18,000+
60th Anniversary: Diamond
Traditional theme: Diamond
Gemstone: Diamond
Symbolism: Eternal love, strength, and unbreakable bond
Jewelry gift ideas:
- Diamond necklace
- Diamond earrings (upgrade)
- Diamond eternity band
- Diamond bracelet
- Custom diamond jewelry
Why it's perfect: Sixty years together is a rare and precious achievement, worthy of diamonds.
Price range: $1,000-$50,000+
Modern Anniversary Gift Alternatives
Modern Anniversary Themes
In addition to traditional themes, modern anniversary gifts offer contemporary alternatives:
- 1st: Clocks (gold jewelry modern interpretation)
- 2nd: China
- 3rd: Crystal/Glass
- 4th: Appliances (blue topaz jewelry)
- 5th: Silverware (sapphire jewelry)
- 10th: Diamond jewelry
- 15th: Watches (ruby jewelry)
- 20th: Platinum (emerald jewelry)
- 25th: Silver
- 30th: Diamond (pearl jewelry)
- 40th: Ruby
- 50th: Gold
- 60th: Diamond
How to Choose the Perfect Anniversary Jewelry
Consider the Milestone
- Major milestones (10th, 25th, 50th) deserve more significant pieces
- Early years can be more modest but still meaningful
- Match the gift to the significance of the year
Know Their Style
- What jewelry do they currently wear?
- Do they prefer gold, silver, or platinum?
- Do they like bold or delicate pieces?
- What's their personal style (classic, modern, bohemian)?
Personalize When Possible
- Engrave with anniversary date
- Add both of your initials
- Include meaningful message
- Incorporate wedding date or special coordinates
Set a Budget
- Determine what you can comfortably spend
- Remember: thoughtfulness matters more than price
- Consider quality over size
- Plan ahead for major milestone years
Buy from Reputable Sources
- Choose established jewelers
- Verify gemstone quality and authenticity
- Check return and exchange policies
- Ensure proper certification for valuable pieces
Personalization Ideas
Engraving Options
- Anniversary date ("6.15.2016 - 6.15.2026")
- Number of years ("10 Years of Love")
- Initials or monogram
- Romantic message ("Forever Yours," "My Love, Always")
- Coordinates of wedding location
- Wedding vows excerpt
Custom Designs
- Incorporate both birthstones
- Design featuring wedding date
- Infinity symbols or hearts
- Intertwined initials
- Custom illustration or symbol meaningful to your relationship
Anniversary Jewelry by Budget
Under $200
- Simple gemstone pendant (garnet, amethyst, citrine)
- Sterling silver jewelry
- Small gemstone studs
- Delicate bracelet
$200-$1,000
- Gold necklace or bracelet
- Pearl jewelry
- Sapphire or topaz pieces
- Small diamond jewelry
$1,000-$5,000
- Diamond eternity band
- Ruby or emerald jewelry
- Diamond pendant or earrings
- High-quality pearl necklace
$5,000+
- Significant diamond jewelry
- Large gemstone pieces (ruby, emerald, sapphire)
- Custom-designed anniversary jewelry
- Luxury watches
- Platinum jewelry
Presentation Tips
Make It Special
- Plan romantic dinner or getaway
- Present at meaningful location (where you got engaged, married)
- Include heartfelt card or love letter
- Recreate your first date or wedding
Packaging
- Request elegant jewelry box
- Add romantic ribbon or wrapping
- Include anniversary card
- Present with flowers or champagne
Timing
- Give on your actual anniversary date
- Surprise them at breakfast or dinner
- Plan special reveal moment
- Create memorable experience
Caring for Anniversary Jewelry
Proper Maintenance
- Clean regularly with appropriate methods
- Store in jewelry box or pouch
- Remove before activities (swimming, exercising)
- Have professionally cleaned annually
Insurance and Appraisal
- Get valuable pieces appraised
- Add to homeowner's or renter's insurance
- Keep certificates and receipts
- Update appraisals every few years
Alternative Anniversary Gift Ideas
Upgrade Existing Jewelry
- Add diamonds to engagement ring
- Upgrade wedding band to eternity band
- Reset stones in new design
- Restore or refinish vintage pieces
Jewelry Experiences
- Design custom piece together
- Take jewelry-making class
- Visit jewelry museum or exhibition
- Tour gemstone mine or jewelry workshop
Heirloom Pieces
- Pass down family jewelry
- Restore vintage or antique piece
- Create new piece from heirloom stones
- Combine family stones in new design
Conclusion
Anniversary jewelry is a timeless way to celebrate your love and commitment, honoring both tradition and your unique relationship. Whether you choose a classic gemstone piece that follows traditional anniversary themes or a personalized design that reflects your journey together, the perfect anniversary gift will be treasured for years to come.
Key takeaways:
- Each anniversary year has traditional gemstone or material
- Major milestones (10th, 25th, 50th) feature precious gems
- Personalization adds extra meaning and sentiment
- Consider their style, preferences, and the significance of the year
- Options available for every budget
- Presentation and thoughtfulness matter most
- Anniversary jewelry becomes cherished heirloom
Celebrate your love story with jewelry that honors your past, celebrates your present, and promises a beautiful future together.
