Anniversary Gifts by Year: Traditional Gifts and Jewelry Ideas
Chic and Bling 3 min readChic and Bling · Gift guide
The traditional gift for every year, with jewelry ideas to match.
6 min read · Updated October 2026
Key takeaways
- Traditional anniversary gifts follow a list from paper to diamond.
- Silver marks year 25 and pearl marks year 30.
- A handwritten note makes any gift personal.
- You do not have to follow the list.
Anniversary gifts by year
| Year | Traditional gift | Idea |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Paper | A handwritten letter |
| 2nd | Cotton | A soft throw or scarf |
| 3rd | Leather | A leather journal |
| 5th | Wood | A wooden keepsake box |
| 10th | Tin or aluminium | A framed photo |
| 15th | Crystal | A crystal or zircon piece |
| 20th | China | A dinner for two |
| 25th | Silver | A silver ring or necklace |
| 30th | Pearl | A pearl necklace |
| 40th | Ruby | A ruby-red keepsake |
| 50th | Gold | A gold-tone piece and a toast |
| 60th | Diamond | A sparkling keepsake |
Jewelry ideas
For a silver anniversary
The Hug from Heaven Ring is made from 925 silver, and the Through Thick and Thin Rings are 925 silver too.
For a pearl anniversary
The Pearl Necklace for Mom suits a 30th anniversary. See our full guide to 30th anniversary gift ideas.
For any year
The Hugging Couple Necklace and the Name Engraved Rings for Couples work for any anniversary. More ideas in our couples gift ideas under $50.
Choosing the gift
Do
- Write a note about a favourite memory.
- Choose something they can wear every day.
- Check a ring size before you buy a ring.
- Use the list as inspiration, not a rule.
Avoid
- Guessing a ring size for a surprise.
- Skipping the card.
- Buying something you would not wear yourself.
- Leaving it to the last day.
Celebrate every year
Gift-ready jewelry for couples.
Shop couple jewelryCode 5PERCENTAGEOFF is applied automatically through this link.
Frequently asked questions
What is the gift for each wedding anniversary?
Traditional gifts follow a list: paper for the 1st, cotton for the 2nd, leather for the 3rd, wood for the 5th, silver for the 25th, pearl for the 30th, ruby for the 40th, gold for the 50th and diamond for the 60th.
What is the 30th anniversary gift?
Pearl. A pearl necklace is a classic choice.
What is the 25th anniversary gift?
Silver. A silver ring or necklace marks the silver anniversary.
Do I have to follow the traditional list?
No. Many couples choose a personal piece of jewelry, a photo gift or a handwritten letter instead.
What is a good anniversary gift if I do not know their taste?
A simple piece with a meaning, such as a hug ring or hug necklace, with a handwritten card.
