Timeless Anniversary Gifts for Her: A Guide to Celebrate Your Love
Whether you’ve been together for a year or for 60, an anniversary is a milestone worth celebrating. As you go through life’s journey, it’s an honor to have someone by your side to love and cherish. So when it comes to showing her how much you care, what sort of presents should you be looking for her? From a simple cookbook to treasured pearls, shopping for the right gift can be overwhelming. With so many options for anniversary gifts for her, we’ve put together this guide to help you find the perfect token of your love.
Read on to learn more about the traditions of anniversary gifts, ways to make them more modern, and a huge range of unique anniversary gifts for her.
A wedding anniversary is a yearly celebration to mark the day that you were wed. While this celebration may be just a private exchange of gifts or a nice meal out, it can also come with a party! It’s a chance to show your love and say thank you for all the care and memories that you’ve shared throughout the years.
Over time, wedding anniversary gifts have become slightly more standardized, with certain expectations for each milestone. And while husbands can receive gifts too, anniversary gifts for her have become an important cultural norm!
While most of the traditional gifting guidelines are for a wedding anniversary, it’s worth noting that you can celebrate the anniversary of becoming a couple, too! When it comes to modern relationships, it’s up to you how to interpret tradition.
You may be familiar with the tradition of assigning a specific gift—such as paper, pearls, or gold—to a specific anniversary year. As it turns out, the beginnings of this idea can be traced back to Ancient Rome or medival Germany, but it’s hard to find specific examples that far back from either. However, by the 1700s, this gift-giving culture is more documented in Germany. For their 25th anniversary—the silberne hochzeit—a couple’s friends may gift the wife a wreath made from silver. And on their 50th, that will be followed with one made from gold.
In English speaking regions, however, this tradition didn’t start to show up until the 1800s. And this timing was a reflection on changing attitudes to marriage! While marriages were traditionally seen as a social contract, by the late 19th century the love match was becoming ever more popular. And as a rejection of conservative norms, anniversary gifts were a way to celebrate the triumph of love.
FUN FACT: During the Victorian era, young people were encouraged by society to pursue their romantic attachments for marriage—a norm that has (thankfully!) been upheld since.
When it comes to choosing anniversary gifts for her, significant anniversaries have come to be associated with specific gifts. While there’s no strict rules, these time-honored traditions are a celebration of your time spent together.
And they don’t have to be gifted just within a relationship, either. Consider these as inspiration for gifts for parents or other important couples in your life, too!
Here are the traditional anniversary gifts for each milestone, plus their modern equivalent.
The general trend of traditional anniversary gifts is that they slowly increase in value over time, representing the success of your marriage. This is also seen in the modern anniversary gift guide, too, but where do these come from?
These “new” rules were published by the American National Retail Jewelers Association in 1937. This updated list was intended to modernize the options, and make it easier for couples to choose more contemporary gifts. It’s worth noting, though, that many now see this updated list as outdated itself. As a result, many couples are creating their own interpretations off the Victorian-era list!
So now you know the guidelines for choosing an anniversary gift, it’s time to find the perfect one for your partner. While it’s always the thought that counts, putting in a little extra care and intention will make her feel truly special.
Before you start shopping, here are some general principles to keep you on the right track.
Even if your partner has incredibly specific taste, you should still know better than most people what she likes! For example, if she usually rocks the boho style, then don’t opt for jewelry or clothing that is too minimalistic or modern. Take some time to consider what she usually buys for herself. Or, if in doubt, ask her close friends or family for style guidance.
While the anniversary gifts guidelines are a great place to start in choosing a present for her, they are not a rule! Sometimes the best gifts are the most creative, so don’t be afraid to break the mold. Consider an experience, like tickets to a concert or a trip, or something sentimental, like a framed note from when you first started dating. It’s about choosing a gift that is representative of your love, so online gift guides are only a starting point.
And if you’re really struggling to choose the perfect gift (hey, it happens!), then don’t be afraid to take it back to basics. A nice meal and a simple piece of jewelry will never go out of style. And for more specific ideas, read on for gift inspiration for your first decade of being married.
When it comes to timeless, classic anniversary gifts, you can’t beat the simple charm of pearl jewelry.
From pearl studs to delicate station necklaces, these feminine pieces will elevate any look. Browse our full collection of premium pearls, and find her a gift she’s guaranteed to love!
Congratulations, you’re married! Whether it’s your first anniversary or your tenth, the first decade of marriage is worth celebrating. You’ve come together to build a life, and you have a whole lifetime ahead of you. Here are some ways to thank her for her love and devotion.
| Traditional Gift | Paper |
| Modern Gift | Clocks |
For a sentimental first anniversary gift for her, you can’t beat this customized wall decor. With a heart map showing where you met, where you got engaged, where you married, and where you live, it’s a celebration of what got you here.
A clock celebrates the value of time together, so she’ll love this chic Yamazaki Wall Clock. It’s a stylish addition to your home—and may even stop you bickering about being late!
| Traditional Gift | Cotton |
| Modern Gift | China |
There’s nothing like a chic cotton button down to complete a stylish wardrobe, and this one from AYR is a timeless choice. Perfect to wear to the office or with denim shorts on a trip, it’s a staple piece that she’ll love.
While a set of fine china is always gorgeous, a more modern take on this gifting tradition is a stylish vase. This floral vase from Wedgwood combines classic charm with modern versatility. Bonus: pre-fill it with her favorite flowers!
| Traditional Gift | Leather |
| Modern Gift | Crystal/Glass |
| Gemstone | Pearl |
A stylish handbag will be her new everyday favorite, and you can’t beat the Coach Swing Zip for a fun, versatile gift. Opt for a playful pop of red, or stick to classic black if that’s more her style.
For a playful gift that will look gorgeous in your kitchen, these colorful glass coupe glasses from Polspotten are a real statement. Invite friends over for an anniversary toast, or crack a bottle of champagne on your own to celebrate the occasion!
Gift her the beauty of pearls with a unique charm with this White South Sea Baroque Pearl Necklace. Elegant yet interesting, it is a surprisingly versatile piece that can be worn to a gala or with elegant resortwear. It’s a gorgeous way to celebrate her uniqueness!
Looking for the timeless charm of pearl jewelry, but find your on a budget? You can’t go past the allure and value of Freshwater Pearls.
Ranging from classic round, white freshwater pearls, to mulitcolor baroque pieces, there’s a freshwater piece for everyone. Explore our Freshwater Pearl Necklaces, Earrings and Bracelets, and kick start her pearl collection in style.
| Traditional Gift | Fruit/Flowers |
| Modern Gift | Appliances |
While gifting her groceries for your anniversary may seem like not enough, she’ll undoubtedly love this Deluxe Fruit Basket from Harry & David. Why not make a picnic date out of it?
While domestic appliances may be a gifting faux pas most of the time, the fourth anniversary is an exception. And when she opens this cult fave stand mixer from KitchenAid, you’ll be sure to earn those brownie points. And brownies!
| Traditional Gift | Wood |
| Modern Gift | Silverware |
There’s nothing quite like having elevated home basics, and this handmade burl wood box is no exception. Perfect for storing jewelry, love notes, or sweet mementos, it will become a box of memories for years to come.
Okay, while the set may not be entirely made of silver, you can’t deny the chic style of this Sabre flatware set. Plus, you can mix and match colors over the years to build up a complete, customized collection.
| Traditional Gift | Iron |
| Modern Gift | Wood |
You may not think much about the pots and pans in your kitchen, but a Le Creuset Dutch Oven is a staple for a reason. It will bring you years of happy meals together, plus it brings cozy vibes to your kitchen, all year round!
If you’re a home that loves to play games together, gift her this elevated wooden scrabble board for your anniversary. It works as rustic home decor, and will invite countless hours of quality time together.
| Traditional Gift | Copper/Wool |
| Modern Gift | Desk Sets |
Once you’ve experienced a high quality wool knit, it’s hard to go back to one off the rack. That is to say, she’ll feel spoiled and cozy in this timeless wool sweater from Babaa.
While a full desk set sounds luxurious, the reality is that most people prefer to work on the go from cafes or coworking spaces. Instead, this Tippy Type keyboard cover is specifically designed for those with long nails. It makes it easy to type, plus can be easily transported!
| Traditional Gift | Bronze |
| Modern Gift | Linen/Lace |
At a touch of rustic bronze style to your home decor with this statement vase from Joss & Main. With an earthy vibe, it will elevate any entryway or living room.
Elevate your hosting game—or date nights at home!—with a luxurious French linen tablecloth. And they best part? They only get better the more they’re washed.
| Traditional Gift | Pottery |
| Modern Gift | Leather |
You’ve already got plates, but do you have a full set of handmade potter dinnerware? She will love this chic pottery set, and it’s the perfect way to elevate your daily life.
This stylish black bag from Polène comes with two seperate straps, so she can swap between a shoulder and a cross-body bag. This makes it the ultimate versatile gift, and perfect for any romantic trips you have planned!
| Traditional Gift | Aluminum/Tin |
| Modern Gift | Diamond Jewelry |
The pliability of aluminum is a symbol of how a successful marriage needs to be flexible. And as a gift, you can’t go wrong with luxurious candles for around your home. These Voluspa candles come in a tin, making them perfect for your anniversary celebration.
Whether or not her engagement ring features a diamond, 10 years in is a great reason to treat her! This Akoya Pearl & Diamond Willow Ring from The Pearl Source is both sentimental and wearable, making it the perfect addition for any stylish look. Plus, you can choose the precious metal and the tone of the pearl, for the ultimate customized look!
If you’re looking for a truly custom anniversary gift, you can’t beat personalized jewelry from The Pearl Source. Choose your favorite style, select the perfect colored gems, and customize the clasp. Plus, you can even add your loved one’s initials to make it one-of-a-kind!
Browse our collection of pearl necklaces and bracelets, and find the perfect customized gift!
The honeymoon period may be well and truly over, but your love is going strong! The longer you’ve been together, the larger the milestone becomes, so take some time to find the perfect anniversary gift for her.
| Traditional Gift | Crystal |
| Modern Gift | Watches |
Remember, it’s okay to get creative when interpreting the gifting guidelines, which is why this Versace Bright Crystal perfume is perfect for your 15th anniversary. There’s nothing more luxe than a well-stocked fragrance collection, after all!
A quality timepiece is a staple in anyone’s wardrobe, which is why this Tissot Classic is a timeless 15th anniversary gift for her. Plus, this gorgeous gold and silver combo will go with anything in her jewelry collection!
FUN FACT: Traditionally, women wear a watch on their left wrist. These days, however, it’s down to personal preference!
| Traditional Gift | China |
| Modern Gift | Platinum |
Okay, it may not be fine china, but let’s be honest: you’ll probably get more use out of handmade chip and dip bowl anyway. It’s the perfect excuse for an anniversary date night, or just a movie at home!
Commemorate your first dance song, the album that you listened to on your first date, or any other music that’s special to you with this platinum LP record wall art.
| Traditional Gift | Silver |
| Modern Gift | Silver |
For your silver anniversary, treat her to something special. This White Baroque Lenny Pearl Chain Necklace from the Pearl Source is a cool statement piece that she’ll be able to wear from day to night. Layer it with a delicate chain, or complete the look with bold silver earrings!
FUN FACT: In the Middle Ages, husbands would commemorate their 25th anniversary by gifting their wives silver wreaths for their hair. This is where the “Silver Anniversary” came from!
| Traditional Gift | Pearl |
| Modern Gift | Diamond |
For your 30th anniversary celebration, there’s nothing quite as timeless as a classic, round Akoya pearl necklace. A symbol of grace and timelessness, it’s a piece that she can wear every day, and age with style.
Diamond studs earrings are a classic addition to any jewelry wardrobe, and she will love this modern take for your 30th anniversary. A true keepsake, these Akoya Pearl & Diamond Tessie Earrings are a modern heirloom.
For the ultimate anniversary gift celebrating a lifetime of love, treat her to the very best: our Ultimate Pearl Jewelry Collection. This luxurious collection features ultra-lustrous Hanadama gems, entrancing Tahitian pearls and statement South Sea pearl necklaces.
Discover our most exquisite pearls, in styles she’ll treasure forever.
| Traditional Gift | Coral |
| Modern Gift | Jade |
For your coral anniversary, embrace the natural beauty of natural reefs. This coral-inspired resin sculpture will be a stunning addition to your home, and a reminder of your enduring love.
A tea ceremony is a chance to take time out of your busy day to reconnect and recharge, and this Jade Tea Set will encourage a moment of stillness.
| Traditional Gift | Ruby |
| Modern Gift | Ruby |
Embrace the “pop of red” theory for interior decorating, and add a touch of ruby to your home. These playful lampshades from Alice Palmer & Co. can be customized to suit your home, and collected over the years.
| Traditional Gift | Sapphire |
| Modern Gift | Sapphire |
For your 45th anniversary, give her a handmade piece that can be displayed with pride. This Thumbrint Bowl from Elsa Peretti exudes a rich sapphire-like quality, and will be pride of place in your love-filled home.
| Traditional Gift | Gold |
| Modern Gift | Gold |
50 years of marriage is an incredibly accomplishment to reach together! Show her how brilliant she is in your eyes with a gleaming gold pearl, set in lustrous gold. The Golden South Sea Pearl & Diamond Sia Ring will adorn her hand, and you will hold it into these magical years of life.
FUN FACT: In Commonwealth countries, citizens are eligible to receive a personalized anniversary greeting from the Prime Minister or Governor General after their 50th anniversary, or from the reigning monarch on their 60th, 65th and 70th wedding anniversary then every year thereafter.
| Traditional Gift | Emerald |
| Modern Gift | Emerald |
Celebrate where you came from and the future generations of your family with this personalized family tree. Each beloved family member is represented by a green-bead, which catches the light just like a real leaf.
| Traditional Gift | Diamond |
| Modern Gift | Diamond |
Your 60th anniversary is named the “diamond” for a reason: it is the sparkling gem in the list of your life’s accomplishments. And to celebrate 60 years married, she deserves the very best. This South Sea Pearl & Diamond Bella Ring combines premium pearls, twinkling diamonds, and 18k gold. It’s a piece to treasure forever, just like her.
While a heartfelt gift will always be received with love, so is the act of giving it. Once you’ve found the right anniversary present, here’s how to give it to her to make her feel extra special.
Even if she has an inkling that she may receive *something*, you can’t beat the joy of blowing those expectations out of the water. Whether it’s amazing her with an anniversary gift over coffee, or finally getting her a piece that’s been on her wishlist for years, the element of surprise is your best friend.
Your love isn’t run-of-the-mill, so make sure your anniversary gift isn’t, either!
Even the most modest anniversary gifts deserve to be wrapped up intentionally. That means ditching the bag it came in, removing the price sticker, or finding the perfect gift bag! Opening a gift is half the fun, so embrace the joy for your anniversary.
Of course, the perfectly wrapped gift must come with a card. And instead of a generic platitude, why not use your anniversary to say the things that maybe don’t get a mention in the day-to-day? Consider what you’re grateful for in your marriage, what your excited for in the future, or simply what you love about her. It will make that sentimental gift all the more special!
A good anniversary gift is one that feels personal, thoughtful, and ideally appropriate for how many years you’ve been married. Check out our list of suggestions above for both traditional and modern anniversary gift ideas.
While you don’t need an anniversary gift for parents every year, it is a nice thing to consider for the milestone years. After all, your parents’ wedding anniversary is an important family milestone!
While anniversary gifts were traditionally given by husbands to their wives, these days many couples give gifts to each other. When it comes down to it, it’s simply a matter of personal preference and relationship dynamics.
When looking for anniversary gifts for her, it’s all about showing her how much you care. From a simple token to an heirloom piece of jewelry, your anniversary is the time to celebrate your love and the life you’ve built together. Charm her with these anniversary gift ideas, and congratulations on many happy years together!
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Content Writer and Editor at The Pearl Source
Kate Muirhead is the editor and content writer for leading pearl retailer The Pearl Source. She believes in the power of signature jewelry, and that collecting it is half the fun.
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