Best Anniversary Gifts by Year: Timeless Jewellery to Celebrate Every Milestone

Your Anniversary is more than just a date on the calendar. Each anniversary is a milestone celebrating each big step you both took which built everything you have together. The memories, the challenges you’ve overcome, and the long-term commitment to each other are all tied to each anniversary date. Whether that is the anniversary of the first day you met, got engaged or your wedding day each one is special and a day to celebrate. Choosing the right anniversary gift shouldn’t feel like a last-minute scramble. Each milestone has its own symbolism, and when you pair that meaning with a thoughtful piece of jewellery, the moment becomes even more special with a gift they can wear everyday.

This guide takes you through each major milestone step by step, explaining what each one represents and offering elegant gift ideas suited to the occasion. You’ll also find hand-picked jewellery suggestions from Shining Diamonds, including diamond rings, pendants, earrings and bracelets that make meaningful and lasting anniversary gifts.

If you’re looking for inspiration that goes beyond flowers and cards, and you want a gift that feels personal, timeless and full of sentiment, this in-depth anniversary guide will help you find something unforgettable.

Why Do People Buy Anniversary Gifts? What That Means for Couples 

Anniversary gifts have been exchanged for centuries, and although traditions have evolved, the meaning behind them remains the same. They’re a way for couples to honour their journey together. Giving a gift isn’t just about the item itself; it’s about recognising the time, effort and love invested into the relationship. For many couples, these gifts act as milestones. They reflect how a relationship has strengthened, overcome challenges and deepened with each passing year. An Anniversary jewellery gift isn’t simply tradition; it’s a heartfelt way to say, “we’ve made it this far and here’s to many more years ahead” wearing something that reminds you of us everyday.

5th Anniversary – Wood / Silverware / Sapphire

The 5th year together is often associated with wood (traditional) or silver­ware (modern). The symbolism is rich; wood denotes strength and growth, meaning that a relationship that has taken root and now stands firm; silver or silverware suggests maturity and elegance.

Gift ideas for him or her:

• A beautifully crafted wooden keepsake box, perhaps engraved with your names and anniversary date.
  
  

• A silver photo frame containing a cherished image of the two of you.
  
  

• A sapphire jewellery piece: the deep blue gemstone symbolises wisdom, loyalty and integrity.
  
  

• From Shining Diamonds: consider a sapphire and diamond pendant or ring. Our anniversary page shows how jewellery can elevate a gift-giving experience.
  
  

Why jewellery works:
The 5th year of your relationship is the first big milestone. A fine piece of jewellery can mark that achievement and serve as a wearable reminder. Choose a setting and style that matches your partner’s taste. 

6th Anniversary – Iron / Sweets

The 6th anniversary often carries the theme of iron (traditional) or sweets (fun, sweet). Iron symbolises durability; the relationship is now enduring; sweets suggest joy and light-heartedness.

Gift ideas:

• An iron sculpture or decorative piece for the home, which is something that stands out.
  
  

• A luxurious box of artisan sweets or chocolates, paired with a romantic dinner.
  
  

• Why not go for a diamond accent ring or a small diamond pendant? It shows you value the milestone. You’ll find our diamond rings can be adapted to your liking. Simply choose a design with an iron / steel-coloured metal (white gold or platinum) for symbolic significance.
  
  

Tip: Personalise your jewellery by adding some engraving, maybe both initials and date, so the piece becomes uniquely yours. If you choose candy or sweet gifts, you could pair them with a handwritten note referencing a fun memory from your 6th year together.

 

7th Anniversary – Wool / Copper

The 7th year of your anniversary uses wool (traditional) or copper (modern) as its motif. Wool evokes feelings of warmth and comfort, symbolising a relationship settled into tenderness. Copper suggests conductivity and connection, two lives linked and responsive to one another.

Gift ideas:

• A luxury wool throw or cashmere scarf for cosy evenings together.
  
  

• Copper cookware or decorative copper items are both practical and symbolic.
  
  

• A copper-toned piece of jewellery is less common, but you might choose rose-gold (which has a copper component) for a subtle nod. A diamond ring in rose gold from Shining Diamonds would be ideal. Consider a layered gift: a wool item first, then a piece of jewellery to deepen the significance.
  
  

Choosing a gift that emphasises comfort, warmth and connection speaks to the deeper bond you share.

8th Anniversary – Bronze / Pottery

The 8th anniversary is represented by bronze (traditional) or pottery (modern). Bronze is an alloy: strong because it combines metals. Pottery is shaped, refined and glazed, which represents refinement of the relationship.

Gift ideas:

• A piece of bronze décor or something crafted and enduring.
  
  

• Handmade pottery – perhaps a bespoke piece by a local artisan.
  
  

• Jewellery: Opt for a piece that blends metal tones – rose gold and yellow gold, for example. Many diamond rings allow this flexibility. Shining Diamonds offers rings in different metal options (platinum, 18k white/ yellow/rose gold), which you can tailor to your preferences.
  
  

• As a bonus idea, you could do a pottery-making class for you both. This experience then becomes the gift. You can mark it with something tangible (jewellery) afterwards.
  
  

You could pair the experiential gift (the pottery class) with an item to last. The ring or pendant you choose will then hold the memory of that fun shared moment.

9th Anniversary – Pottery / Willow

The 9th year often uses pottery again (traditional) or willow (modern). Willow symbolises flexibility, resilience and growth, much like the tree that bends but does not break.

Gift ideas:

• A handcrafted willow basket or decorative willow item.
  
  

• A pottery piece referencing your shared space - a vase, bowl, or artwork are nice ideas.
  
  

• Jewellery: A diamond twist ring, or an infinity design, suggests continuity and resilience.
  
  

• Consider including a personal element: perhaps the inside of the ring engraved “9 years strong”.

As you are both approaching a decade together, your gift should reflect the strength, flexibility and adaptability your partnership has shown.

10th Anniversary – Tin / Aluminium (Traditional) & Diamond (Modern)

The 10th anniversary marks a full decade of commitment. Traditional materials include tin or aluminium, which may sound modest but symbolise malleability and strength. The modern material is diamond, representing brilliance, strength and longevity.

Gift ideas:

• Tin or aluminium decorative or functional homeware - something clever and lasting.
  
  

• Or, going with the modern motif: a diamond jewellery piece. This is where a specialist jeweller like Shining Diamonds becomes a perfect choice. Our anniversary jewellery collection highlights how diamond jewellery is ideal for this milestone.
  
  

• Choose something a little more significant than past years, maybe a diamond pendant or a diamond ring upgrade.
  
  

Jewellery focus:
Since diamond is the modern theme, consider:

• A diamond eternity ring (symbolising ongoing commitment).
  
  

• A diamond pendant or drop earrings to mark the occasion.
  
  

• Choosing a slightly bigger carat weight or higher clarity/colour this time to mark the decade milestone.
  
  

Historical note: Reaching ten years is a significant achievement. The switch from utilitarian materials (tin/aluminium) to diamond signifies that you’re entering a new relationship phase, and your gift should reflect it.

11th to 14th Anniversary – Custom/Modern Interpretations

While the traditional lists become less rigid after the 10th year, many couples still like to mark the 11th through to the 14th anniversaries with meaningful gifts.

• 11th Anniversary: Traditionally steel; modern: fashion jewellery. Steel suggests durability. A jewellery piece in white gold or platinum, perhaps with a diamond cluster, works beautifully.
  
  

• 12th Anniversary: Traditionally, silk or linen; modern: pearls. A diamond and pearl necklace harmonises elegance and diamond sparkle.
  
  

• 13th Anniversary: Often lace (traditional) or textiles (modern). A lace-patterned jewellery setting or textile gift paired with a diamond bracelet can make sense.
  
  

• 14th Anniversary: Traditionally, ivory (no longer used due to ethical concerns), so it can be substituted for elephant-themed gifts.
  
  

Tip: If the traditional material is less practical (ivory, silk with a short lifespan), pivot to the modern alternative or focus purely on the sentiment and quality of the jewellery.

15th Anniversary – Crystal / Glass

The 15th anniversary traditionally uses crystal or glass. The idea is that your love for one another has become transparent, open and sparkling. The modern gift is also crystal-like – jewellery or designer glass.

Gift ideas:

• A fine crystal vase or glass sculpture; you could get it personalised to convey a more thoughtful gift.
  
  

• Jewellery: A diamond piece that has a clean, clear aesthetic (white diamonds, platinum, minimal setting) to evoke crystal clarity. Shining Diamonds’ designs in platinum with brilliant white diamonds fit this theme perfectly.
  
  

• You might also choose a diamond pendant with a large central stone to reflect the idea of clarity, transparency and brilliance.
  
  

Why this matters: Reaching fifteen years together showcases a mature relationship built on trust and transparency. The gift should feel polished, refined - the jewellery should reflect that.

 

20th Anniversary – China (Traditional) / Platinum (Modern)

The milestone of twenty years is a major marker. Traditional gifts include china, which symbolises the beauty and enduring nature of a long marriage. The modern alternative is platinum jewellery. Metal of the highest calibre, enduring and precious.

Gift ideas:

• A fine china set, or a single decorative china piece, personalised with names or a date.
  
  

• Jewellery: A platinum diamond ring, necklace or bracelet. At Shining Diamonds, you can select platinum as a metal for diamond rings and pendants.
  
  

• Consider an upgrade: maybe a larger diamond, or a full diamond-set ring to mark the two-decade milestone.
  
  

The focus here is on durability, premium quality and longevity. Your gift should reflect two decades of shared life.

 

25th Anniversary – Silver / Silver Jubilee / Silver Anniversary

Twenty-five years is often called the “silver anniversary”. It emphasises the strength, reflectiveness and value of a silver milestone.

Gift ideas:

• Silver-plated keepsake, or a silver photo album with pictures from the past 25 years.
  
  

• While silver metal is one route, many modern couples treat this milestone with a diamond piece (often white gold or platinum). From Shining Diamonds, you might select a diamond ring with a silver or white-metal appearance or a full diamond bracelet.
  
  

• Consider engraving a special message inside the jewellery item to mark 25 years of togetherness.
  
  

At 25 years, a diamond or silver jewellery piece becomes an heirloom, it’s something that can be passed on or worn daily as a celebration of your enduring bond.

30th Anniversary – Pearl (Traditional) / Diamond (Modern)

Thirty years brings us to pearl (traditional) or diamond (modern). Pearls represent wisdom acquired, beauty from within, and longevity of commitment. Diamonds once again symbolise brilliance and enduring love.

Gift ideas:

• A pearl and diamond necklace, or a pair of elegant pearl earrings accented with diamonds.
  
  

• A diamond piece from Shining Diamonds. Perhaps a diamond halo ring or a multi-stone diamond bracelet. 

• Combine both - a pearl pendant with a diamond set; this bridges the traditional and modern.

Tip: For such a major milestone, ensure the gift has gravitas (reflects seriousness) in both the design and the cost. Make the piece count.

 

40th Anniversary – Ruby (Traditional) / Ruby (Modern)

Forty years together is a beautiful milestone to reach. Traditional and modern material is ruby. Ruby’s deep red colour symbolises passion, vitality and endurance through decades.

Gift ideas:

• A ruby jewellery piece – ruby pendant, ruby and diamond ring or ruby earrings.
  
  

• From Shining Diamonds, you might enquire about ruby and diamond combinations or bespoke design services.
  
  

• Alternatively, pair ruby with diamond. A ring with a ruby centre and diamond accents gives brilliance and the ruby’s rich hue.
  
  

Why this milestone demands something bold: Reaching forty years means you’ve spent the better part of your lives together. The gift should reflect not just endurance but an active, vibrant relationship. Ruby is perfect for that.

 

50th Anniversary – Gold (Traditional) / Gold (Modern)

Half a century together… the golden anniversary!  Gold is enduring, valuable, luminous. It is the supreme material for marking 50 years of love.

Gift ideas:

• A gold jewellery piece: a solid yellow gold ring, a gold bracelet, and a gold pendant with a diamond accent.
  
  

• We offer jewellery options in different metals, including yellow gold.
  
  

• Consider upgrading: a diamond ring with a substantial gold setting, maybe incorporating anniversary engraving, or even a bespoke creation.
  
  

Making it memorable: At fifty years, the gift really should reflect exceptional quality. Consider a jewellery piece with provenance - maybe an inscription of 50 years together, a custom design, or an upgrade of an earlier piece.

 

60th Anniversary and Beyond – Diamond (Traditional)

While not always listed in every gift list, the 60th anniversary often uses diamond as its symbol; the ultimate material of love, clarity and endurance.

Gift ideas:

• A diamond anniversary ring – perhaps matching or complementing the original wedding ring.
  
  

• A diamond earring set or a diamond pendant. Shining Diamonds’ anniversary ring collection has a good range of options to choose from.
  
  

• Consider a family-centred gift: perhaps passing a diamond piece to the next generation, or having a piece engraved with grandchildren’s names.
  
  

Sixty years together is extraordinary. The gift should reflect that rarity. A diamond piece of jewellery is not just a token, but a symbol of lifetime achievement in love.

 

Why Choose Jewellery from Shining Diamonds?

When selecting a significant anniversary gift, choosing a reputable jeweller is key. 

Here’s why Shining Diamonds stands out:

1. Expertise and selection – Our website clearly shows a broad selection of diamond rings with filters by metal, carat weight, shape and more.

2. Modern and bespoke options – We offer ready to wear items and a bespoke design service, meaning that you can tailor a piece to the milestone year. 

3. Quality guarantee & support – We have multiple benefits: price match guarantee, 30-day risk-free returns, and 12 months warranty.
   
   

4. Physical stores & consultation -  As you’re investing in a milestone gift, having the option to see pieces in store (London, Brighton, Birmingham, etc) or speak with the professionals adds confidence.
   
   

Therefore, if you’re planning a jewellery gift for your anniversary, partnering with Shining Diamonds makes sense for quality, flexibility and peace of mind.

How to Choose the Right Piece (Jewellery-Buying Tips)

When selecting jewellery for an anniversary, especially one tied to a milestone year and theme, these are key considerations:

Know your partner’s style

Does your partner favour minimalist or elaborate designs? Do they wear yellow gold, white gold, rose gold or platinum? 

Consider metal and gemstone symbolism

As we’ve seen, certain materials align with specific anniversary years. If the milestone suggests platinum, rose gold, yellow gold, or incorporates specific gemstones (ruby, sapphire, pearl), tailor accordingly.

Balance the budget with significance

Jewellery doesn’t have to break the bank, but for a major milestone (10th, 25th, 50th, 60th), it’s worth investing in something of higher quality. Diamond clarity, carat weight and metal choice make a difference. Use the filters at Shining Diamonds to compare. 

Think about personalisation

An engraving inside the ring, a meaningful date, initials, or even a short quote can elevate the piece from ‘gift’ to ‘keepsake’. Consider matching the anniversary year with the engraving: “10 years”, “25 years”, etc.

Delivery & timing

Anniversaries often coincide with special dinners or trips. Check shipping or ready to wear options. Shining Diamonds offers ready-to-ship items and bespoke service. 

Care & longevity

Diamond jewellery is durable but still requires care, cleaning, proper storage, and periodic inspection. Encourage your partner to view the piece as a long-term investment, not just a one-time purchase.

 

Contact Shining Diamonds Today and Find Your Perfect Milestone Gift 

Ready to mark your special milestone? Explore the stunning anniversary collection from Shining Diamonds today. Visit the anniversary gift section at Shining Diamonds Anniversary Gifts and book a consultation or browsing session. Make this anniversary one to remember with jewellery that reflects the depth of your journey together.

 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

I’m at a milestone beyond 60 years. What material should I choose?
Many modern guides treat diamond as the best choice for couples who are beyond 60 years, due to its symbolism of endurance and brilliance. You can also focus on the quality of design and personalisation rather than simply following traditional lists.

My partner doesn’t wear rings. What jewellery alternative should I pick?
Consider earrings, pendants or bracelets instead. At Shining Diamonds, you can explore diamond earrings, pendants and bracelets across our site. Choose a piece that suits their everyday style, whether it be subtle, well-crafted, or comfortable.

What if our colours or metal preferences differ (one prefers white gold, the other yellow)?
Many jewellery pieces allow mixed metals or interchangeable styles. You might choose a ring in white gold for your partner, but complement it with a yellow gold chain for yourself. The key is coherence in design rather than matching exactly. Shining Diamonds’ metal filter helps you find the right choice. 

Is it too late to still mark earlier milestone years (for example, 8th or 9th)?
Absolutely not. You can treat the upcoming anniversary as the milestone, and still reflect earlier years by choosing material themes (bronze, willow, etc) or simply acknowledge that you both missed it, but you can celebrate now. The sentiment is what matters.

How much should I spend on an anniversary jewellery gift?
There’s no hard rule. Some suggest spending a month’s salary, whilst others look for more affordable options. What truly matters is the sentiment itself, but what really matters is that the gift reflects thought, meaning and your partner’s taste. For major milestones (25th, 50th), you might choose to invest more; for smaller years, you can be thoughtful without overextending financially.