To help you better
celebrate your much anticipated anniversary festivities, below is a detailed
list of the most common traditional and modern anniversary celebration themes
according to their year.
Technically, only the
25th and 50th anniversaries are celebrated in public, and customarily
anniversaries are observed according to their traditional themes. With modern
times however, some traditions have expended, and nowadays-modern themes can
also be found.
Anniversary stones
are dominant in most milestones dates, which are the five-year marks. And since
there are no official traditional or modern themes for the sixteenth to
nineteenth and for the twenty-first to twenty-fourth anniversaries, they should
be celebrated according to the anniversary stone.
After the 25th year
of marriage, official anniversary themes are only celebrated every fifth year.
After the 55th anniversary, they are celebrated every tenth year up to the
seventieth year.
Scroll down the
list to find your wedding anniversary year or click on the corresponding number
below.
Which
anniversary would you like to learn about?
1; 2; 3; 4;
5; 6; 7; 8;
9; 10; 11; 12;
13; 14; 15; 16;
17; 18; 19; 20;
21; 22; 23; 24;
25; 30; 35; 40;
45; 50; 55; 60;
70; 75
Anniversary Stone: Gold jewelry
Congratulations! You are no longer considered newlyweds. But it's too early to
mark this event with a stone -- So go for gold. Symbolize higher goals and
dreams by a heart bangle with special engraving. Remember gold is the yang, the
sun, good luck, and happiness.
Traditional Theme: Paper
Yes, you've made it past these twelve months but
you're still considered a lightweight, and anything can happen. So paper is the
theme, a fragile material that needs care but is very romantic; think of
poetry, album photos, etc. Make a book with all the love letters written to one
another. Think of the environment and print them on recycled paper. This way
your love will never go to waste.
Modern Themes: Plastics and Clocks
Definitely not as romantic as paper, but plastic -- let's face it -- makes our lives a lot easier. Why not a pair of tainted
sunglasses to see the world in pink? Or a watch, his has the hour hand and hers
the minute hand, this way when you're not together, time stands still.
Anniversary Stone: Garnet
Egyptian Goddess Isis adored garnets. They symbolize faith, truth and
friendship.
Traditional Theme: Cotton
May be you're like Penelope who kept weaving her tapestry during the day and
unweaving it at night to fight off suitors while waiting the return of her
beloved Ulysses. Think of old world bed linens, tapestries, sarongs and the embroided hankie, which can be a powerful and romantic tool
as a gift of comfort.
Modern Themes: Cotton / Calico /
The Fabric of Our Lives-- If your loved-one prefers cotton to silk and satin,
go for some eyelet English embroided lingerie. Also,
cotton is the only fabric tolerated by a baby's skin. Or may be you'll go on a
trip to the
Anniversary Stone: Pearl
A symbol of purity, Aphrodite, Goddess of Love,
considered the pearl to be sacred. A wonderful treasure of the sea, the pearl
comes to life embedded in the finest oysters. Throughout the ages, pearl divers
who could dive up to 72 feet were the subject of many stories and legends.
Traditional Theme: Leather
Dare we think it? Perhaps another time, for now let's focus on the nobility of
the material. How about a western or old-fashioned prairie
feel to your celebration? Just round-up close friends and family
members, and wine and dine to your heart's content. Or you could just run out,
get a couple of travel bags, grab your Stetson Man, and head off to the wild, wild west, just the two of you.
Modern Themes: Leather /
Anniversary Stone: Blue Topaz
A tease, a prelude to next year's big gem, Blue Topaz is available in hues from
cool sky blue to deep Swiss blue. This sparkling gemstone symbolizes strength
and intelligence.
Traditional Theme: Flowers
Sometimes, once in a while, tradition doesn't live up to the circumstance. To
spice things up -- after all you've been at this for four years now -- think of
Blue Topaz flower jewels, or set the stage in a beautiful garden; if you don't
have your own, try your local winter garden or throw a flower ball in her
honor, and choose the flower of your wedding month, or yours and her home-state
or homeland.
Modern Themes: Linen / Silk / Nylon /
Appliances
Definitely, this anniversary's themes aren't great! Appliances? Take our word for it; do not come home with an
appliance. Anything battery operated should be banned from your gift list,
although your man might enjoy the latest gadget. The only worthy item on this
list is silk. Grab yourselves a pair of his and hers silk jamies and only wear them when you must; i.e.:
company's coming, trip to the folks, the kids are up, etc.
Anniversary Stone: Sapphire
Finally something to write home about! The most
popular precious stone, Sapphire is a symbol of faith and goodness. Truly
revered, the deep celestial blue hue of this gem is an all time favorite.
Traditional Theme: Wood
The Fifth Anniversary is a very special one. It marks a turn in your marriage
years. Statistics show that you are entering a danger zone because most
divorces happen in the 5-7 years bracket. Is it boredom, routine, life taking
its toll? No one knows but you must make an effort to make this anniversary
extra special. After all you've made it this far, which is already an
accomplishment according to the same statistics.
Modern Themes: Wood / Silverware
Wood and silverware go hand in hand with Sapphire. Think of a beautiful,
isolated cabin in the woods, a warm and cozy fireplace, and silver candelabras
on the table for a tÕte-Ë-tÕte feast where you'll
reveal her Sapphire gift. If you're more the
Anniversary Stone: Amethyst
Amethysts have been coveted by royalty throughout the ages as symbols of
wisdom, strength and confidence. They are members of the quartz family known to
hold mysterious powers, and ward off evil. Remember you're still in the danger
zone; this could come in handy.
Traditional Theme: Candy / Iron
There's something truly exciting about candy. Is it because it's the first gift
a little girl gets from a little boy? Is it the lure of danger (your mother
always told you not to talk to strangers even if they gave you candy)? Or is it
just a hormonal chain reaction? Sweet nothings go a long way. Plan an Amethyst
in a bowl of purple Island Punch flavored jellybeans, and she'll melt.
Modern Themes: Iron / Wood
You have to strike while the iron is hot. And since
both iron and wood are used for carving, your goal on this anniversary is to
carve your love for one another into anything you can think of. The most
committed will get tattoos; the weak-at-heart will get nameplate jewelry.
Anniversary Stone: Onyx
Legend has it that one day Cupid cut the divine fingernails of Venus with an
arrowhead while she was sleeping. He left the clippings scattered around on the
sand, and the fates (the three Goddesses, Clotho, Lachesis and Antropos, who
control human destiny) turned them into Onyx so that no part of the heavenly
body would ever perish.
Traditional Theme: Copper / Wool
Copper is known for its healing virtues, and since you've made it through the
danger zone, it is only fair that you need a little healing. Copper makes a
wonderful color for a themed party, with a wide range of hues available. As for
wool, think of a warm blanket that you can both cuddle under, or Shetland
sweaters that you can take to the
Modern Themes: Copper / Wool / Brass /
Desk Sets
Desk sets are a thing of the past, and letter openers are too dangerous and can
be used against you. As for brass, gold is much better. As in
gold jewelry, heart of gold, pot of gold, gold mine, gold coast, or how about a
gold fish?
Anniversary Stone: Tourmaline
Pink, orange, green, golden, or red, Tourmaline could be called the mood stone.
It can take on any color of the rainbow and then some, thus making it a
gemological puzzle. Perfect in any occasion, it resembles the wearer, and takes
on its personality and traits.
Traditional Theme: Bronze / Pottery
Who could forget the very sensual scene in Ghost where
Demi More and Patrick Swaze
are loved in an embrace while making pottery? So run to the art store and get
your personal beginner's kit, or throw an arts &
crafts party and ask all your friends to come ready to create.
Modern Themes: Linens
Linens were once the most sought after items in a trousseau. Mothers and
grandmothers religiously put together the apparatus of their daughters --
future brides-to-be -- with great care and rational. Modern again, linens are a
symbol of cocooning, that very famous movement of the late 80s, which is sure
to gain new momentum.
Anniversary Stone: Lapis Lazuli
Latin for stone and Arabic for sky-blue, Lapis Lazuli literally translates to
azure stone. Second to Onyx, Lapis Lazuli is a favorite among men. Its deep
blue hue can easily be worn, and has a masculine deep shade. Most Lapis Lazuli
come from Afghanistan, and because of the stone's popularity, there are many
imitations or dyed stones out there; so be very careful as to the origin of the
stone, and be sure to ask for a certificate of authenticity.
Traditional Theme: Pottery /
Weeping willows are some of the most romantic trees to engrave your love onto.
Usually close to water, a symbol of life, these trees can blossom most anywhere.
If you prefer the timeless factor, opt for a fairy-tale picnic at the foot of a
willow oak -- symbolizing romance and strength.
Modern Themes: Leather
Decidedly, this one will not go away! How about a
leatherback or leatherjacket? It's not what you think. The first is the largest
living sea turtle, and the later a fish of the Balistidae
family. Both can be found in tropical waters. So head out to warm seas and go
for a swim.
Anniversary Stone: Diamond jewelry
It is unbelievable that one would have to wait ten
years for a diamond. But such is tradition, and while you may have splurged on
THE gem before this milestone date, 'tis is the time
to hit it big. While it is impossible to ask that each anniversary be marked
with a diamond carat -- although it is a nice thought, by now one would be able
to claim a 10ct weight stone -- such an important date as the ten year mark
should be celebrated in style. A one-carat is a must. Diamonds are especially
nice because they can be worn easily both by men and women. Perhaps an
up-graded pair of wedding bands with diamonds would do justice to your ongoing
commitment to one another.
Traditional Theme: Tin
Remember the Tin Man who found that he indeed had a heart? Well, this is one
explanation for this traditional theme. Another would be the meaning derived
from the properties of tin -- a malleable metal often used in coating to help
prevent corrosion. After all, 10 years together definitely shows strength, lack
of corrosion and most surely malleability.
Modern Themes: Aluminum / Diamond
Forget Aluminum. Stick to diamonds.
Anniversary Stone: Turquoise
Very important to the Egyptians and Aztecs, in the US, Turquoise has mostly
been associated with Native American Folk Art, and thus has seen its popularity
go through many ups-and-downs. Yet, connoisseurs have always associated
Turquoise to skillful jewelry artisanry and other
decorative arts -- much like Amber and Ivory were used. While most of us think
of
Traditional Theme: Steel
While the industry continuously strives to innovate,
steel is rarely used in jewelry because most stones cannot be set in steel.
With new techniques such as "tension" and the setting of diamonds on
watch bezels, it is nowadays possible to find this timeless, resistant metal in
fine jewelry making. However, it is still a novelty and precious metals such as
gold are the preferred method of setting fine jewelry.
Modern Themes: Steel / Jewelry
Congratulations! You're above the ten-year mark. A lot has happened in ten
years but some things never change. Now would be a good time for a major
overhaul, after all not all things are made of steel. It may even be time for a
new car. One that can travel the road with you and your loved
one on another ten-year journey.
Anniversary Stone: Jade
Although the beauty of Jade is reason enough to wear
it, most revere its healing and mystical powers. Today, Jade is worn as mush as
an amulet as fine jewelry. Its wearers believe in its protective properties and
capacity to bring good health and luck. The royal gemstone of
Traditional Theme: Silk / Linen
If your loved one appears jaded, it's a good sign. It
means you've done a fantastic job during the past eleventh anniversaries. One
of the reasons Jade is so popular is because of its deep translucent green
color. Green is the color of hope -- and of the almighty greenback -- so
compliment her new Jade talisman with a set of deep green, silk satin sheets.
Modern Themes: Silk / Linen / Pearl
Pearl and Jade are often associated with Asia, where the most beautiful
specimen can be found, and where they are most revered and regarded as infinite
treasures of beauty and well-being. It is also in
Anniversary Stone: Citrine
A bolt of energy and light, Citrine ranges in color from lemon-yellow to
amber-brown; perfect colors for anyone. Citrine jewelry is especially popular
for the flattering glow it casts on every complexion. A member of the quartz
family, Citrine symbolizes truth and integrity.
Traditional Theme: Lace
How romantic and feminine! Real lace is actually very hard to find and can
fetch astronomical prices. The most famous lace comes from
Modern Themes: Lace / Fur / Textiles
A fur can be a very controversial gift, thus making it
difficult to know if you're doing the right thing. By now, you know if your
loved-one would rather go naked than to wear fur, as the famous ETA saying
goes. The problem is that buying fur is as complicated as buying jewelry, so we
recommend you stick with jewelry, since you've become an expert. Also, while
Alaskan and Canadian men may wear fur to combat the brutal cold of their native
land, you rarely see it on any other man. The only other option that could work
is a lovely furry bedspread that you can both enjoy at the same time.
Anniversary Stone: Opal
The most dramatic looking of all gemstones, Opal is
known for its dazzling, fiery combination of colors. The unique formation of
tiny spheres that make up each Opal creates this magnificent play of colors.
Opal is a symbol of hope and inspiration.
Traditional Theme: Ivory
Ivory is certainly beautiful but, unfortunately, it is also illegal. Since
1989, both African and Asian elephants are protected against poachers looking
for their tusks -- since the 1970s, aggressive poaching put these extraordinary
animals on the endangered species list (CITES). Only older pieces can now be
found mostly in antique shops or museums. If you own heirlooms made of Ivory,
be careful when traveling internationally as the customs of different nations
may be authorized to seize them.
Modern Themes: Ivory / Gold
While Ivory jewelry is a thing of the past, the combination of ivory and gold
make wonderful colors for a themed party or celebration. Also both call to
foreign lands like the
Anniversary Stone: Ruby
Prized by kings throughout the ages, the precious Ruby is a rare gem. An
extremely durable stone, Ruby is loved for its luscious berry-red hues, and is
a symbol of happiness and good fortune. Even today, Ruby enjoys a ratio of 2.1
when compared to the price of diamonds.
Traditional Theme: Crystal
Crystal is very pure and is one of the most popular gifts on wedding registries.
The problem is that by now, you have probably accumulated enough crystal bowls,
vases, glasses, flutes, and plates to last you a lifetime. Instead, try some
beautiful mouth-blown crystal jewelry. A lot of designers and venerable luxury
houses have launched accessory collections using this amazing material.
Modern Themes: Glass / Watches
Watches tell time. Time spent apart and time captured together. Nowadays, it is
very common to find watches with adornments such as diamond bezels, ruby
cabochons, mother of pearl dials, gold or baguette markers, etc. Dials are a
beautiful way to send a personal message with special engraving.
Anniversary Stone: Peridot
Peridot is French for "gem." Ranging in
color from light yellow-green to deep-olive, the versatile Peridot
is often referred to as the "Evening Emerald." Admired for its sunlit
glow, Peridot symbolizes warmth and charity.
Anniversary Stone: Watches
Watches tell time. Time spent apart and time captured together. Nowadays, it is
very common to find watches with adornments such as diamond bezels, ruby
cabochons, mother of pearl dials, gold or baguette markers, etc. Dials are a
beautiful way to send a personal message with special engraving.
Anniversary Stone: Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl
When visiting a fine Japanese jewelry store, Cat's Eye
Chrysoberyl will most likely be the highlight of the
men's jewelry showcase. The gem's almost exclusive identification with men, and the Japanese's passion for it are a mystery.
Perhaps it's its translucent honey, milky color. Or it could be the mysterious
slit of reflected white light that intersects the stone lengthwise when cut in
cabochon form.
Anniversary Stone: Aquamarine
Beloved for its cool serene ice blue hues, Aquamarine retains excellent
clarity. In ancient times, this gem was thought to be capable of preserving
youth and health. Aquamarine is commonly thought to symbolize peace and
tranquility.
Anniversary Stone: Emerald
Beloved by Venus, Roman Goddess of love and beauty, Emerald is one of the most
prized gemstones. Precious in every way, Emerald has a rich spring-green color
that symbolizes growth and fertility.
Traditional Theme:
Like Crystal, you probably own enough of it by now, that you've
started giving it away to your children who are getting married. So on this
twentieth anniversary, why not take a long-needed trip. One
that will stay with you for many years to come. The
Modern Themes:
Platinum is the other precious metal. Unlike gold, it
doesn't need any alloys when made into a jewelry item. Gold at its purest (24K)
is too soft for jewelry, but platinum can be used directly as Mother Nature
made it. However, it is still very pricey because it is not as abundant as
gold, and it doesn't come in the form of nuggets. It is the small particles
that are found in the rock that need to be extracted. You sometimes need
several tones of rock to produce one single piece of jewelry.
Anniversary Stone: Iolite
With the high prices of Sapphire and the rising ones of Tanzanite, Iolite is
fast becoming the preferred stone amongst collectors looking for a new
affordable blue gem. Greek for violet, Iolite is commonly known as the
"water sapphire." Like its fellow blue-bloods, Sapphire and
Tanzanite, Iolite transmits light differently when viewed from different
angles. By observing the sky through Iolite, Viking navigators were able to
locate the exact position of the sun on overcast days. Where, you might ask,
did these famous seamen get Iolite? Well, it's been found in, among other
Viking haunts, Greenland and
Anniversary Stone: Spinel
Spinel occurs in almost every color, and creates gems
of all colors. It is not a well-known gem, although a good specimen can attain
a very high price. Bright red Spinel, known as Ruby Spinel, is the most valuable. In the past, there was no
distinction between Ruby and Ruby Spinel, as they
look identical and are found in the same localities. Nowadays, distinctions can
be made through hardness and x-ray tests. Many famous old "Rubies"
were found to be Spinel. The enormous
"Ruby" that forms the centerpiece of the royal crown of
Anniversary Stone: Imperial Topaz
Topaz naturally comes in several colors, Gold Topaz, Imperial Topaz, Blue
Topaz, and Smoky Topaz. Imperial and Gold Topaz are used for prosperity. Topaz
is a stone that has been worn and revered for centuries; it is a stone of popes
and leaders. Though it works best alone, it does well with Diamonds, and has
been combined with Tiger's Eye in many prosperity rituals.
Anniversary Stone: Tanzanite
As jewelry designers learned to love Tanzanite, this
gem has begun to be appreciated for itself rather than as a Sapphire
substitute. This isn't to say that the old connoisseur color ideal for this
gem, a
Anniversary Stone: Emerald
Beloved by Venus, Roman Goddess of love and beauty, Emerald is one of the most
prized gemstones. Precious in every way, Emerald has a rich spring-green color
that symbolizes growth and fertility.
Traditional Theme: Silver
Silver owes its name to ancient alchemists who called it Luna or Diana after
the Goddess of the Moon. Silver conducts heat and electricity better than any
other metal, and with the exception of gold, is the most malleable of all
natural metals. It has been used as an adornment and coinage metal since
ancient times. Silver is usually alloyed with small amounts of other metals to
make it harder and more durable.
Modern Themes: Silver
Anything silver will look great for a party or a
celebration. This metal has become very available in everything from jewelry,
tableware, silverware, decorative arts, etc. Unlike Platinum, silver is a lot
more affordable, and is as popular as it is accessible. While Silver is
commonly used with semi-precious stones, it is never the metal of choice for
fine jewelry and the setting of precious stones.
Anniversary Stone:
A symbol of purity, Aphrodite, Goddess of Love,
considered the pearl to be sacred. A wonderful treasure of the sea, the pearl
comes to life embedded in the finest oysters. Throughout the ages, pearl divers
who could dive up to 72 feet were the subject of many stories and legends.
Traditional Theme: Pearl / CloisonnÔ
Originating in Beijing, China, CloisonnÔ is
enamelware, which requires bronze and porcelain-working skills as well as
traditional painting and etching, making it the pinnacle of traditional Chinese
handicraft. CloisonnÔ is used in home dÔcor, and young women love bracelets and earrings, which
make great gifts.
Modern Themes: Pearl
See
Anniversary Stone: Emerald
Beloved by Venus, the Roman Goddess of love and beauty, Emerald is one of the
most prized gemstones. Precious in every way, Emerald has a rich spring-green
color that symbolizes growth and fertility.
Traditional Theme: Coral
Coral is among the most ancient of gem materials, used for adornment since
prehistoric times. Coral inlays and ornaments have been found in Celtic tombs
from the Iron Age; it is one of the seven treasures in Buddhist scriptures; and
Tibetan Lamas use coral rosaries. Coral was long thought to be a powerful talisman
that could stop bleeding, protect from evil spirits, and ward off hurricanes.
Modern Themes: Coral / Jade
Most coral is found in the Mediterranean Sea or in the
Pacific off
Anniversary Stone: Ruby
Prized by kings throughout the ages, the precious Ruby is a rare gem. An
extremely durable stone, Ruby is loved for its luscious berry-red hues and is a
symbol of happiness and good fortune.
Traditional Theme: Ruby / Garnet
The Egyptian Goddess
Modern Themes: Ruby
See above
Anniversary Stone: Sapphire
The most popular precious stone, Sapphire is known for its brilliance and durability.
Although it occurs in every color except red, the stone is best known and loved
for its deep celestial blue hue. Sapphire is a symbol of faith and goodness.
Traditional Theme: Sapphire
See above
Modern Themes: Sapphire
See above
Anniversary Stone: Golden Jubilee
Always a sure value, yellow gold is the most precious material. Complement your
treasure chest with chains and slides that can easily work with any pendant or
neck styles. A special gift would be a necklace made of 50 gold chains all in
variable length that your loved one can easily wear day after day, and from
day-to-evening.
Traditional Theme: Gold
See above
Modern Themes: Gold
See above
Anniversary Stone: Alexandrite
A fascinating gemstone, Alexandrite actually changes
color from green in daylight to red in incandescent light. Alexandrite has a
distinguished and glamorous past: it was discovered in 1830 in Czarist Russia.
Since the Old Russian imperial colors are red and green, it was named after
Czar Alexander II on the occasion of his coming of age. Red and green are also
the colors of wedding gowns for South Korean and Chinese brides. When evaluating
Alexandrite, mostly pay attention to the color change: the more dramatic and
complete the shift from red to green, without the bleeding through of brown
from one color to the next, the more rare and valuable the stone. The other
important value factors are the attractiveness of the two colors -- the more
intense the better -- the clarity, and the cutting quality. Because of the
rarity of this gemstone, large sizes command very high premiums.
Traditional Theme: Emerald
Beloved by Venus, the Roman Goddess of love and beauty, Emerald is one of the
most prized gemstones. Precious in every way, Emerald has a rich spring-green
color that symbolizes growth and fertility.
Modern Themes: Emerald / Turquoise
Very important to the Egyptians and Aztecs, in the US, Turquoise has mostly
been associated with Native American Folk Art, and thus has seen its popularity
go through many ups-and-downs. Yet, connoisseurs have always associated
Turquoise to skillful jewelry artisanry and other
decorative arts -- much like Amber and Ivory were used. While most of us think
of
Anniversary Stone: Diamond
Diamonds are a worldwide symbol of love, and the most brilliant gemstone. The
ancient Greeks believed that they were splinters of stars that had fallen to
Earth. Diamond jewelry is universally treasured as a symbol of everlasting love
and perfection.
Traditional Theme: Diamond Jubilee
See above
Modern Themes: Diamond / Gold
See above
Anniversary Stone: Sapphire
The most popular precious stone, Sapphire is known for its brilliance and
durability. Although it occurs in every color except red, the stone is best
known and loved for its deep celestial blue hue. Sapphire is a symbol of faith
and goodness.
Traditional Theme: Sapphire Jubilee
See above
Modern Themes: Sapphire
See above
Anniversary Stone: Diamond
Diamonds are a worldwide symbol of love, and the most brilliant gemstone. The
ancient Greeks believed that they were splinters of stars that had fallen to Earth.
Diamond jewelry is universally treasured as a symbol of everlasting love and
perfection.
Traditional Theme: Diamond
See above
Modern Themes: Diamond / Gold
See above