Diamonds were once the penultimate 75th anniversary gift. These days though, a diamond anniversary seems to come around much faster.
Marking a wedding anniversary
The celebration of wedding anniversaries has been with us for a long, long time. In the Holy Roman Empire, for example, couples celebrated by the husband crowning his spouse with a wreath of precious metal. Silver was the choice for 25 years and gold for the 50th anniversary. Many believe this tradition persisted through the Middle Ages, when wreaths also became a symbol of long life and prosperity.
Although diamond is traditional for a 75th anniversary, couples celebrating such long life were rare indeed. Much like these fabulous gemstones once were themselves.
Traditional anniversary gifts
Over time, more celebration years and gifts became traditional. Most of these (like paper, cotton, silk and iron) were symbols of their day as well as tokens of esteem.
5 – Wood – this may have been a spindle or lace bobbin
10 – Tin – maybe a watering can or milk pail to help out at home
15 – Crystal – of the glassware variety, a bowl or stemware perhaps
20 – China – a new set of fine bone china or possibly a collectable
25 – Silver – anything from a dressing table set to grand candelabra
30 – Pearl – graduated strands with a diamond clasp were popular
40 – Ruby – typically an anniversary ring, with gems set in line
50 – Gold – something made from the most enduring metal of all
60 – Diamond – for preference, a diamond anniversary ring or watch
75 – Diamond – perhaps a stunning brooch or diamond necklace
Diamonds and the Modern Anniversary
Especially between couples, most modern gifts are personal. The household goods of days gone by are much less popular. So it’s not so surprising anniversary gifts have moved with the times too.
5 – Silver – maybe a sweet little pair of earrings
10 – Diamond – a diamond anniversary ring
15 – Watch – Swiss movement and jewels
20 – Platinum – set with gemstones, of course
25 – Silver – be sure to opt for heavy, solid silver here
30 – Diamond – perhaps matching diamond earrings and pendant
40 – Ruby – modern anniversary rings often encircle the finger with gems
50 – Gold – a high carat weight piece from the most enduring metal of all
60 – Diamond – maybe a custom made diamond anniversary ring
75 – Diamond –diamond necklace or watch are popular choices
Create your own piece of history by customising your very own diamond ring here.