Anniversary Gifts By Year: Traditional vs Modern Gifts

A woman wears her stunning pearl jewellery pieces gifted for a wedding anniversary.
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Every wedding anniversary marks a new chapter in a couple’s love story and are milestones that deserve celebration. For centuries, partners have exchanged symbolic gifts to honour these moments, gifts that not only represent the number of years together but also the growth of the lasting relationship.  

Choosing the perfect anniversary gift has long been guided by both traditional and modern milestone lists. While traditional gifts carry symbolic meaning rooted in history, modern interpretations offer updates ways to celebrate love. Below, you'll find all major anniversaries covered, with quick references, symbolism, and thoughtful gift ideas for each milestone.

Key Takeaways

  • Anniversary gifts carry meaning, from paper in the first year to diamonds at 60 years, each material reflects the growth of a marriage.
  • Traditional vs modern lists offer flexibility, where couples can choose to honour traditional gifts or embrace contemporary alternatives, or a combination of both!
  • Pearls are timeless anniversary gifts, traditionally marked by the 30th wedding anniversary but also celebrated at the 4 year and 12 year mark in modern lists. They symbolise resilience and enduring beauty.
  • Meaningful gifts last a lifetime, especially ethically sourced jewellery that can be passed down as heirloom pieces.
  • Milestone anniversaries deserve special recognition, like silver for the 25th anniversary, pearls for the 30th, and diamonds for the 60th.

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  • This Eternal Pearl Ring features a Cygnet Bay (WA) grown 11mm Round A2+ grade Australian South Sea pearl set on a band with a row of 18 White Diamonds. It is photographed in its iconic Pearls of Australia luxury packaging.
  • This striking Keshi Pearl Strand Necklace features ninety-five (95) 5 to 10mm A grade Cygnet Bay (WA) grown Australian South Sea Keshi pearls. This 46cm pearl strand is carefully hand strung with silk and set with an 18ct White Gold Ball Clasp.
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The Tradition of Anniversary Gifts

The idea of giving specific gifts for each anniversary year is believed to have begun in medieval Europe. Over time, societies globally developed lists of anniversary gifts where each year is associated with a particular material like gold, silver, pearls, the list goes on!  

The symbolism behind these materials was important, for example paper for the first year represented fresh beginnings, with a stronger material like silver and gold marked for later years to symbolise durability and prosperity.  

These traditional anniversary gifts became a way to reflect the evolving nature of marriage, and today there is now a modern list that exists alongside the traditional ones. 

Understanding Traditional vs Modern Anniversary Gifts

So why do we have two lists? The traditional anniversary list honours centuries old symbolism, representing materials that grow stronger with each passing year. Meanwhile, the modern anniversary list was developed in the 21st century to reflect changing lifestyles. 

Some prefer to honour tradition, while others enjoy mixing both. This flexibility allows each couple to celebrate in a way that feels personal and true to their story.  

  • Both lists celebrate longevity and commitment, offering couples the choice to honour tradition or embrace a more updated expression of love

Anniversary Gifts By Year

Anniversary gifting traditions vary across culture, but certain years stand out as universal milestones. Below is a look at how traditional and modern anniversary gifts align and differ year by year.

Traditional Anniversary Gifts 

Paper, the Traditional 1 Year Anniversary Gift 

Paper represents the blank slate of a new marriage, ready for you to fill with shared memories.

Why not gift the book About a Girl, About a Pearl - a story about new beginnings and adventures. Otherwise, a Gift Certificate that can be used across our locations is another fantastic idea!

LEATHER, the Traditional 3 Year Anniversary Gift 

For the third wedding anniversary, traditionally leather is gifted. Leather represents flexibility and durability within a relationship - especially over the course of the three years together.

Shop our Nacre Necklaces, that pair our sustainably grown Mother of Pearl with Leather Cords.

Tin, the Traditional 10 Year Anniversary Gift 

If you've ever wondered what is the 10th anniversary gift, the answer is tin! Tin may seem simple, but it symbolises the ability to protect what’s inside, much like a marriage that safeguards a partnership.  For this milestone, consider meaningful keepsakes such as home décor or gifts for him. These gifts balance tradition with practicality while celebrating a decade of marriage.

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Silk, the Traditional 12 Year Anniversary Gift

Silk as a wedding anniversary gift represents the graceful weaving of a couple’s life together over the years. Honour this wedding anniversary with timeless silk jewellery pieces, ideal for gifting alongside a stunning pearl pendant or charm.  

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Silver, the Traditional & Modern 25 Year Anniversary Gift

After 25 years of marriage, a couple’s partnership is like silver: It has stood the rest of time and maintains its preciousness. Shop our collection of Australian grown pearls and mother of pearl set in stunning sterling silver designs.  

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Pearls, the Traditional 30 Year Anniversary Gift

When asking what is the 30th anniversary gift, traditions gives the answer of pearls. Representing wisdom gained through experience, pearls are the quintessential 30th anniversary symbol. Gift ideas include a classic pearl strand necklace, elegant pearl earrings, or an heirloom pearl ring.

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Gold, the Traditional & Modern 50 Year Anniversary Gift

Known as the "Golden Anniversary", the 50th wedding anniversary is universally marked by gold, a symbol of prosperity and an unbreakable bond. Its universal appeal and symbolism make gold jewellery a natural choice. Discover our collection of pearl jewellery pieces set in timeless 9ct and 18ct gold designs. 

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Diamonds, the Traditional & Modern 60 Year Anniversary Gift 

Diamonds, the hardest natural material, symbolises enduring strength and commitment, making them the perfect representation of 60 years of love.  

Pearls are diamonds' best friend, so celebrate this remarkable milestone with our beautiful range of pearls complemented by diamonds in unique designs.  

Modern Anniversary Gifts 

Crystal, the Modern 3 Year Anniversary Gift 

Crystal is gifted for the 3rd wedding anniversary for modern celebrations, and symbolises the honesty and beauty within your partnership.

Gift ideas for this includes gemstone jewellery, like our Gemstone Bracelets, signifying a bright future that lies ahead.

Diamond Jewellery, the Modern 10 & 30 Year Anniversary Gift 

For modern lists, diamonds are given not only at 60 years, but also at earlier milestones like the 10th and 30th wedding anniversaries.  

Shop our pearl jewellery set with stunning diamond accents. 

Pearls, the Modern 4 & 12 Year Anniversary Gift 

Pearls are recognised in the modern anniversary list for the 4th and 12th anniversary, making them an elegant choice to mark this milestone.  With a variety of timeless options featuring our Cygnet Bay and Broken Bay grown pearls, explore our range today for the modern 12 year anniversary gift.  

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Gold Jewellery, the Modern 14 Year Anniversary Gift 

In the modern anniversary list, gold jewellery marks the 14th year. This precious metal celebrates warmth and everlasting love that endures the test of time. Discover our range of gold jewellery pieces set with our stunning, Australian grown South Sea and Akoya pearls. 

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How to Choose the Perfect Anniversary Gift 

Whether you follow the traditional or modern anniversy list (or a blend of both), the best anniversary gifts are chosen with meaning. Here are a few considerations: 

Longevity: Gifts that last, like fine jewellery composed of precious metals and gemstones, serve as heirloom pieces. Choose gifts that carry memories through generations. 

Sustainability: Today’s couples are more conscious than ever about ethical sourcing. At Pearls of Australia, we cultivate our Australian-grown pearls at our very own pearl farms in Western Australia and New South Wales. We do this in a way that cares for our oceans, and our local communities.  

Symbolism: Pearls are a natural fit for anniversaries, representing the beauty of a love that has grown stronger with time and dedication.  

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Tips for Choosing the Right Anniversary Gift

When selecting the perfect anniversary gift, keep these guiding points in mind:

Personal meaning matters most. Choose something symbolic of your unique journey.

Blend tradition with modernity. Pick the gift list that resonates most with you.

Consider their style. Ensure the gift aligns with their everyday taste, and the jewellery that their already wear - including the type and colour of metal.

Think long-term. Heirloom quality gifts become treasures for future generations.

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  • This Eternal South Sea & Akoya Pearl Strand Bracelet features twenty-four (24) Broken Bay (NSW) grown 7.5mm AAA grade Australian Akoya pearls with one (1) Cygnet Bay (WA) grown 10mm Round B1 grade Australia South Sea pearl set alongside two White Diamond rondels (0.22ct H/SI).
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Celebrate Your Anniversary with Pearls of Australia

Celebrate your milestones with the timeless beauty of our Australian grown pearls. Whether it’s your 1st or 60th wedding anniversary, find a meaningful gift that tells your love story with Pearls of Australia.

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FAQs for Father’s Day Gifting 

What are the traditional anniversary gifts by year? 

Traditional wedding anniversary gifts are themed by materials assigned to specific anniverary years. Examples include paper for the first year, cotton for the second, and so on.  

These themes reflect the qualities of the relationship representing by the year of celebration.  

What is the pearl anniversary?  

In traditional lists, the 30th wedding anniversary is known as the pearl anniversary, symbolising wisdom and enduring love. It has been adopted as the modern 12 year anniversary gift. Shop our range of pearl jewellery pieces to discover the perfect gift. 

What is the gold anniversary? 

The 50th wedding anniversary is celebrated with gold, representing an unbreakable bond between two people.

What is the diamond anniversary? 

Traditionally, the 60th wedding anniversary is marked by diamonds, representing strength and longevity. In modern day, it is also celebrated by the 10 and 30 year wedding anniversaries. 

What is the silver anniversary? 

The 25th wedding anniversary is called the silver anniversary, the ultimate symbol of radiance.

What is the silk anniversary? 

Traditional wedding anniversary lists mark the 12th anniversary with silk, symbolising the weaving of two lives together to create a partnership.

What is the tin anniversary? 

The 10th wedding anniversary is associated with tin, representing durability and protection.

What is the difference between traditional and modern anniversary gifts? 

Traditional wedding gifts are rooted in symbolism and history, while modern gifts reflect contemporary tastes and change in lifestyles. 

Why choose pearls for an anniversary gift? 

Pearls are timeless, sustainable and deeply rooted in meaning. Formed slowly, layer by layer, they represent resilience and a labour of love that grows more beautiful over time. Discover our Australian grown pearl jewellery today, and celebrate your next anniversary with an heirloom gift.