The traditional anniversary list gives each year a material, from paper to diamond. The modern list offers alternatives. Use either — or simply as a creative prompt.
The list
| Year | Traditional | Modern |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Paper | Clocks |
| 2 | Cotton | China |
| 3 | Leather | Crystal or glass |
| 4 | Fruit and flowers | Appliances |
| 5 | Wood | Silverware |
| 6 | Iron | Wood objects |
| 7 | Wool or copper | Desk sets |
| 8 | Bronze | Linens and lace |
| 9 | Pottery | Leather |
| 10 | Tin or aluminum | Diamond jewelry |
| 11 | Steel | Fashion jewelry |
| 12 | Silk or linen | Pearls |
| 13 | Lace | Textiles |
| 14 | Ivory (choose ivory-colored items) | Gold jewelry |
| 15 | Crystal | Watches |
| 20 | China | Platinum |
| 25 | Silver | Silver |
| 30 | Pearl | Diamond |
| 35 | Coral | Jade |
| 40 | Ruby | Ruby |
| 45 | Sapphire | Sapphire |
| 50 | Gold | Gold |
| 55 | Emerald | Emerald |
| 60 | Diamond | Diamond |
Ideas that feel personal
- Paper: a letter, framed vows, concert tickets, a custom map of where you met.
- Cotton: a quilt, robes, a picnic blanket and a day out.
- Leather: a journal, a watch strap, weekend bags for a trip.
- Wood: a tree to plant, a cutting board engraved with a family recipe.
The anniversary gift finder shows ideas for any year.
More ideas by year
- 5, wood: a tree planted together, a hand-carved keepsake box, a cabin weekend.
- 10, tin or diamonds: a tin of ten years of letters, or a trip back to where you honeymooned.
- 15, crystal: crystal glasses and a special bottle saved for the day.
- 25, silver: a vow renewal or a party with your wedding guests.
- 50, gold: a family celebration and a book of letters from children and grandchildren.
Traditions to start
Reread your vows, go back to the same restaurant, take a photo in the same spot every year, or write each other a letter to open on the next anniversary.
General information, not legal, medical or financial advice. Confirm details with your vendors, venue, officiant and local authorities.
Questions people ask
What is the traditional first anniversary gift?
Paper. The modern alternative is clocks.
What anniversary is silver?
The 25th.
What is the 10th anniversary gift?
Tin or aluminum traditionally, and diamond jewelry on the modern list.
What is the 50th anniversary gift?
Gold, on both the traditional and modern lists.
