Anniversary Jewellery: How to Choose a Piece They’ll Treasure Forever

When it comes to anniversary jewellery, anniversaries are about more than dates on a calendar. Instead, they’re milestones that tell the story of a couple’s journey. Moreover, what better way to celebrate them than with jewellery that lasts a lifetime?

This anniversary jewellery guide explores the traditions, modern trends, and personal touches that make anniversary gifts meaningful.

Learn more: The Complete Guide to Buying Jewellery as a Gift

Turning Anniversaries Into Memories You Can Wear

At Argent & Asher, I’ve helped couples mark everything from their 1st anniversary to their diamond (60th) celebration with jewellery that feels personal, timeless, and treasured.

Why Jewellery Makes the Perfect Anniversary Gift

In reality, not all anniversary gifts are created equal. However, jewellery stands out for its enduring beauty, emotional symbolism, and daily wearability.

Why jewellery works so well:

• Firstly, timeless: Unlike flowers or trips, it doesn’t fade.
• Secondly, symbolic: Metals and gemstones each carry meaning.
• Thirdly, personal: Can be engraved, personalised, or designed bespoke.
• Additionally, wearable: A reminder of love worn close every day.
• Finally, heirloom quality: Pieces can be passed down for generations.

Jewellery by Year – Traditional & Modern Meanings

For centuries, different anniversary years have been linked to specific materials and gemstones. While not everyone follows these traditions strictly, they offer a wonderful starting point for choosing jewellery that’s both symbolic and personal.

Traditional anniversary jewellery gifts have been recorded for centuries, with milestones like silver for 25 years and gold for 50 years (Wikipedia).

Quick reference guide:

For more inspiration, UK jeweller TH Baker lists traditional anniversary jewellery gifts by year.

1st to 10th Anniversaries

• 1st (Paper): Instead of paper, couples often choose engraved pendants to symbolise their first year together.
• 5th (Wood): Wooden tones translate into warm yellow gold pieces.
• 10th (Tin/Aluminium): Traditionally tin, but many now upgrade to diamonds,  a sign of lasting strength.

10th to 25th Anniversaries

• 10th (Diamond): A wonderful milestone for a Diamond Name Necklace.
• 20th (Emerald): A chance to mix vivid green emeralds with delicate diamonds.
• 25th (Silver): Celebrate with elegant silver jewellery that feels both classic and personal.

30th to 50th Anniversaries

• 30th (Pearl): Often modernised with diamond + pearl mixes.
• 40th (Ruby): One of my favourite anniversaries to design jewellery for, I love mixing rubies with diamonds for vivid contrast.
• 50th (Gold): The golden anniversary deserves a Gold Name Necklace or personalised bracelet.

60th Anniversary and Beyond

• 60th (Diamond): The ultimate milestone. Diamond Name Necklaces or eternity bands are enduring favourites.

How to Choose a Piece They’ll Treasure Forever

Choosing anniversary jewellery isn’t just about tradition, it’s about meaning.

Key things to consider:

• Firstly, their style: Do they prefer delicate chains or bold statement pieces?
• Secondly, existing jewellery: Does it layer with what they already wear?
• Thirdly, symbolism: Birthstones, initials, engravings make it personal.
• Finally, practicality: Something wearable daily, not just for occasions.

Example: A client once asked me to design a necklace for his wife’s 25th anniversary. Instead of simply silver, we incorporated their children’s initials alongside the silver base, a truly one-of-a-kind piece she treasures.

Modern Jewellery Trends

While tradition still plays a role, many couples now choose jewellery that reflects modern style and personal stories.

As a result, the following trends have become increasingly popular at Argent & Asher:

• Firstly, personalised anniversary jewellery - names, initials, dates.
• Secondly mixing coloured gemstones with diamonds - a hallmark of our designs.
• Thirdly, engraved pendants - with handwriting or special phrases.
• Finally, stackable pieces - each year adding a layer to the story.

FAQs About Anniversary Jewellery

What jewellery is best for an anniversary gift?

Generally, timeless pieces that suit personal style, such as a Diamond Name Necklace or engraved pendant work best.

What jewellery is for a 10th wedding anniversary?

Traditionally, the 10th is linked to tin, but modern guides link the 10th to diamonds, making it the perfect moment for diamond jewellery.

What jewellery is for a 25th wedding anniversary?

Naturally, the 25th is silver, think chunky silver bangles or necklaces, perhaps personalised with initials or dates.

What jewellery is for a 50th wedding anniversary?

Fittingly, the 50th is gold, a Gold Name Necklace or bespoke bracelet is ideal.

Should anniversary jewellery be traditional or modern?

Ultimately, it depends. Many couples blend the two, choosing a gemstone linked to tradition, yet at the same time, favouring a personalised or modern design.

Final Thoughts – Making It Personal

At the end of the day, anniversary jewellery is ultimately about creating a piece that reflects your shared story. Of course traditions can guide you, but the most meaningful gifts are those that feel personal.

As I’ve learned working with couples at Argent & Asher, the truth is, anniversary pieces that are most treasured are the ones that feel like they were made just for them.

Finally, discover:

• Personalised Jewellery Collection
• Diamond Name Necklace Collection
• Gold Name Necklace Collection
• Engraved Jewellery