Anniversary Gifts 30 - 60: The Final Stretch
By: Michael Russell
Starting at the thirtieth anniversary, the themes consist of gems or precious metals. It’s easy to fool oneself into thinking that jewelry is the only option, but it doesn’t have to be. I’ll try to add some things based on the colours of the gems and country’s they might represent. I have to admit though, that some of these ideas will cost you more than a ring, but they just might bring more joy and make happy memories for both. Since gems and trips are quite expensive, try doing something with the colour of each theme. You can buy clothes items, make-up, perfumes, etc.
Year 30 is the precious Pearl. If you are considering a trip, go to an island in the South Seas, where you can observe pearl divers at their work. If that is too much for your wallet, take her to a full moon picnic and offer her a dinner of oysters. When it comes to jewelry, hardly any woman will say no to a traditional pearl necklace or earrings. For him, get a silver or gold tie clip fitted with a pearl.
Year 35 is Coral or Jade. You have a wider selection of colours, since coral comes in red, rose, orange, blue, white and black and Jade in hues of green. For a trip, you could go to the Great Barrier Reef in Australia or the Orient. If you’re thinking jewelry, you have a huge selection of non-expensive items for her and cufflinks or a tie clip for him. Chess sets are also beautiful, as are coral sculptures, bookends or a Jade tree.
Year 40 is Ruby. The colour alone can inspire so many gifts. If you like things simple, go with red wine and red roses. Or take a trip to Russia. Since red is a colour that looks good on almost anybody, you can go with scarves, silk bathrobes or red leather items, such as purses. For men, you could get a ring, cufflinks or a tie clip set with a ruby.
Sapphire is the theme for year 45. It’s now or never, so take a cruise into the blue Caribbean waters! If you get seasick, at least take your partner for a weeklong stay at a blue body of water. Blue is a colour that looks great on men and women alike, so you have a lot of options in clothing and also in jewelry.
Year 50 is Gold. Nowadays, I believe that if you have been together for so long, you really don’t need gifts anymore to express your love! But, if you’re the romantic type or have a tradition of giving gifts on anniversaries, by all means, go ahead. You have all the options in jewelry, like bracelets, necklaces, earrings, cufflinks or a tie clip. Take a trip to Italy or watch a golden sunset together on a beach. Other gifts could be an engraved pen or picture frames.
Year 55 is the beautiful Emerald. Go to the Emerald Isle (Ireland), or just rent a cabin in the woods. Jewelry and clothing are also great.
Though it doesn’t happen very often, some couples still have the pleasure of celebrating anniversary number 60, Diamond. This is a tough one, since diamonds are mostly associated with jewelry. If you’re both still good at traveling, go to Belgium, Africa or England.
Remember, it’s not only about getting a gift; it’s about celebrating the time spent together. If you’re not the material type, opt for saving for a trip, or buying a cottage, or just simply a weekend at the spa. Most important of all, enjoy!
Michael Russell
Your Independent guide to Anniversary Gifts