The symbolic meanings behind wedding anniversary names

To add to the chaos, every fifth year that a married couple has been together tends to denote a particular gem or material that is meant to influence the type of gift that they are given. Read on as we go over the symbolic meaning of these anniversary names and why traditional gifts are being replaced by modern alternatives…

Wood, Tin, Crystal, China, Silver

As a durable material, wood represents the 5^th wedding anniversary and is said to reference the solidification of a marriage and its ability to rise above hardship. On the 10^th anniversary, the metal tin is used in order to indicate the continued strength of a relationship but also the flexibility that is required to sustain a lifelong bond. Following on from this, the crystal gem represents the 15^th year of marriage in order to remind couples how fragile a partnership is and how carefully it must be nurtured, and the 20^th anniversary is defined by china for similar reasons. Finally, the quarter of a century milestone (25^th) is denoted by silver for both historical reference and to symbolise the radiance and value of a long and happy marriage.

Pearl, Coral, Ruby, Sapphire, Gold

Couples that reach their 30^th anniversary are thought to be rare which is why pearl is the representation of this milestone. On the other hand, coral is often associated with magic and protection and it is thought to symbolise the 35^th anniversary as a protection against sterility. Since the ruby gemstone is thought to possess an inner flame, it represents the 40^th anniversary and the passion that remains after so long whereas the sapphire gemstone signifies royalty. Its deep blue colour is supposed to represent the deep love that couples share after 45 happy years together. Finally, the 50^th anniversary is represented by gold, the most timeless and treasured material of all time, with the intention of symbolising the achievement that is 50 years of marriage.

Emerald, Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Platinum, Oak

Just like a couple that manages to make it to their 55^th wedding anniversary, an emerald is quite a rare find. The Egyptians regarded this gemstone as a symbol of life and it is thought to promote domestic bliss and longevity. As the most valuable gem, diamond represents the 60^th anniversary in order to denote how precious a marriage that lasts so long is and how it should be cherished. The 65^th anniversary is represented by a blue sapphire, a rare and exotic gem that symbolises the loyalty that a partnership needs to survive for so long, whereas the 70^th milestone is denoted by platinum, one of the world’s most celebrated materials, in order to signify the enormous bond of such a long partnership. Finally, the 80^th wedding anniversary takes it back to basics and is represented by oak, symbolising the strength and endurance of 80 years of marriage.

It is safe to say that very few modern couples expect these specific items, and this gives friends and family some wiggle room when finding the perfect gifts for a specific anniversary. But, we’re doing our best to help with paper and tin date box options available. Plus, there is our dedicated Anniversary Edition – perfect for Silver, Pearl, Ruby, and Golden milestones and can be personalised with names and dates to make it an extra special gift.