What Are Customary Anniversary Gifts?

Celebrate your anniversary with old world traditional gifts.the gift 19 image by Paul Moore from Fotolia.com

Anniversaries are a time to celebrate the special day you became husband and wife. Specific materials became associated with anniversaries in Europe during medieval times. Today, we continue these traditional gift choices, and celebrate the meaning behind each one. Be creative and add your own style as you choose your gift.

First

The traditional gift for a first year anniversary is paper. Paper symbolizes a blank page, a beginning for the story of your marriage. Paper gifts can include a stationary set personalized with your spouse's name. A framed photo print or painting is also appropriate. Consider writing a poem for your spouse. A common item such as paper can be made quite personal when you put your heart into it.

Wood is the customary gift for the fifth year of marriage. Stronger than paper, yet more vulnerable than metal, wood represents the growing strength of your union. A jewelry or watch box made from wood is an apt gift for your fifth anniversary. Wooden sculptures or plaques also are suitable gifts. For a gift you can share, install new hardwood floors in your home.

Tenth anniversaries are traditionally celebrated with gifts of tin or aluminum. The first of the metal anniversary years, tin represents the solidity of your marriage. Aluminum's resistance to deterioration reminds you of the unified team you have become over the last 10 years. Coffee or tea tins full of your spouse's favorite drink is a popular option. Make the gift more valuable by including gift certificates to her favorite coffee house. Flowers in a vase made of aluminum also make a fitting choice.

Silver is the customary gift for a 25th wedding anniversary. Silver is a rare and precious metal, making it an appropriate way to honor a couple who have reached this milestone anniversary. There are many gift choices available in silver. Silver jewelry is an option that is both practical and affordable. Other choices include silver barware such as an ice bucket or martini shaker. Gifts in the color silver are also appropriate for this anniversary. Buy her a shimmery silver blouse to wear at your anniversary dinner. Present him with a necktie with silver accents.

To celebrate a true achievement, gold is the customary gift for 50 years of marriage. Gold is one of the rarest and most precious metals. It symbolizes permanence and worth. Much like the bands of gold you placed on each other's fingers 50 years ago, your marriage has proven its durability and solidity. Gold jewelry is a traditional choice. Consider personalizing a pendent, locket or pocket watch for your spouse. Purchase a "Golden Ticket" to a destination you and your spouse have always dreamed of visiting. Wrap the tickets with a golden ribbon to complete the golden anniversary package.