Bridal Tips
Anniversary Gift Themes
Make each anniversary as special as the day it commemorates. Jewelry.com's guide to anniversary jewelry makes sure each year your anniversary gem is as sparkling as the gift itself. From diamonds to anniversary gems, men's jewelry to styles for her - it's all you need to know when it comes to perfect gift giving.
To help you better celebrate your much anticipated anniversary festivities, below is a detailed list of the most common traditional and modern anniversary celebration themes according to their year.
Technically, only the 25th and 50th anniversaries are celebrated in public, and customarily anniversaries are observed according to their traditional themes. With modern times however, some traditions have expended, and nowadays-modern themes can also be found.
Anniversary stones are dominant in most milestones dates, which are the five-year marks. And since there are no official traditional or modern themes for the sixteenth to nineteenth and for the twenty-first to twenty-fourth anniversaries, they should be celebrated according to the anniversary stone.
After the 25th year of marriage, official anniversary themes are only celebrated every fifth year. After the 55th anniversary, they are celebrated every tenth year up to the seventieth year.
Scroll down the list to find your wedding anniversary year or click on the corresponding number below.
Which anniversary would you like to learn about?
1; 2;
3; 4;
5; 6;
7; 8;
9; 10;
11; 12;
13; 14;
15; 16;
17; 18;
19; 20;
21; 22;
23; 24;
25; 30;
35; 40;
45; 50;
55; 60;
70; 75
1st Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Gold jewelry
Congratulations! You are no longer considered newlyweds. But it's too early to
mark this event with a stone -- So go for gold. Symbolize higher goals and
dreams by a heart bangle with special engraving. Remember gold is the yang, the
sun, good luck, and happiness.
Traditional Theme: Paper
Yes, you've made it past these twelve months but you're still considered a
lightweight, and anything can happen. So paper is the theme, a fragile material
that needs care but is very romantic; think of poetry, album photos, etc. Make a
book with all the love letters written to one another. Think of the environment
and print them on recycled paper. This way your love will never go to waste.
Modern Themes: Plastics and Clocks
Definitely not as romantic as paper, but plastic -- let's face it -- makes our
lives a lot easier. Why not a pair of tainted sunglasses to see the world in
pink? Or a watch, his has the hour hand and hers the minute hand, this way when
you're not together, time stands still.
2nd Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Garnet
Egyptian Goddess Isis adored garnets. They symbolize faith, truth and
friendship. Isis being the Goddess of fertility, could this mean that your
twosome will soon become a threesome? Or is it just that your relationship is so
strong it keeps giving out richness and growth?
Traditional Theme: Cotton
May be you're like Penelope who kept weaving her tapestry during the day and
unweaving it at night to fight off suitors while waiting the return of her
beloved Ulysses. Think of old world bed linens, tapestries, sarongs and the
embroided hankie, which can be a powerful and romantic tool as a gift of
comfort.
Modern Themes: Cotton / Calico / China
The Fabric of Our Lives-- If your loved-one prefers cotton to silk and satin, go
for some eyelet English embroided lingerie. Also, cotton is the only fabric
tolerated by a baby's skin. Or may be you'll go on a trip to the Great Wall of
China, the only man-made edifice that can be seen from space. Whatever the case,
romance is sure to rendezvous.
3rd Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Pearl
A symbol of purity, Aphrodite, Goddess of Love, considered the pearl to be
sacred. A wonderful treasure of the sea, the pearl comes to life embedded in the
finest oysters. Throughout the ages, pearl divers who could dive up to 72 feet
were the subject of many stories and legends.
Traditional Theme: Leather
Dare we think it? Perhaps another time, for now let's focus on the nobility of
the material. How about a western or old-fashioned prairie feel to your
celebration? Just round-up close friends and family members, and wine and dine
to your heart's content. Or you could just run out, get a couple of travel bags,
grab your Stetson Man, and head off to the wild, wild west, just the two of you.
Modern Themes: Leather / Crystal / Glass
Crystal is easy to play with during your festivities. It doesn't have to be
Baccarat or Lalique either. After all, the great Rene Lalique himself started
off as a wonderful jeweler working with glass. May be a beautiful compact mirror
that'll always remind her she's the fairest off them all. Another good bet are a
pair of matching champagne flutes with engraving.
4th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Blue Topaz
A tease, a prelude to next year's big gem, Blue Topaz is available in hues from
cool sky blue to deep Swiss blue. This sparkling gemstone symbolizes strength
and intelligence.
Traditional Theme: Flowers
Sometimes, once in a while, tradition doesn't live up to the circumstance. To
spice things up -- after all you've been at this for four years now -- think of
Blue Topaz flower jewels, or set the stage in a beautiful garden; if you don't
have your own, try your local winter garden or throw a flower ball in her honor,
and choose the flower of your wedding month, or yours and her home-state or
homeland.
Modern Themes: Linen / Silk / Nylon / Appliances
Definitely, this anniversary's themes aren't great! Appliances? Take our word
for it; do not come home with an appliance. Anything battery operated should be
banned from your gift list, although your man might enjoy the latest gadget. The
only worthy item on this list is silk. Grab yourselves a pair of his and hers
silk jamies and only wear them when you must; i.e.: company's coming, trip to
the folks, the kids are up, etc.
5th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Sapphire
Finally something to write home about! The most popular precious stone, Sapphire
is a symbol of faith and goodness. Truly revered, the deep celestial blue hue of
this gem is an all time favorite.
Traditional Theme: Wood
The Fifth Anniversary is a very special one. It marks a turn in your marriage
years. Statistics show that you are entering a danger zone because most divorces
happen in the 5-7 years bracket. Is it boredom, routine, life taking its toll?
No one knows but you must make an effort to make this anniversary extra special.
After all you've made it this far, which is already an accomplishment according
to the same statistics.
Modern Themes: Wood / Silverware
Wood and silverware go hand in hand with Sapphire. Think of a beautiful,
isolated cabin in the woods, a warm and cozy fireplace, and silver candelabras
on the table for a tÕte-Ë-tÕte feast where you'll reveal her Sapphire gift. If
you're more the Hollywood type, think of her as the heart of your ocean, or head
to deep-blue, silvery seas and a wooden deck.
6th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Amethyst
Amethysts have been coveted by royalty throughout the ages as symbols of wisdom,
strength and confidence. They are members of the quartz family known to hold
mysterious powers, and ward off evil. Remember you're still in the danger zone;
this could come in handy.
Traditional Theme: Candy / Iron
There's something truly exciting about candy. Is it because it's the first gift
a little girl gets from a little boy? Is it the lure of danger (your mother
always told you not to talk to strangers even if they gave you candy)? Or is it
just a hormonal chain reaction? Sweet nothings go a long way. Plan an Amethyst
in a bowl of purple Island Punch flavored jellybeans, and she'll melt.
Modern Themes: Iron / Wood
You have to strike while the iron is hot. And since both iron and wood are used
for carving, your goal on this anniversary is to carve your love for one another
into anything you can think of. The most committed will get tattoos; the
weak-at-heart will get nameplate jewelry.
7th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Onyx
Legend has it that one day Cupid cut the divine fingernails of Venus with an
arrowhead while she was sleeping. He left the clippings scattered around on the
sand, and the fates (the three Goddesses, Clotho, Lachesis and Antropos, who
control human destiny) turned them into Onyx so that no part of the heavenly
body would ever perish.
Traditional Theme: Copper / Wool
Copper is known for its healing virtues, and since you've made it through the
danger zone, it is only fair that you need a little healing. Copper makes a
wonderful color for a themed party, with a wide range of hues available. As for
wool, think of a warm blanket that you can both cuddle under, or Shetland
sweaters that you can take to the Highlands.
Modern Themes: Copper / Wool / Brass / Desk Sets
Desk sets are a thing of the past, and letter openers are too dangerous and can
be used against you. As for brass, gold is much better. As in gold jewelry,
heart of gold, pot of gold, gold mine, gold coast, or how about a gold fish?
8th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Tourmaline
Pink, orange, green, golden, or red, Tourmaline could be called the mood stone.
It can take on any color of the rainbow and then some, thus making it a
gemological puzzle. Perfect in any occasion, it resembles the wearer, and takes
on its personality and traits.
Traditional Theme: Bronze / Pottery
Who could forget the very sensual scene in Ghost where Demi More and Patrick
Swaze are loved in an embrace while making pottery? So run to the art store and
get your personal beginner's kit, or throw an arts & crafts party and ask
all your friends to come ready to create.
Modern Themes: Linens
Linens were once the most sought after items in a trousseau. Mothers and
grandmothers religiously put together the apparatus of their daughters -- future
brides-to-be -- with great care and rational. Modern again, linens are a symbol
of cocooning, that very famous movement of the late 80s, which is sure to gain
new momentum.
9th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Lapis Lazuli
Latin for stone and Arabic for sky-blue, Lapis Lazuli literally translates to
azure stone. Second to Onyx, Lapis Lazuli is a favorite among men. Its deep blue
hue can easily be worn, and has a masculine deep shade. Most Lapis Lazuli come
from Afghanistan, and because of the stone's popularity, there are many
imitations or dyed stones out there; so be very careful as to the origin of the
stone, and be sure to ask for a certificate of authenticity.
Traditional Theme: Pottery / Willow
Weeping willows are some of the most romantic trees to engrave your love onto.
Usually close to water, a symbol of life, these trees can blossom most anywhere.
If you prefer the timeless factor, opt for a fairy-tale picnic at the foot of a
willow oak -- symbolizing romance and strength.
Modern Themes: Leather
Decidedly, this one will not go away! How about a leatherback or leatherjacket?
It's not what you think. The first is the largest living sea turtle, and the
later a fish of the Balistidae family. Both can be found in tropical waters. So
head out to warm seas and go for a swim.
10th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Diamond jewelry
It is unbelievable that one would have to wait ten years for a diamond. But such
is tradition, and while you may have splurged on THE gem before this milestone
date, 'tis is the time to hit it big. While it is impossible to ask that each
anniversary be marked with a diamond carat -- although it is a nice thought, by
now one would be able to claim a 10ct weight stone -- such an important date as
the ten year mark should be celebrated in style. A one-carat is a must. Diamonds
are especially nice because they can be worn easily both by men and women.
Perhaps an up-graded pair of wedding bands with diamonds would do justice to
your ongoing commitment to one another.
Traditional Theme: Tin
Remember the Tin Man who found that he indeed had a heart? Well, this is one
explanation for this traditional theme. Another would be the meaning derived
from the properties of tin -- a malleable metal often used in coating to help
prevent corrosion. After all, 10 years together definitely shows strength, lack
of corrosion and most surely malleability.
Modern Themes: Aluminum / Diamond
Forget Aluminum. Stick to diamonds.
11th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Turquoise
Very important to the Egyptians and Aztecs, in the US, Turquoise has mostly been
associated with Native American Folk Art, and thus has seen its popularity go
through many ups-and-downs. Yet, connoisseurs have always associated Turquoise
to skillful jewelry artisanry and other decorative arts -- much like Amber and
Ivory were used. While most of us think of Arizona as the main producer of this
gem, experts look to Persia -- today, mostly Iran and Turkey -- for high quality
Turquoise gems.
Traditional Theme: Steel
While the industry continuously strives to innovate, steel is rarely used in
jewelry because most stones cannot be set in steel. With new techniques such as
"tension" and the setting of diamonds on watch bezels, it is nowadays possible
to find this timeless, resistant metal in fine jewelry making. However, it is
still a novelty and precious metals such as gold are the preferred method of
setting fine jewelry.
Modern Themes: Steel / Jewelry
Congratulations! You're above the ten-year mark. A lot has happened in ten years
but some things never change. Now would be a good time for a major overhaul,
after all not all things are made of steel. It may even be time for a new car.
One that can travel the road with you and your loved one on another ten-year
journey.
12th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Jade
Although the beauty of Jade is reason enough to wear it, most revere its healing
and mystical powers. Today, Jade is worn as mush as an amulet as fine jewelry.
Its wearers believe in its protective properties and capacity to bring good
health and luck. The royal gemstone of China, Jade has a steel-like toughness
often associated with the Gods. Nowadays, the most sought after Jade comes from
Burma -- today known as Myanmar.
Traditional Theme: Silk / Linen
If your loved one appears jaded, it's a good sign. It means you've done a
fantastic job during the past eleventh anniversaries. One of the reasons Jade is
so popular is because of its deep translucent green color. Green is the color of
hope -- and of the almighty greenback -- so compliment her new Jade talisman
with a set of deep green, silk satin sheets.
Modern Themes: Silk / Linen / Pearl
Pearl and Jade are often associated with Asia, where the most beautiful specimen
can be found, and where they are most revered and regarded as infinite treasures
of beauty and well-being. It is also in Asia that the most sensual silks can be
found. So grab your passports and head-off to the Bay of Along to loose
yourselves in this legendary sea of Jade.
13th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Citrine
A bolt of energy and light, Citrine ranges in color from lemon-yellow to
amber-brown; perfect colors for anyone. Citrine jewelry is especially popular
for the flattering glow it casts on every complexion. A member of the quartz
family, Citrine symbolizes truth and integrity.
Traditional Theme: Lace
How romantic and feminine! Real lace is actually very hard to find and can fetch
astronomical prices. The most famous lace comes from Calais, France; Florence,
Italy; and Vienna, Austria. For a couple of years now, it seems that knitting is
back in fashion. So, grab some needles and make your own gift.
Modern Themes: Lace / Fur / Textiles
A fur can be a very controversial gift, thus making it difficult to know if
you're doing the right thing. By now, you know if your loved-one would rather go
naked than to wear fur, as the famous ETA saying goes. The problem is that
buying fur is as complicated as buying jewelry, so we recommend you stick with
jewelry, since you've become an expert. Also, while Alaskan and Canadian men may
wear fur to combat the brutal cold of their native land, you rarely see it on
any other man. The only other option that could work is a lovely furry bedspread
that you can both enjoy at the same time.
14th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Opal
The most dramatic looking of all gemstones, Opal is known for its dazzling,
fiery combination of colors. The unique formation of tiny spheres that make up
each Opal creates this magnificent play of colors. Opal is a symbol of hope and
inspiration.
Traditional Theme: Ivory
Ivory is certainly beautiful but, unfortunately, it is also illegal. Since 1989,
both African and Asian elephants are protected against poachers looking for
their tusks -- since the 1970s, aggressive poaching put these extraordinary
animals on the endangered species list (CITES). Only older pieces can now be
found mostly in antique shops or museums. If you own heirlooms made of Ivory, be
careful when traveling internationally as the customs of different nations may
be authorized to seize them.
Modern Themes: Ivory / Gold
While Ivory jewelry is a thing of the past, the combination of ivory and gold
make wonderful colors for a themed party or celebration. Also both call to
foreign lands like the Ivory Coast or the Gold Coast. Take a trip to the later,
named for the large quantities of gold formerly found in the area and brought to
the coast for sale.
15th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Ruby
Prized by kings throughout the ages, the precious Ruby is a rare gem. An
extremely durable stone, Ruby is loved for its luscious berry-red hues, and is a
symbol of happiness and good fortune. Even today, Ruby enjoys a ratio of 2.1
when compared to the price of diamonds.
Traditional Theme: Crystal
Crystal is very pure and is one of the most popular gifts on wedding registries.
The problem is that by now, you have probably accumulated enough crystal bowls,
vases, glasses, flutes, and plates to last you a lifetime. Instead, try some
beautiful mouth-blown crystal jewelry. A lot of designers and venerable luxury
houses have launched accessory collections using this amazing material.
Modern Themes: Glass / Watches
Watches tell time. Time spent apart and time captured together. Nowadays, it is
very common to find watches with adornments such as diamond bezels, ruby
cabochons, mother of pearl dials, gold or baguette markers, etc. Dials are a
beautiful way to send a personal message with special engraving.
16th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Peridot
Peridot is French for "gem." Ranging in color from light yellow-green to
deep-olive, the versatile Peridot is often referred to as the "Evening Emerald."
Admired for its sunlit glow, Peridot symbolizes warmth and charity.
17th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Watches
Watches tell time. Time spent apart and time captured together. Nowadays, it is
very common to find watches with adornments such as diamond bezels, ruby
cabochons, mother of pearl dials, gold or baguette markers, etc. Dials are a
beautiful way to send a personal message with special engraving.
18th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl
When visiting a fine Japanese jewelry store, Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl will most
likely be the highlight of the men's jewelry showcase. The gem's almost
exclusive identification with men, and the Japanese's passion for it are a
mystery. Perhaps it's its translucent honey, milky color. Or it could be the
mysterious slit of reflected white light that intersects the stone lengthwise
when cut in cabochon form.
19th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Aquamarine
Beloved for its cool serene ice blue hues, Aquamarine retains excellent clarity.
In ancient times, this gem was thought to be capable of preserving youth and
health. Aquamarine is commonly thought to symbolize peace and tranquility.
20th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Emerald
Beloved by Venus, Roman Goddess of love and beauty, Emerald is one of the most
prized gemstones. Precious in every way, Emerald has a rich spring-green color
that symbolizes growth and fertility.
Traditional Theme: China
Like Crystal, you probably own enough of it by now, that you've started giving
it away to your children who are getting married. So on this twentieth
anniversary, why not take a long-needed trip. One that will stay with you for
many years to come. The land of China holds many treasures and is an exotic
destination. Or you could take a trip to France in the region of Limoges to see
what the big fuss about China is all about.
Modern Themes: China / Platinum
Platinum is the other precious metal. Unlike gold, it doesn't need any alloys
when made into a jewelry item. Gold at its purest (24K) is too soft for jewelry,
but platinum can be used directly as Mother Nature made it. However, it is still
very pricey because it is not as abundant as gold, and it doesn't come in the
form of nuggets. It is the small particles that are found in the rock that need
to be extracted. You sometimes need several tones of rock to produce one single
piece of jewelry.
21st Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Iolite
With the high prices of Sapphire and the rising ones of Tanzanite, Iolite is
fast becoming the preferred stone amongst collectors looking for a new
affordable blue gem. Greek for violet, Iolite is commonly known as the "water
sapphire." Like its fellow blue-bloods, Sapphire and Tanzanite, Iolite transmits
light differently when viewed from different angles. By observing the sky
through Iolite, Viking navigators were able to locate the exact position of the
sun on overcast days. Where, you might ask, did these famous seamen get Iolite?
Well, it's been found in, among other Viking haunts, Greenland and Norway.
22nd Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Spinel
Spinel occurs in almost every color, and creates gems of all colors. It is not a
well-known gem, although a good specimen can attain a very high price. Bright
red Spinel, known as Ruby Spinel, is the most valuable. In the past, there was
no distinction between Ruby and Ruby Spinel, as they look identical and are
found in the same localities. Nowadays, distinctions can be made through
hardness and x-ray tests. Many famous old "Rubies" were found to be Spinel. The
enormous "Ruby" that forms the centerpiece of the royal crown of Great Britain
(the Black Prince's Ruby) was recently discovered to be a Spinel.
23rd Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Imperial Topaz
Topaz naturally comes in several colors, Gold Topaz, Imperial Topaz, Blue Topaz,
and Smoky Topaz. Imperial and Gold Topaz are used for prosperity. Topaz is a
stone that has been worn and revered for centuries; it is a stone of popes and
leaders. Though it works best alone, it does well with Diamonds, and has been
combined with Tiger's Eye in many prosperity rituals.
24th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Tanzanite
As jewelry designers learned to love Tanzanite, this gem has begun to be
appreciated for itself rather than as a Sapphire substitute. This isn't to say
that the old connoisseur color ideal for this gem, a Kashmir blue, has been
abandoned. But now there is greater admiration for Tanzanite that doesn't mimic
Sapphire as well. Violetish or periwinkle-blue Tanzanite now receives almost as
much praise as pure blue ones.
25th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Emerald
Beloved by Venus, Roman Goddess of love and beauty, Emerald is one of the most
prized gemstones. Precious in every way, Emerald has a rich spring-green color
that symbolizes growth and fertility.
Traditional Theme: Silver
Silver owes its name to ancient alchemists who called it Luna or Diana after the
Goddess of the Moon. Silver conducts heat and electricity better than any other
metal, and with the exception of gold, is the most malleable of all natural
metals. It has been used as an adornment and coinage metal since ancient times.
Silver is usually alloyed with small amounts of other metals to make it harder
and more durable.
Modern Themes: Silver
Anything silver will look great for a party or a celebration. This metal has
become very available in everything from jewelry, tableware, silverware,
decorative arts, etc. Unlike Platinum, silver is a lot more affordable, and is
as popular as it is accessible. While Silver is commonly used with semi-precious
stones, it is never the metal of choice for fine jewelry and the setting of
precious stones.
30th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Pearl Jubilee
A symbol of purity, Aphrodite, Goddess of Love, considered the pearl to be
sacred. A wonderful treasure of the sea, the pearl comes to life embedded in the
finest oysters. Throughout the ages, pearl divers who could dive up to 72 feet
were the subject of many stories and legends.
Traditional Theme: Pearl / CloisonnÔ
Originating in Beijing, China, CloisonnÔ is enamelware, which requires bronze
and porcelain-working skills as well as traditional painting and etching, making
it the pinnacle of traditional Chinese handicraft. CloisonnÔ is used in home
dÔcor, and young women love bracelets and earrings, which make great gifts.
Modern Themes: Pearl
See Pearl Jubilee
35th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Emerald
Beloved by Venus, the Roman Goddess of love and beauty, Emerald is one of the
most prized gemstones. Precious in every way, Emerald has a rich spring-green
color that symbolizes growth and fertility.
Traditional Theme: Coral
Coral is among the most ancient of gem materials, used for adornment since
prehistoric times. Coral inlays and ornaments have been found in Celtic tombs
from the Iron Age; it is one of the seven treasures in Buddhist scriptures; and
Tibetan Lamas use coral rosaries. Coral was long thought to be a powerful
talisman that could stop bleeding, protect from evil spirits, and ward off
hurricanes.
Modern Themes: Coral / Jade
Most coral is found in the Mediterranean Sea or in the Pacific off Japan and
Taiwan. When you say the word Coral, most people think of the coral reefs in the
South Pacific like the Great Barrier Reef off Australia. However, these coral
reefs are formed by a different species than the coral traditionally used in
jewelry Corallium rubrum and Corallium japonicum.
40th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Ruby
Prized by kings throughout the ages, the precious Ruby is a rare gem. An
extremely durable stone, Ruby is loved for its luscious berry-red hues and is a
symbol of happiness and good fortune.
Traditional Theme: Ruby / Garnet
The Egyptian Goddess Isis adored garnets, and they symbolize faith, truth, and
friendship. Isis being the Goddess of fertility, it is a good sign that after 40
years, your relationship has been fertile in more ways than one.
Modern Themes: Ruby
See above
45th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Sapphire
The most popular precious stone, Sapphire is known for its brilliance and
durability. Although it occurs in every color except red, the stone is best
known and loved for its deep celestial blue hue. Sapphire is a symbol of faith
and goodness.
Traditional Theme: Sapphire
See above
Modern Themes: Sapphire
See above
50th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Golden Jubilee
Always a sure value, yellow gold is the most precious material. Complement your
treasure chest with chains and slides that can easily work with any pendant or
neck styles. A special gift would be a necklace made of 50 gold chains all in
variable length that your loved one can easily wear day after day, and from
day-to-evening.
Traditional Theme: Gold
See above
Modern Themes: Gold
See above
55th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Alexandrite
A fascinating gemstone, Alexandrite actually changes color from green in
daylight to red in incandescent light. Alexandrite has a distinguished and
glamorous past: it was discovered in 1830 in Czarist Russia. Since the Old
Russian imperial colors are red and green, it was named after Czar Alexander II
on the occasion of his coming of age. Red and green are also the colors of
wedding gowns for South Korean and Chinese brides. When evaluating Alexandrite,
mostly pay attention to the color change: the more dramatic and complete the
shift from red to green, without the bleeding through of brown from one color to
the next, the more rare and valuable the stone. The other important value
factors are the attractiveness of the two colors -- the more intense the better
-- the clarity, and the cutting quality. Because of the rarity of this gemstone,
large sizes command very high premiums.
Traditional Theme: Emerald
Beloved by Venus, the Roman Goddess of love and beauty, Emerald is one of the
most prized gemstones. Precious in every way, Emerald has a rich spring-green
color that symbolizes growth and fertility.
Modern Themes: Emerald / Turquoise
Very important to the Egyptians and Aztecs, in the US, Turquoise has mostly been
associated with Native American Folk Art, and thus has seen its popularity go
through many ups-and-downs. Yet, connoisseurs have always associated Turquoise
to skillful jewelry artisanry and other decorative arts -- much like Amber and
Ivory were used. While most of us think of Arizona as the main producer of this
gem, experts look to Persia -- today, mostly Iran and Turkey -- for high quality
Turquoise gems.
60th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Diamond
Diamonds are a worldwide symbol of love, and the most brilliant gemstone. The
ancient Greeks believed that they were splinters of stars that had fallen to
Earth. Diamond jewelry is universally treasured as a symbol of everlasting love
and perfection.
Traditional Theme: Diamond Jubilee
See above
Modern Themes: Diamond / Gold
See above
70th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Sapphire
The most popular precious stone, Sapphire is known for its brilliance and
durability. Although it occurs in every color except red, the stone is best
known and loved for its deep celestial blue hue. Sapphire is a symbol of faith
and goodness.
Traditional Theme: Sapphire Jubilee
See above
Modern Themes: Sapphire
See above
75th Wedding Anniversary
Anniversary Stone: Diamond
Diamonds are a worldwide symbol of love, and the most brilliant gemstone. The
ancient Greeks believed that they were splinters of stars that had fallen to
Earth. Diamond jewelry is universally treasured as a symbol of everlasting love
and perfection.
Traditional Theme: Diamond
See above
Modern Themes: Diamond / Gold
See above