Every Anniversary Should Be Golden.
The Most Beautiful Gifts for Her.

Published on 15 September 2022

If the list of traditional wedding anniversary gifts is to be adhered to, then apparently wedded couples need to wait five decades before they are in the realm of a precious metal – for the famous 50th ‘Golden’ anniversary. It’s also 40 years before the ruby wedding anniversary, 45 before sapphire and, then finally, 60 years before diamond. The years prior see mediums like wax, candy, even flowers stalk the list – all adequate…if perhaps a little unremarkable. So, why must we wait so long for the good stuff?

Perhaps this traditional gift list was devised by a desperately clueless, and particularly Scroogey, husband of the 17th century. A man aimlessly wandering cobblestone markets the day before his anniversary unable to decide between a new quill-and-ink set or another bottle of musk water for his betrothed. After haggling with every stall holder and witch doctor in the area he likely found himself concocting a set of guidelines. He knew he couldn’t wing it in the apothecary 50% off sale much longer so sought to instil a genre point, one that meant he could no longer be outdone by the more generous husbands in the village. So, alas, he pulled up a desk (asked William S. to shuffle over) and rolled out a scroll. And, it was here that this husband of yore began listing gift wear commodities as he saw fit. Paper, fibre, leather, flowers, wood, candy, copper, bronze, pottery and aluminium would set the tone for the first 10 years, respectively. Then, very probably intentionally, he allocated the most exquisite and valuable for anniversaries that were less likely to be seen than a deathly bout of plague or a fever a la Scarlet. Because how else do you explain withholding from such pertinent treasures until so many years down the track?

If the list had been written by a woman, in any era, it would have simply said: Jewellery. Always jewellery.

Of course, the list was more likely designed to bestow the best to those who’ve weathered the storms of a lifetime together. After raising kids, living together for multiple decades and tolerating the other’s snoring, crunching and penchant for leaving pantry doors open, they deserve a sparkle or two. Yet, although this makes sense, surely the priorities are in reverse? Should not the best gifts be given before forever happens? Impressive, thoughtful keepsakes delivered while you’re running after toddlers or while in the thick of your career. Not after. Additionally, with a majority of people getting married in their mid-30s these days, most of us will be at least 95 before we can finally clasp that dream bracelet around our wrist.

This year my husband and I will celebrate our ten-year anniversary. According to the list, the gift should be aluminium. And while nothing says romance like a new laptop, or some sweet new bicycle parts, I do hope he’ll take heed of this article.

So, rip up the rule book and follow your instinct to give her a breathtaking piece of jewellery no matter what tradition says. Because each and every year should be celebrated, and special jewellery should be worn for a lifetime.

Here are some pieces she’ll still be in love with fifty years down the track…in addition to you, hopefully.

Suzanne Kalan ‘Fireworks’ Yellow Gold Shimmer Stud Earrings

These sublime baguette earrings are beautifully chic. Designed using 18K yellow gold and round white diamonds they make for a gift both timeless and stylish.

Roberto Coin ‘Art Deco’ Malachite Earrings

For something truly unique, these Art Deco-inspired earrings are a masterpiece. Petite and perfect in 18K rose gold they are set with malachite, diamonds and rubies.

Graff ‘Wild Flower’ Diamond Bracelet

A delicate white gold bracelet featuring the evergreen charm of three exquisite diamond flowers, this is a piece to keep for generations.

Pomellato Nudo Deep Blue Petit Blue Topaz Ring

As part of the Italian jeweller’s iconic Nudo range, this beautiful forever ring features a spectacular Topaz stone above 36 diamonds and a band of 18K rose and white gold.

Qeelin Petite Double Wulu Necklace

In China, Wulu has been a motif of good fortune and positive energy for thousands of years. Additionally, this pretty, interlocking pendant in 18K rose gold with diamonds is also the perfect symbol of everlasting unity.