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A What-to-Buy Guide for Anniversary Gifts

In 1937, the American National Retail Jewelers Association compiled a list of traditional materials to incorporate in anniversary gifts. The list is traditional because these are substances that have been used as tokens of appreciation and love throughout time and are still commonly used today. Here are some anniversary gift ideas that have been derived from this nationally recognized list. First the material will be listed. Suggestions for gifts will follow. 1st anniversary gift material: paper – anniversary cards, photo albums, journals, painted artwork, and stationary. 2nd anniversary gift material: cotton or straw - pure cotton clothing from favorite name brand, woven tapestry, monogrammed towels, flannel pajamas, bamboo flowers, potpourri, straw hat and tote (beach), and straw baskets (picnic). 3rd anniversary gift material: leather – jacket, wallet, shoes, briefcase, luggage, planner/organizer, belt, and golf bag. 5th anniversary gift material: wood – jewelry box, cigar box, wall plaques, hand-crafted sculptures, and furniture. 10th anniversary gift material: aluminum or tin – cell phone, wall plaques, jewelry charms, luxury pens, candleholder, paperweight, and picture frame. 15th anniversary gift material: crystal – gemstones, crystal sculptures, vases, bowls, champagne flutes, and name plates 20th anniversary gift material: china – formal and everyday dishes like, plates, cups, teapots, collectible dolls and figurines, and pottery. 25th anniversary gift material: silver – jewelry, ice bucket (with champagne), engraved key ring, silver-plated pens, and silver clock The following anniversary materials are precious metals and gems: the 30th is pearls, the 40th is ruby, the 45th is sapphire, the 50th is gold, the 55th is emerald, the 60th and 75th are diamond. This list should give you an idea of something nice to purchase for your spouse as an anniversary gift. The list does not have to be strictly followed. There are variations of this list and there are completely different lists of materials and objects for anniversary celebrations. There is a contemporary list that allows for the addition of electrical appliances, fashion jewelry and other practical or modern items. There is also a floral list that details the different flowers to give for each anniversary. In addition to that, a gemstone list composed of strictly gemstones is perfect for those who adore jewelry and other ornaments. The main objective is to be sure that you select a gift that expresses your love and appreciation for your significant other. You may not want to follow any of these lists at all and just follow your heart instead.