Gold, Silver and Bronze Anniversaries

When the topic of a milestone anniversary comes up, it will often be associated with a metal that symbolizes a certain number of years together. Get to know the major anniversaries and their traditional metals.

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Bronze Anniversary – 8th Anniversary

According to tradition, bronze is associated with the 8th anniversary. Bronze is a combination of copper (which represents luck) and tin (which represents durability). More modern interpretations of anniversary symbols place bronze at 19 years together, but if you want to stick to tradition, 8 years is what you should adhere to. Bronze can be beautifully polished on plate, a pin, cuff or even as an element incorporated into a ring, necklace or bracelet.

Silver Anniversary – 25th Anniversary

Silver is a revered for its beauty and bright, cool glow. If you plan to give jewelry to commemorate your 25 years, make sure the silver is sterling silver. Pure silver is actually too soft on its own to be used in jewelry, so it has to be combined with other alloys for strength. Like bronze, silver also has an alternative association with a different anniversary - 16 years together. If you consider yourself a nonconformist, you could make your 16th anniversary your silver! Anything from a simple engraved ring to an extravagant necklace can make a special gift for this anniversary.

Gold Anniversary – 50th Anniversary

Gold – the big one! If you've made it 50 years, you deserve nothing less than gold. This tradition was actually established by the Germans in medieval times and still stands today. There are limitless options for gold jewelry, including what type of gold you choose. Yellow, white and rose gold are all perfect choices that apply to this occasion.