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Reaching your 21st year of marriage is such a wonderful milestone, and a real testament to the love and devotion you and your partner have for each other.

But when it comes to celebrating your 21st wedding anniversary, you may wonder what sort of gift to give the love of your life. Last year, your 20th wedding anniversary was known as your china anniversary – but what about your 21st?

Well, just like your previous 20 wedding anniversaries, there are also traditional and modern gifts for your 21st. That way, you can give your partner something filled with historical meaning that makes it an extra special gift for an extra special anniversary.

As well as the traditional and modern gifts, there are also a traditional gemstone and flower, each with their own symbolic meaning. Of course, you don’t have to give your partner a gift linked to one of the themes, but it can be a thoughtful gesture that lets your partner know exactly how you feel.

In this article, we’ll explore all the traditional and modern gifts associated with your 21st wedding anniversary. We’ll also give you 50 gift suggestions, to help you on your search for the ideal way to surprise your partner and make your upcoming anniversary one to remember.

To discover more about the different traditions surrounding anniversary gifts from 1 to 90 years,  read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 21st wedding anniversary?

Couples have given traditional and modern 21st anniversary gifts to each other more more than 100 years. The traditional gifts were outlined during the Victorian era, while the modern gifts date back to the start of the 20th century. Each theme is filled with romantic meaning that symbolises the relationship you’ve built over more than two decades. 

Traditional 21st anniversary gift – Brass and nickel

There are two traditional gifts to mark 21 years of marriage: brass and nickel. Both are types of metal but with different compositions.

Brass is an alloy, which is created by mixing copper and zinc. It has a bronze appearance and is exceptionally strong, representing all the good in your marriage.

Nickel is a metal, which is mined in areas such as Indonesia and South Africa and is naturally very durable. It represents strong emotional wellbeing in a marriage, which you likely have plenty of after such a long time with your other half.

Modern 21st anniversary gift – Brass and nickel

The modern 21st anniversary gift is also brass and nickel. This is because, after your 20th anniversary, the major traditional milestones are marked every five years. So, for many anniversaries after 20 years, the traditional and modern gifts are often the same. But, that doesn’t mean you have any less choice – they’re all wonderful themes with lovely meanings, so you shouldn’t have too much trouble finding something your partner will love to be surprised with.

21st anniversary gemstone – Iolite

The traditional 21st anniversary gemstone is iolite, which is also sometimes known as cordierite. Iolite is a gorgeously deep purple stone, with the darker-coloured stones being the rarest and most expensive. Iolites represent wisdom and rebirth, so make for a touching gift for this fantastic milestone in your marriage.

Because iolite is neither a precious stone, nor as commonly used as other stones, you can often find iolite jewellery and accessories for a fairly reasonable price, which is of course nice from a budget perspective!

21st anniversary flower – Iris

The traditional flower for celebrating your 21st wedding anniversary is the iris. Irises are most commonly known for their incredible purple colour (much like the traditional gemstone, iolite), but there are actually more than 250 varieties, coming in colours including white, yellow, pink and orange. Irises represent hope, trust and wisdom, which you likely have plenty of after 21 years of marriage.

How do you choose a gift for a 21st wedding anniversary?

Your 21st anniversary is a wonderful milestone in your marriage, and one that absolutely deserves to be celebrated in whatever way you like. Chances are, you might be keen to give your partner a gift as part of your celebrations. But, after the major milestone of your 20th last year, you might also be puzzling over what to give your other half that can match it.

The traditional and modern 21st anniversary themes are fairly unusual, and not all of them make for obvious choices for gifts. When it comes to finding the perfect present, there are a few things to consider before you make your purchase.

• Are you and your partner keen to give gifts linked to the traditional or modern themes? If so, then you’ll want to find something associated with brass, nickel, iolite or iris, which isn’t always an easy task.
• Do you have a certain budget? Thankfully, after your major milestone last year, the traditional and modern themes to mark 21 years are actually fairly affordable, which may sway your decision.
• Do you want to give your partner a personalised gift? Some types of gifts are easier to personalise than others, which can be trickier than you might expect for gifts linked to the traditional and modern 21st anniversary themes.
• Has your partner asked for something specific? You might want to stick to one of the themes, but has your partner left a few heavy hints or flat-out asked for something in particular?

Do you know a special couple who are about to celebrate their 21st wedding anniversary? If so, you might be looking for a gift and wondering whether or not to give them something associated with one of the themes. Thankfully, there are no official rules when it comes to the traditional or modern themes, so if you want to give them something linked to one of them, then you absolutely should. The couple will definitely appreciate the thought and consideration that’s gone into your lovely gift!

50 ideas for a 21st wedding anniversary gift

With your 21st anniversary coming up, you might wonder what sort of gift to give your other half. Of course, there are plenty of romantic staples: chocolates, flowers and jewellery to name just a few. But, if you want to stick to the 21st anniversary themes, you might be rather stumped about what sort of gift to get. After all, brass and nickel aren’t among the most obviously romantic themes out there.

With a little creativity, there are loads of choices out there so you can give your partner an on-theme gift they’ll definitely love. But where to start? Below, we’ve listed 50 21st wedding anniversary gifts to give you a few ideas and get in your partner’s good books.

20 traditional and modern gifts for a 21st wedding anniversary

Both the traditional and modern gift options for your 21st wedding anniversary are brass or nickel, two very different, but both equally as strong, types of metal. The meaning behind them is lovely, but they’re not exactly the most obvious choice of metals when it comes to choosing a romantic gift. It can be tricky to find something perfect, but by thinking outside the box a little, there’s plenty out there to find. Here are 20 suggestions for anniversary gifts linked to the themes of brass and nickel.

1. Personalised brass cufflinks

Brass looks almost identical to bronze, so lends itself well to jewellery and accessories (even if it isn’t often used in that way). That’s what makes this pair of personalised brass cufflinks so special. They’re not only unique and on-theme, but can also include a customisation to make them truly special.

2. Brass weighing scales

Not many appliances are made using brass, but one that’s been made from this durable metal alloy for a long time is old-fashioned brass weighing scales. If your partner loves to get creative in the kitchen, they’ll get great use out of this real old-school gadget. Just don’t forget the weights!

3. A set of brass coasters

For something small and subtle but definitely thoughtful and closely linked to the theme, a set of brass coasters is a fantastic token gift that also happens to be practical and actually quite reasonably priced.

4. A solid brass forest ring

Brass can be used to make rustic and character-filled, rough-around-the-edges but totally wonderful, pieces of unique jewellery. One particularly fabulous piece is a solid brass forest ring, which is chunky and strong, with a simple but meaningful design carved into the side.

5. A bottle of Brass Neck rum

Why not have a bit of fun with the theme? For every partner who loves a cheeky glass of rum, a bottle of Brass Neck is a delicious Scottish spiced rum that’s just as nice neat as it is with a mixer or as part of a cocktail.

6. An engraved brass plaque

To add a touch of personalisation to literally anything you can think of, an engraved brass plaque is exactly what you need. Add a plaque to a bench, beneath a tree, to the side of the shed… whatever you think your partner would like.

7. An antique brass carriage clock

Carriage clocks aren’t exactly as popular as they once were, but perhaps that’s part of the charm and why they make for such a unique gift today. An antique brass carriage clock can sit proudly on a sideboard or mantlepiece and has plenty of charm and functionality.

8. Gold-plated recycled brass hoop earrings

If your partner loves earrings with a little character, then these gold-plated recycled brass hoop earrings might be right up their alley. Not only are they brass, but they’re also hand-crafted and 21-carat gold-plated.

9. A unique piece of antique brass

Not so much these days, but in the past, brass has been used to make everything from teapots to statues. Browse online antique dealers selling antique brass or your local antique shop to find a piece of the past and give your other half something they’ll never see coming.

10. A brass teardrop pendant

With its wonderfully hypnotic design, this brass teardrop pendant is beautiful and attention-grabbing. If your partner likes their jewellery to be big and bold, then this might be just what you’re after.

11. A nickel moon-gazing hare sculpture

The myth states that the moon-gazing hare brings good fortune, so it’s always lucky if you run into one. That means a nickel moon-gazing hare sculpture has an abundance of special meaning, as well as making for a lovely ornament.

12. A pair of 20p coin cufflinks

A gift that really is unique, but also useful if your partner often wears a suit, is a pair of 20p coin cufflinks. 20p coins are partly made from nickel, which makes them a brilliant talking point when your partner dresses up.

13. A polished nickel photo frame

It may well have been more than 20 years since the two of you tied the knot, but we bet the big day still holds a special place in your heart. Keep your memories fresher than ever by printing off your favourite wedding snap and framing it in a polished nickel photo frame, which is available in a range of sizes. 

14. Nickelback tour tickets

Do you and your other half have great memories of listening to 90s and early 00s rock band Nickelback? If so, you can probably guess where we’re going with this… This is how you remind your partner about those good times – Nickelback tour tickets!

15. A nickel-plated candlestick

Help create a romantic atmosphere on the evening of your anniversary by lighting a candle. But how can you tie that into the traditional and modern theme? With a nickel-plated candlestick, of course.

16. A personalised nickel coin keyring

Nickels are small US coins worth just 5¢, but they also just so happen to contain about 25% nickel. So, a brilliant on-theme gift is a personalised nickel coin keyring, which can contain a small engraving of your choosing.

17. A nickel wall clock

If tiny nickels aren’t likely to be your other half’s thing, why not a giant one? This nickel wall clock is perfect for your partner if they love all things American, and is a great talking piece – as well as functional.

18. A nickel-plated nibbles dish

If you and your partner often entertain or you crack out the snacks during movie night, a nickel-plated nibbles dish might be just what they need. It also has a unique design with a stag head right in the centre.

19. A nickel tree ornament

A nickel tree ornament certainly is attention-grabbing and makes for a great addition to a shelf or sideboard, or as a centrepiece to a table. 

20. An item of antique nickel

While antique brass has a huge range of uses, antique nickel tends to have a smaller but far more practical use. From door knobs to knockers, and locks to  peephole covers, give your partner something they could make great use of.

5 affordable gifts for a 21st wedding anniversary

By today’s standards, brass and nickel aren’t exactly common choices for gifts, and they are relatively inexpensive metals to begin with. But, because they’re not usually a popular choice, you might not want to spend much, especially if you’re only looking to give a token gift or you have a small budget. So, here are five ideas for affordable 21st wedding anniversary gifts so you can still give your partner something filled with loving meaning.

1. A brass anniversary card

If you’re also planning to give your partner a card to mark your anniversary, you could combine that with the traditional and modern theme, with a brass anniversary card. This inexpensive card features a heart made from brass, which you can even personalise with the date of your 21st anniversary.

2. A small brass cat figurine

Is your other half a cat person? If so, we have the purr-fect suggestion: this adorable brass cat figurine can sit looking sweet on a shelf and be a constant little reminder about your 21st anniversary.

3. A lucky nickel sixpence

In the 50s and 60s, sixpence coins contained nickel and were worth – as the name suggests – six pence. Of course, they’re no longer legal currency, but an authentic lucky nickel sixpence is a lovely token gift that has sweet meaning behind it.

4. A personalised brass keyring

For something small, on-theme, personalised and cheap, you might choose to give your partner a personalised brass keyring. This one ticks a lot of boxes, especially if you’re only looking for a token gift to mark the traditional and modern theme.

5. A personalised letter necklace

A unique and affordable piece of jewellery to surprise your partner with, which is totally on theme as it’s made with a copper-nickel alloy, is a personalised letter necklace. It’s big and eye-catching and might be the sort of thing your other half loves to wear.

5 DIY gifts for a 21st wedding anniversary

Some couples like to have a lot of fun around their anniversary by making each other a gift. The trouble is, if you’d also like to link your homemade gift to one of the themes, then brass and nickel aren’t exactly the easiest materials to work with. But, with a little creative thinking, you should be able to make something without the need for special skills or training. Here are five ideas for DIY 21st anniversary gifts.

1. A DIY brass wire bracelet

Brass wire is simple to get hold of and pretty cheap, and you can use it to make plenty of creative gifts. A DIY brass wire bracelet is a great place to start, and there are plenty of tutorials available to help you have a go yourself.

2. DIY brass wire earrings

With a couple of small tools, some brass wire and a few beads, you can make some unique and interesting brass wire earrings. It might sound complicated, but if you follow a video tutorial it will help you with every step.

3. A DIY brass wire figurine

If you’re not quite sure you want to make jewellery out of wire, you might want to try your hand at a DIY brass wire figure. It’s a fun challenge and you can theme it around your partner’s interests. Watch a video tutorial for more information on how to make your own.

4. A DIY nickel coin necklace

Take a nickel coin, a chain and a few tools you might already have at home, and you can create a real one-of-a-kind piece of jewellery with a nickel coin necklace. Find out more about what you need and how to do it with an easy-to-follow jewellery tutorial.

5. A quick and easy DIY coin pin badge

To create a pin badge out of a nickel coin, you don’t need much at all and it makes for a thoughtful and simple token gift for your 21st anniversary. Check out this video tutorial on how you can give it a go.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 21st wedding anniversary

Your anniversary is a great excuse to forget real life for a little while and spend time with your partner doing something new, fun or exciting. With an experience you’re guaranteed to make new memories and make your 21st anniversary one you’re not likely to forget any time soon. But, did you know there are ways to tie this into the traditional and modern themes? Here are five suggestions for things to do on your 21st anniversary.

1. Brass band concert tickets

Brass is a major category of instrument, so one way to link an experience to the traditional and modern theme is by going to see a brass band concert. Even if it’s not something your partner has shown interest in before, it’s a unique way to hang out with your love on your big day.

2. See some historical brass at the British Museum

Throughout history, brass has been used to make everything from armour to statues. Many examples of brass items can be found on display in museums, including the British Museum. You might want to head into the capital to discover these brass items for yourself, or otherwise check out what your local museum has in its collection.

3. Beginner brass lessons

If your other half has ever expressed an interest in wanting to learn an instrument, then why not give them a real surprise with a beginner brass instrument lesson? It could even be something the two of you spend time doing together so you can help each other and offer moral support. Search online to find a brass instrument tutor near you.

4. A trip to the Royal Mint Museum

For your anniversary, you could take a trip to South Wales and visit the Royal Mint Museum, to learn all about the history of currency in the UK. Of course, many coins throughout history were made using nickel and brass.

5. A trip to Clydach in the Swansea Valley

While you’re in South Wales, another option is to head over towards Swansea and the village of Clydach, which is home to a refinery that separates nickel from ore. Okay, so you might not be able to visit the refinery, but Clydach makes for a great base from which to have a fun anniversary trip exploring the area.

10 21st anniversary gifts that contain iolite

The traditional gemstone for celebrating 21 years of marriage is iolite. It’s a real shame that iolite isn’t more popular than it is because, with its rich purples and an almost outer-space-like quality to it, it’s rather intoxicating to look at. This makes iolite a beautiful addition to jewellery or accessories, with the bonus of it usually being very reasonably priced. The only downside is, you might have to do a bit of searching before you find a piece you like. Here are 10 recommendations for pieces to consider that contain iolite:

1. Earrings
2. A ring
3. A necklace
4. A bracelet
5. A broach
6. A locket
7. A watch
8. An anklet
9. A hairpin
10. Cufflinks

Iolite isn’t one of the most commonly used gemstones in the UK, and not all of the high street chains have iolite jewellery in stock. Some do, but a trip around your local shopping centre might be a little frustrating. We’d recommend checking out independent jewellers or browsing the range offered by some of the jewellers here on Bridebook. Finding iolite takes a little longer than other gemstones, but we promise it’s absolutely worth it.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 21st wedding anniversary

If you think your partner might love something with a floral touch for your anniversary, the traditional flower for celebrating 21 years of marriage is the iris. Irises are most commonly associated with purple, and are fan-like flowers with drooping petals. They’re beautiful, eye-catching blooms that are wonderful in any bouquet, and many other gifts use irises for inspiration. Below are five iris-themed gifts you might like to consider.

1. A bouquet of irises

Of course, there’s no way we couldn’t start this list without first suggesting a bouquet of irises. These stunning flowers look great on their own but also work just as well supporting larger floral arrangements.

2. A black iris vase

To ensure your partner has a vase that’s just as beautiful as any flower inside, a black iris vase is an amazing choice. It’s a gift they can use again and again whenever they get a new bouquet.

3. Iris stud earrings

With their distinct open flowers, irises are a wonderful addition to jewellery. If your partner wears earrings, then these beautiful but subtle iris stud earrings are bound to be a great addition to their collection. They can also be worn with a wide range of outfits and on any occasion.

4. A stained glass blue iris

For a floral gift that’s always guaranteed to look just as beautiful as the day you give it to your partner, a stained glass blue iris will look great anywhere and never need to be watered.

5. Iris lolite hoop earrings

A brilliant double-hitter for your 21st anniversary, this pair of iris iolite hoop earrings aren’t only beautiful, but also have twice as much romantic meaning.

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Browse other similar articles…

• The Ultimate Wedding Anniversary Gift Guide
• 1st Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
• 2nd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
• 20th Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas

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Reaching 20 years of marriage is such a fantastic achievement! That’s two whole decades of devotion to the love of your life, and we bet you feel just as strongly – if not more strongly – about your other half as you did the day on which you exchanged your vows. Only now, you’ve built a life and possibly even a family together, and spent many adventures growing closer and closer.

That might be a rather smushy start, but when you’re celebrating 20 years together, it’s totally a time to get a little smushy about your partner!

As part of your celebrations, you may be excited to give your other half a gift. It’s a special anniversary, after all, so now is a great time to spoil them and let them know exactly how much they mean to you.

That might mean getting them something they’ve asked for, or alternatively finding one linked to either the traditional or modern theme associated with your 20th anniversary. It’s not called your china anniversary for nothing.

The traditional and modern gifts – as well as the traditional gemstone and flower – are gifts that stick to a specific theme and have been given by couples to each other for more than 100 years. These gifts have extra symbolic meaning behind them, which makes them a wonderful choice to mark such a fabulous milestone in your marriage. You don’t have to stick to them, but they’re a great place to start when considering a gift for your other half.

In this article, we’re going to explore all the traditional and modern gifts associated with your 20th wedding anniversary and give you 50 suggestions if you want to stick to a theme but you’re not quite sure where to start.

For lots more information on all the different anniversary gift-giving traditions for milestones between 1 and 90 years, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.

What are traditional and modern gifts for a 20th wedding anniversary?

Both the traditional and modern anniversary gifts have been given for more than a century, with the traditional gifts dating back to the Victorian era, and modern gifts to the early 20th century. Whether you stick to either (or both) themes is entirely up to you, but both have romantic meaning behind them which can turn an ordinary gift into an extraordinary one.

Traditional 20th anniversary gift – China

As the name of your 20th anniversary suggests, the traditional gift to give to mark 20 years is china. China is a fragile but luxurious type of pottery used to make everything from tableware to ornaments. It represents the delicate but beautiful nature of your marriage, which you must work hard to protect.

China isn’t as commonly used now as it once was, but it still makes for a fantastic gift. Some types of china can be rather pricey, but there can also be gifts out there to suit a different range of budgets. So, if you love the meaning behind china, you’re likely to find something that suits your other half.

Modern 20th anniversary gift – Platinum

The modern 20th anniversary gift is platinum, a precious metal which is actually more valuable than gold. That means it’s super luxurious, which means it can be rather expensive. Platinum represents endurance, so if it suits your budget then there really isn’t a better gift to sum up two whole decades of marriage.

20th anniversary gemstone – Emerald

The traditional gemstone for celebrating your 20th wedding anniversary is emerald, a dazzlingly green precious stone that represents fortune, balance and peace. Emeralds are really popular, can be fairly easy to find in jewellers, and are often suitable for different budgets. But, some types of emerald can be even rarer than diamonds, which means they can be expensive, so make sure you have a good browse before committing to anything.

20th anniversary flower – Aster

The traditional flower to give to mark your 20th anniversary is the aster, a vibrant open flower which comes in various shades of purple, blue, pink and white. It’s such a happy flower that it makes for a wonderful choice for any happy occasion, and symbolises love and wisdom – two things you no doubt have in spades after 20 years of marriage.

How do you choose a gift for a 20th wedding anniversary?

Your 20th anniversary is definitely a biggie and there’s never a better time to spoil your other half. That means, you might be working hard to think of the perfect gift to spoil them and make sure they feel truly loved.

But with so many great themes to choose from (on top of some old faithfuls your partner would undoubtedly appreciate), how are you supposed to pick a present befitting of such an occasion? Here are a few things to think about when searching for the ideal 20th anniversary gift.

• Are you excited about sticking to either of the 20th anniversary themes? If so, you’ll want to browse for gifts related to china, platinum, emerald or aster, or maybe even a combination of two or more.
• What is your maximum budget? The traditional and modern anniversary themes are quite expensive choices, which may sway your decision. Your 20th anniversary is an important milestone, but don’t let that get in the way of spending more than your budget allows.
• Are you hoping to give a highly personalised gift? Some gifts are more easily personalised than others, and the traditional and modern gifts are often rather tricky to customise.
• What is your other half hoping to receive or have they asked for anything? Your partner might have dropped some heavy hints or even simply asked for something specific, which you may want to focus on even if they have nothing to do with the themes.

Is a lucky couple in your life about to celebrate 20 incredible years of marriage? If so, you might wonder whether you can give them a gift related to the traditional or modern themes and join in on the fun. There are absolutely no set rules when it comes to these gift-giving traditions, and so, of course, if you have the perfect gift in mind, nothing can stop you from giving whatever you like. The couple will no doubt appreciate the gesture and love the extra special meaning behind your generosity!

50 ideas for a 20th wedding anniversary gift

Because your 20th wedding anniversary is fast approaching, you’ve probably been thinking about what to give your partner for a while. You may well have something specific in mind, or you may be close to panic mode because you’re stumped about what sort of gift is befitting of such a huge milestone in your marriage.

That’s why we’re here to offer you 50 20th anniversary gift ideas and make your decision that little bit easier. That way, you can find your partner a wonderful gift to mark your anniversary and let them know exactly how much they mean to you. It’ll also help make your anniversary one they’ll remember forever.

10 traditional gifts for a 20th wedding anniversary

The longest-standing and most traditional gift to give to mark your 20th anniversary is china, an incredibly luxurious, delicate and beautiful form of pottery that has been around for almost 300 years. It has long been a status symbol, and in the past was regularly used by the wealthy when enjoying an afternoon cream tea. It’s not used as regularly today, but still makes for a wonderful gift, and is surprisingly versatile. If you think your partner would love a gift made from china, we have 10 ideas to give you a little inspiration.

1. A bone china tableware set

Wedgwood and china go hand in hand, with this Staffordshire-based pottery manufacturer having been around almost as long as the art of fine china itself. So, what better way to treat your partner than with a Wedgwood fine china tableware set, which you can be confident will be fabulous and of the highest quality?

2. A Fortnum and Mason bone china mug

To bring a touch of elegance and luxury to your partner’s morning cuppa, you really can’t get much better than a Fortnum and Mason bone china mug. This mug has a delicate butterfly design with touches of gold and a signature strip of Eau de Nil.

3. A King Charles III fine bone china trinket box

If your partner is something of a royalist and has jewellery and accessories they need to keep safe, a fantastic choice of gift could be a King Charles III coronation fine bone china trinket box, which has great history and meaning behind it.

4. A fine china teapot

Not all fine china breaks the bank, and even with a smaller budget, you can still pick up something lovely and lavish. A fine china teapot from John Lewis has a stunning tree and stork design to bring a touch of class to tea time, and doesn’t cost as much as you might think.

5. An aster-decorated china plate

Combine the traditional gift of 20 years of marriage with the traditional flower for a real double-hitter with twice as much symbolic meaning. An aster-decorated china plate is a lovely addition to anyone’s china collection, or the perfect way to start one.

6. A bone china vase

Tiffany & Co. are a brand associated with the finer things, and they don’t come much finer than a Tiffany & Co. bone china vase. You’ll also get extra brownie points by giving it to your partner filled with a bouquet of asters!

7. An item of broken china jewellery

Because it’s so delicate, china is prone to breaking if not looked after carefully. However, that doesn’t mean it no longer has its uses. Broken china jewellery is a unique and creative way to repurpose broken china, bringing new life to something that might otherwise have been thrown away.

8. A Buckingham Palace fine bone china Christmas bauble

Another great gift for fans of the royal family, especially if your anniversary lands around the festive season. A Buckingham Palace fine bone china Christmas bauble adds a touch of royalty to your Christmas tree and is an anniversary gift your partner can display every single year.

9. A personalised china jug

China isn’t often personalised, which is why this two pint personalised china jug is such a great choice. It can include a custom date, initials and reading, and can be used as a vase or to serve drinks.

10. A piece of antique china

Many pieces of china are antique, so you could give your partner a piece of the past with an authentic piece of antique china. It’s also worth checking local antique or charity shops to see if they have something in stock that might tickle your partner’s fancy.

10 modern gifts for a 20th wedding anniversary

For a gift with more modern flair, you might want to choose something associated with the modern 20th anniversary theme, which is platinum. Platinum is a luxurious precious metal that is actually worth more in weight than gold, which means it can be incredibly expensive. For example, a platinum watch can cost as much as £300,000. For that reason, we’re not going to include many platinum watches in our list of gift selections, but there are still options available to suit different budgets. Here are 10 suggestions for platinum gifts, which don’t cost quite as much as that…

1. Platinum cufflinks

A major 20th anniversary double-hitter, this pair of platinum emerald cufflinks contain the modern gift and the traditional gemstone, and make a real statement to help tie an outfit together.

2. A dazzling platinum rose

The rose is one of the ultimate symbols of love. If you wanted to give your partner a rose to mark your anniversary but are also keen to stick to one of the themes, you might be torn. But, a dazzling platinum rose is the best of both worlds, with the bonus of not needing to be watered.

3. Platinum emerald earrings

Platinum and emerald is a match made in heaven. That’s why a pair of platinum emerald earrings is absolutely stunning, and definitely a choice that will get you in your other half’s good books.

4. A platinum wall clock

For a smart, modern and deluxe way for your partner to tell the time, a platinum wall clock is big, striking and a constant reminder of your special anniversary.

5. A platinum picture frame

It might have been 20 years since the two of you tied the knot, but we bet the memories of that day are still fresh in your mind. Why not print out your favourite wedding snap and give it to your partner in a platinum picture frame, which has a gloriously unique ripple finish?

6. A personalised platinum and gold LP

Since the two of you got married, you’ve most definitely made some beautiful music together. Celebrate the moment two of you made it to number one with a personalised platinum and gold LP.

7. A platinum watch

There’s something quite special about a platinum watch from Rolex. Yes, they are very pricey, but if you have the budget to splash on an extravagant gift, then why not? They’re stunning and very much on-theme when celebrating your 20th anniversary.

8. A platinum indoor planter

Bring a touch of luxury to your partner’s favourite indoor plant with a platinum indoor planter. It’s handmade with a platinum finish and suitable for everyday use.

9. Chanel ÉGOÏSTE Platinum Eau De Toilette

This one’s all in the name (but also, a little bit in the nose). Chanel ÉGOÏSTE Platinum Eau De Toilette is a strong yet refined male fragrance that your other half can wear if you’re heading out for a romantic meal on your anniversary night. 

10. Vintage platinum jewellery

If your partner loves jewellery with a retro feel, then vintage platinum jewellery should be right up their alley. It can often be pricey, but is always packed with character and beauty. If you’re lucky, you might find a piece containing emeralds so it hits two of the 20th anniversary themes.

5 affordable gifts for a 20th wedding anniversary

China, platinum and emeralds are all stunning gifts to give your partner on your 20th anniversary. The only thing is, they’re often very expensive, which can limit your choices, especially if you have a smaller budget. That said, there are ways to stick to a theme even if you have a certain amount to spend. So, here are five suggestions for affordable 20th wedding anniversary gifts.

1. A bone china jewellery box

If your partner has some jewellery but nowhere to keep it, a bone china jewellery box is small, thoughtful and also kind to your bank balance.

2. Vintage china flowers

Flowers are always an anniversary winner, but if you combine the beauty of flowers with the deep, symbolic meaning of china, you get vintage china flowers which are also unique and affordable.

3. Adorable china teacup jewellery

If your partner likes unique accessories, a dolls house tea cup ring will definitely raise a smile. While not technically made from china, they certainly represent it and are affordable and unique, so why not have some fun with this token gift?

4. A personalised china keepsake

For something small, cute, personalised and affordable, a personalised china keepsake lets you give your partner a great token gift which they can hang somewhere they’ll always see.

5. A puntastic china anniversary card

Combine the theme of your anniversary with an anniversary card, with a funny and puntastic china anniversary card. It’s also pretty cheap and is a cheeky way to stick to the china theme.

5 DIY gifts for a 20th wedding anniversary

Many couples love to make each other gifts for their anniversary, as it shows their love and devotion – and lets them use their creativity and get a little messy.

For many anniversaries, the themes lend themselves well to crafts, but when it comes to china and platinum, it is rather difficult. Difficult, but not impossible. Well, it is still quite impossible to make something from platinum at home unless you happen to live in a jewellers. But, by thinking outside the box, it’s possible to make something out of china – specifically, when it’s broken. Here are five ideas which will hopefully give you some inspiration.

1. DIY broken china jewellery

Broken china needn’t be thrown away, so if you’ve accidentally dropped something or an antique piece sits chipped in a charity shop window, repurpose it into a fabulous piece of DIY broken china jewellery. Check out a DIY broken china jewellery tutorial for all the steps you need to have a go yourself.

2. Upcycle a table using old china

With a couple of broken pieces of china and an old table, you can bring them both together to create an upcycled, one-of-a-kind mosaic table. They look really striking and your other half will never see it coming. There are mosaic china table tutorials available which tell you how to get started.

3. A broken china mosaic

Broken china can also be arranged into an original piece of art, so even if a piece of china is broken, it can live on and still be beautiful. Watch a video tutorial to see if it’s something you might want to try.

4. A broken china picture frame

Do you have an old picture frame crammed in a draw somewhere, not feeling the love? Use it as a starting point and upcycle it into a broken china picture frame. There are online broken china tutorials available which give you all the information you might need on how to get started.

5. A china teacup bird feeder

With just an old china cup and saucer, you can quickly and easily create a unique china teacup bird feeder your partner can hang in the garden. A super charming and thoughtful gift, which is quite simple if you follow a video tutorial.

5 experience or activity gifts for a 20th wedding anniversary

One amazing gift you might consider giving to mark your 20th wedding anniversary is one where the two of you get to spend time together doing something new, exciting or relaxing. An experience or activity is a great way to make more memories and make an amazing anniversary even more memorable. Here are five ideas for how the two of you can spend time on the big day.

1. A china and porcelain painting course

Painting china is a real art form and one that not many people have nowadays. Spend time with your partner learning this dying skill and enjoy a china and porcelain painting course. You also get to take home your original creations to display forever.

2. A Wedgewood factory tour

Wedgwood is one of the most famous pottery manufacturers in the UK and is known for their range of amazing products. See how the experts do it with a Wedgwood factory tour located in Stoke-on-Trent.

3. A platinum supercar experience

If your partner loves to drive fast and dreams of owning a sports car, a platinum supercar gift voucher lets them go for it and put the pedal to the metal.

4. A platinum carnivore experience

For a roaring good time on your anniversary, head to Yorkshire Wildlife Park in Doncaster and take part in a platinum carnivore experience. Get hands-on with some big cats and make your other half purr with delight! 

5. A platinum B&B experience

For a special night away, a platinum B&B experience gives you everything you need. A romantic escape, a fine dinner, a luxury bed… what else could you possibly need?

10 20th anniversary gifts that contain emerald

The traditional gemstone to give on your 20th anniversary is emerald, which is gloriously green and one of the four precious gemstones. Some emeralds are relatively common so can be quite affordable, whereas others are incredibly rare and can be even more expensive than diamond. A lovely gesture if it fits your budget! If you choose to spoil your partner with emeralds, you really can’t go wrong, as they’re also incredibly versatile. Here are 10 ideas for jewellery and accessories you can give to your partner to mark 20 years of marriage.

1. Earrings
2. A ring
3. A necklace
4. A bracelet
5. A broach
6. A locket
7. A watch
8. An anklet
9. A hairpin
10. Cufflinks

Because emeralds are so popular, you usually don’t have to go too far to find a range of pieces in either a high street or independent jeweller. It can be a little pricey though, so you might need to do some search to find something your partner will love which suits your budget. Here at Bridebook, we also work closely with loads of brilliant jewellers, so have a browse to see what kind of emerald jewellery they have in store.

5 floral-inspired gifts for a 20th wedding anniversary

If your partner loves their gift to include a touch of flora, then you might want to consider giving them something linked to the traditional 20th anniversary flower, which is aster. Asters are gorgeous open blooms which come in a range of colours and can brighten up any room. They’re the quintessential flower and the perfect addition to any bouquet. Here are five ideas for gifts containing aster.

1. An aster bouquet

Asters are glorious and full of life. It’s impossible not to smile when given a bouquet of asters, and there’s never been a more appropriate time to surprise your partner with a colourful floral arrangement.

2. An aster pendant necklace

Asters lend themselves perfectly to jewellery and accessories, including this blue aster pendant necklace. It’s bold enough that it stands out but subtle enough that it goes with loads of different styles and outfits.

3. Vincent Van Gogh Vase with Gladioli and China asters print

Vincent Van Gogh is one of the most famous painters to have ever lived, with one of his notable pieces being the iconic sunflowers. A slightly lesser-known piece of his, but still just as stunning, is Vase with Gladioli and China asters, and a framed print would be a great gift to hang on any wall.

4. An aster water bottle

If your partner regularly hits the gym or takes a bottle with them to work, an aster water bottle is probably going to be right up their street.

5. An engraved aster vase

Asters don’t just look great in a vase, but on one too. An engraved aster vase is the sort of gift your partner will get use of again and again.

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Browse other similar articles…

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Happy Planning!