24 years is such an amazing milestone in your marriage and a testament to the incredible work you’ve put into your relationship. And we bet that, after spending almost a quarter of a century together, you’re more in love today than ever before. In just one year, the two of you will get to celebrate your silver wedding anniversary, an extra special milestone you’ll only get to celebrate once.
But, while you may have one eye cast on the future, it’s also important that you don’t forget about your upcoming 24th anniversary. Just like with your silver anniversary, there are traditional and modern gifts, as well as a traditional flower and gemstone, so you can make your 24th just as special as your 25th.
The traditional and modern gifts carry important meanings that help you let your partner know exactly how you feel. Many couples like to give these gifts to mark their anniversaries as they can be far more unique than typical anniversary favourites like chocolates and roses… not that there’s anything wrong with those, of course! You don’t need to stick to these gifts, but it’s a lovely way to do something a bit different.
In this article, we’re going to run through all the traditional and modern 24th anniversary gifts, so you know how to choose the best gift for your anniversary. We’ll also give you 50 ideas to give you some inspiration if you like the thought of sticking to one of the themes but you’re not quite sure where to start. It’s the perfect way to make your 24th anniversary one you’ll never forget.
To find out more about all the different anniversary gift-giving traditions, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.
What are traditional and modern gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary?
There are four different traditional and modern gifts associated with your 24th wedding anniversary, meaning you have loads of choices if you’re not quite sure how to treat your other half. These gifts have been given by couples to each other for more than 100 years, and are chock full of symbolism and meaning. With so many options available, you’re bound to be able to find something they’ll love.
Traditional 24th anniversary gift – Opal
The traditional 24th anniversary gift is opal, a beautiful gemstone that comes in a huge range of iridescent colours. Opal represents hope, love and trust, which makes it an absolutely wonderful sentiment for marking 24 years of marriage.
Opal is lovely when set in jewellery and accessories, and because of the different colours, it’s easy to find something that suits your partner’s tastes. It also means that, if you’re keen to give your partner jewellery, you have twice as much choice as other anniversaries, because there’s a traditional gemstone along with opal.
Modern 24th anniversary gift – Musical instrument
The modern 24th anniversary gift is something rather unexpected, but fabulous nonetheless: a musical instrument. This is because music represents the passion and emotion the two of your share, which makes it a unique and exciting theme. Even if your partner has never expressed interest in learning an instrument, there are still plenty of ways you can have fun with it.
24th anniversary gemstone – Tanzanite
If you’d like to give your partner the traditional gemstone for your 24th anniversary, you might want to choose something that contains tanzanite. Tanzanite is a beautiful purplish stone and is said to be even rarer than diamond. That can make it expensive, but you can still find some tanzanite jewellery with a reasonable price tag.
Tanzanite symbolises clarity and tranquillity, which you no doubt feel plenty of after spending 24 happy years with the love of your life.
24th anniversary flower – Lavender
For something more floral, you might want to give your partner the traditional 24th anniversary flower, which is lavender. Lavender is often found in gardens up and down the UK and is easily recognisable thanks to its sweet floral scent. It represents love and healing, so something inspired by lavender makes for a great choice when marking 24 years.
How do you choose a gift for a 24th wedding anniversary?
With so many choices available, it can be tough knowing what’s perfect when choosing a 24th anniversary gift with which to spoil your other half. Two of the gifts are gemstones, one is a common garden flower and one is the rather out-there musical instrument. So, while there might be a lot of choices, they’re not necessarily something you’d typically choose for your other half. Here are a few things to consider when deciding what sort of gift to give:
- Are you set on sticking to the traditional and modern anniversary themes? If so, then you’ll need to have a long, hard think about how you can align one or more of the themes to the sort of thing your partner enjoys.
- Have you agreed on a budget? Gemstones and musical instruments can often be pricey, so try to choose something that means you don’t go over budget.
- Are you interested in giving a personalised gift? If personalisation is important to you, the 24th anniversary gift themes might be a little tricky to personalise.
- Has your partner asked for something in particular? If they have, it might be a challenge to make sure what they’ve asked for aligns with the anniversary themes.
Is a special couple in your life about to celebrate 24 years of marriage? If they are, you might be thinking about whether or not you can join in with the traditional and modern gift-giving themes – well, the answer is yes! These themes aren’t exclusive to the couple, so if you have the perfect gift in mind you should absolutely join in. Not only will they no doubt love your gift, but they’ll also appreciate the extra effort and thought that went into the meaning behind it.
50 ideas for a 24th wedding anniversary gift
It can be a challenge knowing exactly what to give your partner to mark your 24th anniversary, especially as you may already have a few ideas up your sleeve for your silver wedding anniversary next year. Well, if you’re keen to stick to one of the themes but need a few ideas, don’t worry – we’ve got you covered. Below, we’ve got 50 gift selections across all types of budgets and themes, so you can give your other half a gift packed with love and meaning.
10 traditional gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary
If you’d like to give your partner the traditional 24th wedding anniversary gift, you’ll want to give them something that contains opal. Opal is a wonderfully exotic-looking gemstone, which both makes for a fabulous addition to all kinds of jewellery or accessories and often accommodates a wide range of budgets. Here are 10 ideas to get you started on your hunt for the most opulent opal gift.
1. A pair of opal earrings
Thanks to the range of colours it comes in, opal makes for a brilliant gemstone to include in earrings. So, a pair of opal earrings is definitely a great choice, as there’s bound to be something that suits your other half’s preferences. They’re also not too expensive, so are great for smaller budgets.
2. An opal Pandora charm
If your other half has a Pandora charm bracelet, a charm is always going to be a go-to choice of gift for special occasions. But, for an addition to their bracelet that has extra special meaning, an opal Pandora charm is as stunning as it is thoughtful.
3. A pair of opal cufflinks
Does your partner occasionally wear suits and hasn’t had a new set of cufflinks in a while? Then you can’t go wrong with a pair of opal cufflinks, which have an alluring sparkle that helps them really stand out.
4. An opal watch
For a watch that dazzles every time your partner checks the time, an opal watch makes for a unique and eye-catching choice. There are several designs available and it can be worn every day or saved for special occasions.
5. A framed opal heart
For a sweet and thoughtful gesture that can be hung on the wall for all to see, a framed opal heart is the perfect way to tell your other half how you feel on your special day.
6. An opal pendant
Make sure your partner turns some heads with a beautiful opal pendant. This stunning stone is like looking into a portal into another world and can be worn with all kinds of outfits to draw everything together.
7. An opal bracelet
With shimmering opals that look like they could have been plucked from the depths of the ocean, this opal bracelet is absolutely stunning and is sure to go down very well on your anniversary.
8. A beautiful opal ring
Opal isn’t one of the most commonly used stones in rings, but it really should be. This beautiful opal ring is filled with positivity and you can choose from a silver, gold or rose gold band.
9. An opal pen
The pen to top all other pens… this opal pen is absolutely wonderful with a one-of-a-kind design that really makes it stand out. The ultimate in luxury.
10. An opal necklace
Treat your other half to a shimmering iridescent opal necklace, with a polished silver frame that means it can be worn with all different outfits and style choices.
10 modern gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary
The modern gift for celebrating 24 years is a musical instrument. This is possibly one of the most unique gift themes you’ll have encountered in your marriage so far, which can seem a little unusual – especially if your partner doesn’t have a musical bone in their body. But, with a little creativity, it can be a brilliant gift that they’ll love, whether they can play a tune on it or not. Here are 10 suggestions so you can make beautiful music together on your anniversary.
1. An acoustic guitar
Okay, so our first suggestion just has to be an acoustic guitar, one of the most popular musical instruments out there. This is perfect if your partner has always threatened to learn the guitar but never quite got around to it. You could also send them a few links to some online video tutorials to help them get started.
2. Personalised piano bar runner and coaster set
Does your other half enjoy the odd drink at home? Or maybe you even have a home bar so the two of you can spend time entertaining family and friends? If so, then this personalised piano bar runner and coaster set could just be the ideal anniversary gift.
3. Guitar wall art
If your partner loves guitars, then this guitar wall art is stylish and cool, and looks great whether hung on the wall inside the home or outside.
4. A musical violin mug
There’s nothing quite like a novelty mug, and they don’t get much more perfect than this musical violin mug. There are musical notes all over the surface, but where it really stands out is the handle – which is a brilliantly sculpted violin!
5. Electric guitar necklace and earring set
Does your partner play the electric guitar, or have a lot of love for the rock bands of yesteryear? If that’s the case, then this electric guitar necklace and earring set could just be the best anniversary gift they could get this year.
6. A LEGO grand piano
What could be better than spending time with your partner on your anniversary? Well, you could spend time building a LEGO grand piano, which would then make for a great piece to display. LEGO is no longer exclusive to kids!
7. Personalised musician figurine
For something unique and cheesy but 100% on theme, you could give your other half a personalised musician figurine, which features them as a cartoon version of themselves rocking out with a guitar.
8. An antique musical instrument
Does your partner love the thought of owning a musical instrument but not really the thought of playing it? An antique musical instrument might just be what they’re after and can work as a brilliant display piece in your home.
9. Glass of wine music
Add a musical touch to your partner’s evening glass of wine with a glass of wine music glass. There’s a full octave of musical notes in every glass – from D to C as your partner sips. A lovely way to add a touch of fun when sharing a drink.
10. An opal guitar pick
If your partner plays the guitar, we have the perfect gift for you: an opal guitar pick. This gift combines two of the 24th anniversary gift themes, which gives it double the symbolism and meaning.
5 affordable gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary
With your silver wedding anniversary next year, you might not be too keen on the idea of spending a lot of money this year. But, at the same time, you’ll more than likely want to let your partner know how special they are and how much they mean to you. The great news is, you can give your partner an on-theme token gift while making sure you keep your spending low. That way, your gift can have all of the meaning while saving you a bit of cash. It’s a win-win!
1. An Opal Fruits-themed anniversary card
If you plan on giving your partner a card, you could combine it with a creative use of the traditional theme and give them an Opal Fruits-themed anniversary card. Okay, sure, they’re called Starburst now, but it totally counts.
2. A pair of opal stud earrings
Not all opals have to be pricey, so you can still give your partner some cute jewellery on your anniversary. Like with this pair of opal stud earrings, which is available in a selection of different sizes and colours.
3. An opal sleeping cat
For the cat lover in your life, this opal sleeping cat is cute, iridescent and definitely fits the 24th anniversary theme. It’s also pretty affordable, making it a lovely token gift.
4. A custom guitar pick
Whether your partner plays the guitar or not, this custom guitar pick is a thoughtful little keepsake that they’ll definitely want to hold onto forever.
5. Personalised guitar wall art
Combine your partner’s favourite things to create this fabulous piece of personalised guitar wall art. It can be customised in loads of different ways, so it can fit with any taste or decor.
5 DIY gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary
Many couples choose to make each other gifts for their anniversary, whether it’s a meal, a date box or a love letter. But, there are also ways to make DIY gifts that are specifically tied to the 24th anniversary themes, to make them even more considerate. Here are five suggestions below to give you some ideas.
1. A DIY music box
With a DIY music box, you can create unique 15-note masterpieces to feed into it and have them delicately played back. You could either recreate your partner’s favourite piece of music, or create your own music that tells them how much you adore them. It’s sweet and thoughtful.
2. A DIY ukulele
With a DIY ukulele kit, you can put together a fantastic little ukulele, which you’re then free to decorate in any way you see fit.
3. A DIY model piano
To create something truly unique, this DIY model piano kit gives you everything you need to build an adorable little model that looks great on a desk or shelf.
4. A DIY opal dreamcatcher
If you pick up some incredible raw opal, you can create a DIY opal dreamcatcher to make sure your partner always has sweet dreams. With a video tutorial, you can give this one a go yourself without the need for expensive equipment.
5. DIY raw opal jewellery
With some simple jewellery-making tools, some wire and a raw opal, you can make the most incredible DIY raw opal jewellery, to give your partner something truly unique to wear. There are plenty of wire wrapping video tutorials available to help get you started.
5 experience or activity gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary
One of the best gifts you can give on your anniversary is something which lets you and your other half spend time together. This might be going out for dinner or a romantic walk, or you could tie it into one of the 24th anniversary themes. Here are five suggestions for ways you can have a truly memorable anniversary.
1. A musical instrument-making course
There’s no better way to spend time doing something new than by taking part in a musical instrument-making course. In fact, it’s such an unexpected gift, we bet you didn’t even realise it was a thing!
2. A trip to see the London Symphony Orchestra
When musical instruments come together, they’re capable of making something incredible. Spend time with your partner listening to the London Symphony Orchestra, who regularly put on performances across the UK.
3. Musical instrument lessons
For every partner who has always wished they’d given piano or guitar lessons a go, now is the perfect opportunity! Musical instrument lessons are even something the two of you could do together. Just search your local areas for tutors and reach out to see if they’d be happy to give you private lessons.
4. An opal cutting and setting workshop
Opals really are stunning, and they’re the perfect addition to countless types of jewellery. An opal cutting and setting workshop lets you design your very own piece of opal jewellery, so your partner can have a unique piece to call their own which has been made by their own fair hands.
5. A lavender wellbeing experience
The scent and aura of lavender do wonders for creating a calming and soothing atmosphere. So, indulge in a spot of rest and relaxation on your anniversary with a lavender wellbeing experience, to help melt away your partner’s tensions and stress.
10 24th anniversary gifts that contain tanzanite
The traditional 24th anniversary gemstone is tanzanite, a brilliantly violet-shaded gemstone that is super luxurious. Because tanzanite can be exceptionally rare, some jewellery and accessories set with it can be pricey, while others can be more affordable. Here are 10 suggestions for gifts containing the stunning tanzanite:
- Earrings
- A ring
- A necklace
- A bracelet
- A broach
- A locket
- A watch
- An anklet
- A hairpin
- Cufflinks
Because of how beautiful and sought-after it is, tanzanite is often not too difficult to find at jewellers. Both high street chains and independent retailers will usually have a nice selection of tanzanite pieces, which may well suit your budget. At Bridebook, we also work closely with a wide range of jewellers, many of whom have amazing tanzanite jewellery. It’s worth browsing what they offer to see if they have anything your partner would love.
5 floral-inspired gifts for a 24th wedding anniversary
For something with a relaxing scent, the traditional flower for marking 24 years of marriage is lavender. Lavender is a common addition to gardens across the UK, but can also add beautiful purple notes and hints of floral loveliness to bouquets. If your partner would love to receive something linked to lavender, here are five ideas you might want to consider.
1. A dried lavender and acroclinium bunch
Dried lavender looks and smells stunning, and will live a heck of a long time – in fact, it’ll last way beyond even your 25th wedding anniversary. A dried lavender and acroclinium bunch is a lovely little long-lasting gift.
2. A lavender aromatherapy set
Lavender is fantastic for promoting rest and relaxation, so to really spoil your partner, a lavender aromatherapy set will help them switch off, unwind and forget all their troubles for a while.
3. An engraved lavender vase
Lavender looks great in a vase, but it also looks great on a vase. An engraved lavender vase is the perfect gift, which your partner can bring out every time they get flowers. And you get extra brownie points if you give them this vase with a floral arrangement already in it, ideally one which stars lavender,
4. A lavender candle
Create an atmosphere on your anniversary night that’s part relaxing and part romantic with a heavenly lavender botanical candle.
5. A silver lavender pendant
Lavender may smell amazing, but it also looks amazing. It has an iconic look, which translates brilliantly to jewellery, like with this silver lavender pendant. A great choice if your partner loves unique jewellery.
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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
- 23rd Wedding Anniversary Gifts: 50 Anniversary Gift Ideas
Happy Planning!
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