If you’re about to celebrate your 35th wedding anniversary, you must be over the moon. To spend 35 years with the love of your life is an amazing achievement which not all couples get to celebrate, so you’re super lucky. Plus, it’s a testament to the work and commitment you’ve put into your marriage over the years, and you totally deserve to celebrate in style.
As part of how you mark your 35th anniversary, you might be excited to give your other half a gift. It’s been 10 years since you celebrated your silver wedding anniversary, when you may have given your partner the traditional gift at the time, which was (as the name suggests) silver. But, did you know that your 35th anniversary also has a name and theme in a similar way?
Your 35th anniversary is also known as your coral anniversary, so coral naturally plays a super important role in the gifts. But, there’s also a modern gift you might want to consider, as well as a traditional flower and gemstone. That means, if you want to give your partner a gift jam-packed with meaning, which couples have been giving to each other for over a century, you have plenty to choose from.
In this article, we’re going to take a look at all the different 35th anniversary gift-giving traditions and let you know all about what they mean. We’ll also give you 50 gift suggestions to give you a head start on ideas for what you might want to give the love of your life in honour of the occasion.
For more details on the anniversary gift-giving traditions from 1 year through to 90, read our complete year-by-year wedding anniversary gift guide.
What are traditional and modern gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary?
The traditional 35th anniversary gift goes back to the Victorian era, while the modern gift dates back to the early 20th century. There’s no right or wrong answer about what type of gift to give – only what’s right for you. Each of the themes is filled with symbolism and meaning, which can take a gift and elevate it to the next level and let your partner know just how much you love them.
Traditional 35th anniversary gift – Coral
The traditional gift to give when celebrating 35 years of marriage is coral. Coral is a gemstone usually found in the Mediterranean and Pacific. It symbolises long life and success, so perfect when marking 35 amazing years. Coral gemstones are actually the same as the coral you find in the ocean, but have been polished to give them that typical shiny, gemstone-like appearance.
Coral is also, of course, a gorgeous orange-pink colour, so there are a lot of different ways you can interpret and have fun with the theme.
Modern 35th anniversary gift – Jade
The modern 35th wedding anniversary gift is jade. Jade is another type of gemstone, which usually comes in various shades of green. Many believe jade has fantastic healing benefits, and it’s often used for meditation.
When it comes to your anniversary, jade also symbolises love, wisdom and the future, so it has loads of great positive meaning on top of looking fabulous.
35th anniversary gemstone – Emerald
The traditional 35th anniversary gemstone is emerald, an absolutely jaw-dropping gemstone. It’s usually a vivid green, but can occasionally have a touch of blue in it as well. Emeralds are a precious gemstone, which means they’re both highly desirable and occasionally rather expensive, but you can still find emerald jewellery that doesn’t break the bank.
Emerald symbolises loyalty, peace and security, and is a wonderful addition to jewellery and accessories.
35th anniversary flower – Coral rose
The traditional 35th wedding anniversary flower is coral rose. Roses were previously the traditional flower associated with your 15th anniversary and 24th anniversary, but for the first time, it’s a specific colour. This links the rose to the traditional theme, and coral roses really are beautiful. They represent excitement and desire, which is spot on when celebrating 35 years together.
How do you choose a gift for a 35th wedding anniversary?
Choosing the right gift to give your partner to mark 35 years together can be a difficult decision. With four themes to choose from (which, of course, you don’t even have to stick to) it can be tricky knowing which one to go for. Here are four things to think about before you start your search for the ideal gift:
- Have you agreed to stick to one of the themes? While there is a lot of choice, three of the themes are gemstones. That means you might struggle to find something more out there, especially if your other half isn’t really into jewellery.
- Do you have a budget in mind? Coral and jade can be relatively affordable, while emerald is expensive, so what you go for depends on your budget.
- Do you want to give your partner a personalised gift? Jewellery set with coral, jade and emerald isn’t often customisable, which may sway your decision if you’re keen to give something personalised.
- Has your partner already asked for something? If so, you might have trouble fitting it into one of the traditional or modern themes.
Is a couple you love about to celebrate 35 years of marriage? It might be your parents, someone in your family or some friends. Whoever it is, if you’re looking for a gift to give them to mark the occasion, you may be wondering whether it’s appropriate for you to give them a gift linked to one of these themes. The answer is a resounding yes! They’ll no doubt love whatever you decide to give them and they’ll appreciate the extra thought that’s gone into your gift, too.
50 ideas for a 35th wedding anniversary gift
35 years is a hugely enviable milestone to reach, and you might be searching for what sort of gift you can give your partner so they know just how much you love them. Well, if you’d like to give them a traditional or modern gift but you’re not quite sure where to start, here are 50 ideas to give you a little inspiration.
10 traditional gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary
The traditional gift to give your partner when you’re celebrating your 35th anniversary is coral. This is a great theme because it gives you loads of different options, from jewellery to something linked to the ocean to attractive peachy-pink shades. Here are 10 gift ideas centred around this versatile theme.
1. A silver coral necklace
Coral is absolutely gorgeous and makes up one of the natural wonders of this world. Its beauty is brilliantly captured in this silver coral necklace, which is unique, eye-catching and just as beautiful as the real thing.
2. A rose gold and coral watch
For a watch that’s stylish, smart and dependable, with a strap linked closely to the traditional theme, you might want to choose a rose gold and coral watch. It’s sleek and modern and perfect no matter your partner’s style.
3. A coral and silver heart locket
The ultimate symbol of love for your 35th anniversary is this coral and silver heart locket, which is bold and gorgeous. When it opens up, there’s room for two photographs so your partner can always keep their memories close to their heart.
4. A coral healing stone bracelet
Many believe coral has mystical healing abilities, and this coral healing stone bracelet is small and dainty and looks great. Even if your partner isn’t particularly spiritual, it’s still a great gift perfectly fitting with the theme.
5. A coral enamel and silver frame
Print out your favourite photograph and frame it in this coral enamel and silver frame, a super unique frame that helps your memories really pop.
6. Coral bookends
If your partner is something of a bookworm and needs a way to keep their books in order, you can’t go wrong with this pair of coral bookends. They make for a great addition to any bookshelf.
7. A coral sculpture
Give your partner a gift that makes a real statement with a coral sculpture. It’s a striking piece of modern art that has great meaning behind it and would be a brilliant addition to a cabinet or shelf.
8. A coral wooden coaster set
For a lovely gift that you can always use and remember your 35th anniversary by, this coral wooden coaster set comes with coasters and placemats that have been protected with oil and wax to make sure they last years and years.
9. A red coral rose quartz lotus symbol orgone pyramid
Give your partner a gift to banish bad feelings and lift their mood. This red coral rose quartz lotus symbol orgone pyramid is said to protect from bad spirits and calm the soul. It also has a striking look and is an amazing conversation starter.
10. A coral ornament
For a gift your partner can display an admire, you might want to consider giving them a coral ornament. A great addition to a desk or sideboard.
10 modern gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary
If you’re looking to give your partner a gift associated with the modern 35th wedding anniversary theme, you’ll want to consider something made from jade. Jade is also a gemstone and has great links to spirituality, so there are plenty of things for you to consider. Here are 10 suggestions for gifts containing jade.
1. A pair of jade cufflinks
The deep greens of jade work really well with polished brass, so this pair of jade cufflinks is ideal if your partner regularly wears a suit. Plus, the jade has flashes of emerald shades, making it a great double-hitter for your 35th anniversary.
2. A jade bangle
Jade bangles are a symbol of good luck and have historically been worn by royalty. These jade bangles are natural and untreated, so if you have the budget they’re an absolutely sensational gift to mark 35 years.
3. A jade pendant
Jade really is an eye-catching gemstone, and it’s often that the bigger and bolder they are, the more beautiful they are too, like with a jade pendant. This one is absolutely gorgeous and comes in loads of different styles and designs.
4. A jade silk tie
Jade isn’t just a stunning gemstone, but a hugely attractive colour, which lends itself well to clothing and accessories. This jade silk tie is smart with its intricate design, and would suit a range of occasions.
5. A jade tree of life
To help fill your home with positive vibes, you could give your partner a jade tree of life. Jade is often used in Feng Shui to encourage purity – plus it looks great!
6. Jade lovebirds
For a gift that’s sweet, on theme and utterly romantic, look no further than this pair of jade lovebirds. There’s oodles of meaning behind them and they’re hand-carved and mounted on a base. Plus, their small size means they make for a lovely minimalistic addition to a shelf.
7. Antique Chinese jade
China is known for having large jade deposits, and the Chinese have made some stunning jade pieces throughout history. That means, there’s a good amount of antique Chinese jade out there, which is often small, intricate and beautiful.
8. A jade hamper
“The Jade” is a luxury hamper filled with 13 gorgeous food items, including seven Great Taste gold medal winners. From sweets and biscuits, to chutneys and olives, treat your partner’s tastebuds with the ultimate jade anniversary hamper.
9. Two peas in a pod engraved jade necklace
Because jade is green, it makes for the perfect gemstone to use in a two peas in a pod engraved necklace, which you can also customise with a personal engraving.
10. A jade skincare set
If you think your partner deserves to be pampered on your anniversary, you can’t go wrong with a jade skincare set. It includes a massage roller, a candle, eye masks, a silk cloth and more.
5 affordable gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary
Your anniversary is a great time for you and your partner to spoil each other. But, what if you don’t have the budget? Or, what if your other half isn’t into gemstones and you don’t want to spend a lot of money on something they might not like? Well, there are budget-friendly alternatives, so you can still take part in the fun and give them a gift linked to the theme. Check them out below.
1. A pair of coral pearl earrings
This pair of coral pearl earrings is 18-carat gold plated and features coral-coloured Swarovski glass pearls. They make for a brilliant low-cost, on-theme gift for your 35th anniversary.
2. A coral keyring
Featuring the image of coral topped with glass cabochon, this silver-plated coral keyring is a great token gift your partner can take with them anywhere.
3. A jade gua sha massage tool
For a quick treat for your partner’s skin, this jade gua sha massage tool is unique and a must-have during those at-home facial routines.
4. A jade worry stone
A jade worry stone is small enough to hold in your hand to help relax you and ease anxiety. It’s also very affordable, so it’s the perfect token gift.
5. An emerald crystal tumbled stone
Not all emeralds are expensive, like this emerald crystal tumbled stone. It promotes friendship, peace and harmony, and is incredibly affordable.
5 DIY gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary
When celebrating their anniversary, a lot of couples love the added gesture of making their partner a gift. It shows even more love, thoughtfulness and dedication, and can also be a lot of fun. The only trouble is, your 35th anniversary is all about the gemstones, which you might think would be tricky to DIY without jewellery-making experience. Well, believe it or not, all you need are some raw gemstones, some wire and a few basic tools to make something super unique. Here are five ideas for DIY 35th wedding anniversary gifts.
1. A DIY wire ring
Rings are small and intricate, but with a little bit of patience, it’s totally possible to make a DIY wire ring that looks fantastic. Check out a video tutorial to see if it’s something you might like to have a go at.
2. DIY wire earrings
Create your partner some earrings featuring the stone of your choice, which will definitely turn a few heads. Plus, you only need a few basic tools to try it out. Watch a video tutorial for everything you need to make a pair for your partner.
3. A DIY wire-wrapped stone pendant
This one is a little more fiddly and requires one or two additional tools, but a DIY wire-wrapped stone pendant is a great gift to make. Watch a video tutorial to see if you’re brave enough to try it yourself.
4. A DIY wire bangle
If your partner loves jewellery that’s big and adventurous, they’re likely to love a DIY wire bangle. It only requires some simple tools, but patience is important as it can be fiddly. Have a watch of this video tutorial for all the steps.
5. Grow your own giant coral flower
Fill your garden or a few pots with coral flowers to symbolise how you feel about your partner. There’s no better way than by growing some Benary’s giant coral flowers, which flower in midsummer when planted in the spring.
5 experience or activity gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary
Your anniversary is all about the two of you, so why not use it as an excuse (as if you even need one!) to spend time doing something new, fun and exciting? Believe it or not, there are also ways to tie an experience into one of the four 35th wedding anniversary themes, so here are five ideas for you to consider.
1. A trip to Australia to see the Great Barrier Reef
We’re starting big with the first idea, and if you have the time and budget, there’s no better place to go that’s associated with coral than the Great Barrier Reef. It’s a breathtaking coral reef which really needs to be seen to be believed.
2. An emerald experience voucher
If you’d like to do something with your other half but aren’t quite sure what, give them an Emerald Experience Voucher and let them choose what you do. It could be anything from a luxurious short break to an amazing animal experience.
3. A trip to the Natural History Museum
Take a trip to London and visit the Natural History Museum, where you can learn all about coral reefs and these incredible ecosystems. Then, while you’re in the capital, why not grab dinner and catch a show while you’re at it?
4. An Emerald Cruise
Emerald gemstones are stunning, but do you know what’s even more stunning? An Emerald Cruise that allows you to see incredible locations around the world. A real treat if you a have the budget for it.
5. A trip to the Sea Life London Aquarium
While London isn’t quite as exotic as the Great Barrier Reef, there are still ways to experience coral in the capital. A trip to Sea Life London Aquarium lets you check out Coral Kingdom and see some incredible species up close.
10 35th anniversary jewellery gifts that contain emerald
The traditional 35th anniversary gemstone (even though the traditional and modern gifts were also gemstones!) is emerald. Emerald is one of the four precious gemstones (along with diamond, sapphire and ruby), and is an intoxicating shade of green that looks incredible in all types of jewellery and accessories. Here are 10 suggestions for what you might want to look out for:
- Earrings
- A ring
- A necklace
- A bracelet
- A broach
- A locket
- A watch
- An anklet
- A hairpin
- Cufflinks
Emeralds can be rather pricey, but because they’re so popular you can usually go to your local jewellers and find a large selection of emerald pieces. At Bridebook, we also work with a huge range of wedding jewellers, so make sure you check them out to find something your partner will love.
5 floral-inspired gifts for a 35th wedding anniversary
If you’d love to give your partner a gift linked to one of the themes but aren’t keen on giving them something with coral, jade or emerald, you could give them the traditional 35th anniversary flower, which is coral rose. Coral is a lovely pastel shade in roses, but still has that big romantic meaning. Here are five ideas for coral rose-related gifts you might want to consider.
1. A bouquet of coral roses
How could we start this list and not include a bouquet of coral roses first? Choose your ideal size and arrangement and watch your partner’s face when you treat them to this ultimate romantic gesture.
2. A coral rose bush
Roses conveniently thrive in UK gardens, so a coral rose bush is a gift that keeps on giving by flowering again year after year.
3. Coral rose earrings
There are no cuter earrings to give your partner to wear whenever you head out on those light summer nights than a pair of coral rose earrings.
4. A coral rose resin ornament
To give your partner a flower that’s guaranteed to never wilt and always look fresh, a coral rose resin ornament is a gift they can hold onto forever.
5. A coral rose pendant
Treat your partner to a coral rose pendant, a lovely piece they can wear to any occasion. It’s available in silver, gold, rose gold and white gold, so they should love it whatever their preference and style.
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Browse other similar articles…
- The Ultimate Wedding Anniversary Gift Guide
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Happy Planning!
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