30th Anniversary Gift Guide
30 years of marriage is a true accomplishment, and it deserves to be celebrated well. That really puts the pressure on in the gift-giving department, but luckily in this case you can just rely on tradition. Custom dictates that the gift for your 30th anniversary should be pearls, those silky smooth beads that are built by oysters. If you want to give your beloved a pearl anniversary gift that they’ll love, but you’re not sure where to start, Gift Card Granny can provide you with some inspiration to get you on the right track.
What is the Pearl Anniversary?
Pearls are the traditional gift to celebrate 30 years of marriage, customarily given by the husband to the wife to show his continuing dedication to her. They symbolize the enduring strength of your relationship, since pearls are created under high-pressure conditions and can stand up to pretty much anything. If pearls don’t strike your fancy, the modern alternative is diamonds. It has similar symbolic value, so we’ll include a few diamond-based alternatives in our list.
30th Anniversary Gift Ideas for Her
St. Barts Mocha Necklace
Available on American Pearl.
Naturally, there’s going to be plenty of jewelry on this list, but it’ll be a bit more unique than just your classic string of pearls. St. Barts Mocha Necklace with its smooth coffee-colored pearl dances on the line between traditional and modern. Though the pearl is the center of attention, as it should be, the brown leather cord and steel lobster clasp serve to complete the look and create a simple but stylish necklace that can be dressed up or worn casually. And the pearl, like all pearls from American Pearl, is guaranteed to be high-quality, with a AAA luster. However, this quality guarantee also means that this gift would be on the pricey side.
Porcelain Bowls with Pearl Lustre
Available on Etsy.
Perhaps you want a gift that’s a bit more functional than jewelry. These porcelain bowls are glazed with pearl on the inside, while the outside is left unglazed, providing a lovely subtle variation in textures and colors. The smallest is the ideal size for storing your spouse’s wedding ring, and the others can be used to hold all manner of trinkets. Each bowl is handcrafted with love, and the attention to detail really translates in the final product.
Miadora Silver Freshwater Pearl and Diamond Earrings
Available on Overstock.
Stunning pearls earrings are easy enough to find, but this pair is truly special. Combining sterling silver, delicate diamonds, and pearls these earrings are perfect for everyday wear or for special occassions. Even if your spouse isn’t a jewelry expert, they’ll be able to appreciate the beauty in these finely crafted earrings.
Unique Hair Comb
Available at Neiman Marcus.
This hair comb features beautiful Swarovski pearls and crystals and is certain to make a great impression on your partner. Although this comb harkens back to a past era, it also fits right into the vintage look that’s so trendy at the moment. If your spouse has expressed interest in that style, this may just be the perfect gift for her.
30th Anniversary Gift Ideas for Him
Hand Engraved Mother of Pearl Pocketknife
Available on Etsy.
If you’re looking for a pearl gift that’s a little more personalized, look no further. This mother of pearl pocketknife is not just a beautiful reminder of your love, it’s also a high-quality, functional Kershaw knife. If that wasn’t enough, you can also have your spouse’s initials engraved by hand onto the handle, making it a truly unique 30th anniversary gift.
Silver & Mother-of-Pearl Cufflinks & Studs Set
Available at Joseph A Bank.
Whether going out for a night out on the town or enjoying a special occassion, this sophisticated cuff links set is sure to be a gift he'll love. It features a mother-of-pearl centerpiece that is surounded in metal and will be a handsome compliment to any suit he owns.
Men's Diamond-Accent Watch
Available at Macy's.
Rethink men's watch options with this black stainless steel watch by Caravelle. Both modern and sleek, it features a diamond accent on the watch face along with silver-tone dial accents with a water-resistance level of 30 meters.
Men's Black Diamond Ring
Available on Overstock.
If your spouse's wedding band needs an update, consider this Miadora Sterling Silver Men's Black Diamond Ring. It comes highly reated and is available in a variety of sizes. It features 13 black round cut diamonds inside a sterling silver band. It's the perfect blend of simple of chic and will add a touch of style no matter what your spouse is wearing.
Whether you want your gift to thank your partner for putting up with you for 30 years, or promise them 30 years more, these gift suggestions should send you in the right direction. No matter what gift you choose, just make sure that it has a significant meaning to your partner and is something that they can use and enjoy. And, most of all, don’t stress about it! Throughout your years of marriage, you’ve provided your spouse with 30 years of your company and your love. There’s no better gift than that!