The Best 40th Anniversary Gifts to Spoil Longtime Loves

Reaching four decades of marriage is a truly incredible achievement that deserves to be celebrated in style. If you and your partner (or a couple you know) are approaching this special milestone, you're probably on the lookout for a thoughtful 40th anniversary gift. Not sure how to shop for such a momentous occasion? To help you get started, we've compiled a list of the best 40-year anniversary gifts for friends, family or your beloved spouse. From elegant jewelry and romantic bouquets to sentimental wall art and thoughtful mementos, our round-up includes traditional anniversary gifts and unique offerings for any spouse or couple.

Ready to treat your loved ones to something special? Shop our top-rated 40th wedding anniversary gifts below.

In this article:

• Traditional 40th Wedding Anniversary Gifts
• Unique 40th Wedding Anniversary Gifts

Traditional 40th Wedding Anniversary Gifts

The traditional 40th anniversary symbol is the ruby, a deep red gemstone that symbolizes passion, loyalty and devotion. Giving ruby anniversary gifts to your spouse or a married couple is a thoughtful way to acknowledge all the years they have dedicated to building a successful relationship. While fancy jewelry is probably the first idea that springs to mind, there are many other ways to incorporate the ruby anniversary theme into your gift. You can take inspiration from the 40th anniversary color—ruby red—to stay on theme if opulent gems aren't suitable for your partner or favorite duo. Whatever your approach, these 40th wedding anniversary ideas will get you one step closer to finding the perfect gift.

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Symbolic Tree Sculpture

Photo: KouinGemTrees

If you're shopping for a special couple (like your parents or grandparents), you can't go wrong with a thoughtful keepsake. This handmade tree sculpture is made of copper wire and decorated with red-hued beads to represent the traditional 40th anniversary material. The unique design is modeled off the tree of life, a spiritual symbol of positive energy, new beginnings and good luck. Cool, right?

Red Leather Smart Wallet

Photo: Ekster

Great gifts are born where style and practicality collide. This classic leather wallet is an accessory your spouse will appreciate, particularly if they're always out and about. It's stylish and smart, thanks to an innovative design that protects against card skimming and wireless fraud. Better yet, it comes in a variety of colors, including a rich red hue to commemorate the 40th wedding anniversary.

Ruby Hoop Earrings

Photo: Blue Nile

For a romantic 40th anniversary gift that your spouse will always cherish, look no further than these stunning ruby earrings. Pretty and petite, each of these elegant hoops is made from 14K rose gold and studded with eight red stones for a vibrant finish. Sure, they're a splurge, but when you see your partner's eyes light up it'll be worth it.

Personalized Sheet Music Art

Photo: Canvas Vows

Take the couple right back to their special day by turning their wedding song into contemporary wall art. Whether they enjoyed a whimsical waltz or a jaunty jive, they'll be thrilled to see the sheet music of their first dance splashed across the canvas. Choose the red metallic finish for a traditional 40-year anniversary present they'll be proud to display at home.

Romantic Red Roses

Photo: BloomsyBox

Red roses are synonymous with romance and passion, making them a fitting tribute to the ruby wedding anniversary. With their soft velvety petals and shiny green leaves, these blooms are the perfect way to show your spouse some love. Even after all this time, they'll be delighted to be on the receiving end of such a thoughtful gesture. Have them delivered to the door to surprise your other half on your 40th anniversary.

Ruby Eternity Ring

Photo: Charles & Colvard

If your wedding was the last time you gave your spouse a ring, your 40-year anniversary is the perfect time to treat them to a new one. This dazzling eternity band is made from elegant lab-grown diamonds and rubies set in 14K recycled white gold. Equal parts sustainable, stylish and sentimental, we can't think of a more fitting gift to celebrate 40 years of marriage.

Custom Enchanted Rose

Photo: The Forever Rose

A milestone wedding anniversary is the perfect time for grand romantic gestures that'll bring a (happy) tear to your spouse's eye. This custom enchanted rose is one of our favorite gifts for the ruby anniversary, as it's a thoughtful (and on-theme) tribute to a love that never fades. It's made from a real rose preserved in shiny red lacquer with shimmering 24K gold accents and comes with a display-worthy glass dome for a stunning presentation. Have the wooden base engraved with a sweet anniversary quote for added charm.

Red-Tinted Wine Glasses

Photo: Saks Fifth Avenue

Raise a glass and toast to 40 years with this unique take on the traditional gifting theme. The deep ruby red shade of these hand-blown wine glasses makes them a great 40th wedding anniversary present for anyone who enjoys a glass of vino in the evening. They come in a set of two—ideal if you're shopping for yourself and your spouse or another happy couple in your life.

40th Wedding Anniversary Sundial

Photo: The Metal Foundry

If you're looking for 40th anniversary gifts for your parents or friends, this unique sundial is something they'll be happy to unwrap. It's handmade from high-quality brass and finished in a deep red color that'll make a statement in any garden. With this sun-inspired 40th anniversary gift on display, the lovebirds will be reminded of how they're the center of each other's universe.

Red Dutch Oven

Photo: Le Creuset

After 40 years of living together, you and your spouse have probably had your fair share of home-cooked meals. If your kitchenware needs an update, this red Dutch oven will add some color to your stovetop. It's made from enameled cast iron, which is super durable (not to mention chic), so you can both look forward to cooking in style. Choose from six sizes for a practical 40th anniversary gift you'll use daily.

Symbolic Glass Sculpture

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Shopping for a couple who appreciates art? Gift them this symbolic glass sculpture to commemorate their 40-year anniversary. This stunning piece is made from intertwined glass and is artfully shaped to represent two souls becoming one. It's available in six gemstone-inspired colors, including ruby red (denoting passion and love) for a creative take on the traditional 40th anniversary theme.

Personalized Locket

Photo: LOVELOX

When it comes to choosing jewelry gifts for a sentimental spouse, a personalized locket never fails. This heart-shaped one is made from sterling silver plated in 18K gold and features a tiny ruby at the center of an intricate filigree pattern. Fill it with two special snapshots for a stylish (and nostalgic) gift that incorporates the 40th anniversary stone in an understated way.

Monogrammed Flower Pot

Photo: Personalization Mall

If you're having trouble finding a 40th anniversary gift for your friends, draw inspiration from their hobbies. This monogrammed flower pot is a sweet (and useful) gift any pair of gardeners will appreciate. It comes in four colors, including a rich red, and can be personalized with a shared last name and monogram for a thoughtful touch. Add some flower seeds or a low-maintenance plant so it can be put to use right away.

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Ruby-Colored Candle

Photo: Nordstrom

Candles make great anniversary gifts, especially when they smell as good as this one. Infused with bergamot, jasmine, amber and vanilla, this scented flame is a 40th anniversary gift any houseproud couple will love. It's made from paraffin-free wax and comes in a red and gold vessel that makes a gorgeous statement in any setting. Bonus points for the double-wick design and giftable packaging.

Ruby Red Cuff Links

Photo: claudetteworters

Getting dressed up to celebrate your 40th wedding anniversary? These ruby-inspired cuff links will add an elegant touch to your spouse's formalwear. They're made from red-tinted glass paired with recycled sterling silver hardware for a stylish-meets-sustainable finish. Have them gift-wrapped so they're ready to hand over straight away.

Unique 40th Wedding Anniversary Gifts

If the traditional 40th anniversary theme isn't speaking to you, there are other alternatives to consider. While this particular marriage milestone doesn't have a modern 40th anniversary gift or a specific metal assigned to it, it does have a designated anniversary flower: The gladiolus is a distinctive bloom that's named for its sword-like shape and is a symbol of infatuation. When given as a gift, this flower tells the recipient that their heart has been pierced with passion. (Aww!) It also signifies strength of character, faithfulness and honor, three undeniable traits of a successful 40-year marriage. If you'd prefer to skip the themed gifts this year, that's more than okay—we've found cool and creative 40th anniversary presents that are just as meaningful.

Personalized LP Record

Photo: Uncommon Goods

If you grew up with parents who always listened to music, this personalized framed LP record will take you to the top of the (gifting) charts. It's made from a recycled vinyl record covered in aluminized gold or platinum with their names and anniversary details at the center. You can add up to five of their favorite tunes to the list (think: a first dance song or another track of sentimental value) for a 40-year anniversary gift that's as unique as they are.

Sparkly Tennis Bracelet

Photo: Swarovski

You don't have to stick with rubies to snag a special 40th anniversary jewelry gift for your spouse. This Swarovski tennis bracelet is a bestseller for so many reasons: It's timeless, elegant and adds just the right amount of subtle sparkle to any ensemble. Choose from a variety of classic colors, including white, gold and pink, for a dazzling accessory they'll be excited to wear out to dinner.

Embroidered Throw Blanket

Photo: Personalization Mall

A personalized anniversary gift is always a win, whether you're shopping for your partner, parents or pals. This cozy throw blanket is a great choice for the 40th wedding anniversary as it can be embroidered with the couple's names and wedding date for a personal touch. Choose from a wide variety of thread colors for a meaningful (and practical) gift they can drape over their bed or cuddle up with on the sofa.

Luxury Wine Gift Set

Photo: Wine by Lamborghini

Being married for four decades is such a big deal—so it's totally understandable if you want to splurge a bit. This luxury wine gift from Lamborghini will certainly add to the sense of occasion and get the recipient in a celebratory mood. It comes with a gold bottle of sparkling wine and two crystal wine glasses, all beautifully packaged in a branded box for an impressive presentation.

"Ten Reasons I Love You" Book

Photo: Wonderbly

You've said "I love you" countless times over the last 40 years, but this custom anniversary book is yet another way to express your feelings. Answer 10 thoughtful questions about your spouse and the artists at Wonderbly will create custom illustrations to celebrate your relationship. You can also include a personal dedication on the first page to complete this sentimental 40th anniversary gift for your wife or husband.

Custom City Map Glass

Photo: Uncommon Goods

There are plenty of creative 40th anniversary gift ideas to show your love just how much they mean to you. Celebrate your hometown or wedding destination with these cool whiskey tumblers. They're etched with an intricate map of your chosen location for elegant glassware that guarantees stylish sipping every time. Cheers!

Personalized Welcome Plaque

Photo: Personalization Mall

If your favorite couple has spent years building a home together, this personalized plaque will make their abode feel like a palace. It's made from rust-free aluminum with an antique metallic finish and can be customized with the family name and the date they got married. Choose from seven different styles, including antique copper, oil-rubbed bronze and pewter, to suit their decor.

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Nostalgic Newspaper Print

Photo: BusterGracieStudio

Take the lovebirds down memory lane with this nostalgic newspaper art. It's filled with fun facts and highlights from the year they got married and can be personalized with their names and a special photo for a thoughtful finish. Opt for a wrapped canvas for a ready-made gift or choose a digital file if you'd prefer to print and frame the piece yourself.

Comfy Waffle Bathrobe

Photo: Brooklinen

Stuck on what to buy for the 40th wedding anniversary? Give your spouse the gift of comfort with this soft, spa-worthy bathrobe. It's made from 100% long-staple cotton and features a unique waffle weave that soaks up water quickly, so they'll dry off fast after stepping out of the shower. Choose from three neutral colors and nab one for yourself, too, if your budget allows.

Monogrammed Ice Bucket

Photo: Mark & Graham

A monogrammed ice bucket is a great idea if you're looking for a practical yet stylish anniversary gift for your friends or family. This oversized bowl will ensure their bottle of bubbly is perfectly chilled ahead of their 40th-anniversary celebrations. Choose from silver, copper or gold-plated steel and have their initials etched on the surface for a personal touch. They'll be pulling this out for every future occasion, from summer parties to family fêtes.

Floral-Inspired Ring Dish

Photo: Uncommon Goods

Take inspiration from the 40th anniversary flower—the gorgeous gladiolus—when choosing a meaningful gift for your spouse. This floral-inspired ring dish is made from stoneware and features a vivid purple glaze with an imprint of the symbolic bloom. It's the perfect spot to keep treasured trinkets (like their wedding and engagement rings) safe, plus it'll add a splash of color to their nightstand.

Champagne Gift Basket

Photo: GourmetGiftBaskets.com

When it comes to big milestones like the 40th wedding anniversary, a champagne gift is the perfect way to celebrate. This gift box is filled with tasty cheese, water crackers, garlic sausage and a bottle of Prosecco, making it a lovely present for your spouse, parents or close friends. Best of all, there's no need to panic if you've left things until the last minute: Express shipping is available.

Heart-Shaped Bamboo with Orchid

Photo: Plants.com

Here's a unique 40-year anniversary gift that'll score you major points for thinking outside the box. This heart-shaped bamboo is an eye-catching alternative to a fresh bouquet and is sure to grab your spouse's attention. It's paired with a pretty pink orchid and comes in an elegant ceramic planter that'll go with any color scheme. Plus, bamboo is said to symbolize good luck, so it's sure to make a positive impression.

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Smart Indoor Garden

Photo: Click & Grow

This innovative indoor planter will help your spouse or friends cultivate fresh veggies and herbs like a pro. Smart technology automatically provides the right amount of light and water, making gardening in a small space unbelievably easy. Whether they use it to grow garnishes for their homecooked meals or pretty wildflowers they can admire, they'll love having this practical gift in their home. This starter kit comes with three basil pods, but they can also choose from over 75 different seeds (or use their own if they prefer.)

Custom Map Art

Photo: inspireddecorco

Bring them back to a special location (like where they met, got engaged or hosted their nuptials) with this framed print. Your chosen location will be used to create a heart-shaped map with a red heart that's printed on an exact address. It's a thoughtful 40th anniversary gift that'll add a fun touch to their home and call to mind some of their favorite memories.

Our team received some of these products as promotional samples in exchange for editorial consideration and independent review.