The Best 42nd Anniversary Gift Ideas for the One You Love

Treat your spouse to one of these symbolic and meaningful gifts.

Four 42nd anniversary gifts: mugs, a jasper bracelet, Le Creuset Dutch oven, silver earrings

Photos, clockwise: Uncommon Goods, Macy's, Le Creuset, Blue Nile

Updated Aug 02, 2023

A marriage that has lasted for 42 years deserves to be celebrated, no matter how you look at it. Picking out a meaningful 42nd anniversary gift to mark the occasion is one of the best ways to show your spouse some love. After over four decades of gift-giving, it's completely understandable if you're running out of ideas—which is where we come in. Whatever your budget, style or taste, we've compiled a list of symbolic and alternative gifts to help you commemorate your 42-year anniversary. Keep reading to learn more about the different themes associated with the 42nd marriage milestone.

In this article:

42nd Anniversary Gift Themes
Symbolic 42nd Anniversary Gifts
Alternative 42nd Anniversary Gifts

42nd Anniversary Gift Themes

While there isn't a traditional gift for the 42nd wedding anniversary, there are other gifting symbols associated with this particular year of marriage. First up, the modern gift theme is improved real estate, or in simpler terms, symbols of home. While this may seem like an unusual theme, it actually represents the stability and comfort of a marriage that has thrived for over four decades. The official gemstone for the 42-year anniversary is jasper, an opaque crystal that symbolizes tranquility, wisdom and healing. The versatile stone comes in a wide range of colors, including red, yellow, brown and green, making it an easy symbol to personalize to your spouse's taste preferences. There isn't a designated flower or color for the 42nd anniversary, but that shouldn't stop you from giving your partner a beautiful bouquet if you want to.

Symbolic 42nd Anniversary Gifts

If you've got your heart set on something sweet and symbolic, there are many ways to incorporate the modern anniversary theme into your gift. The home theme is the perfect excuse to upgrade your house with new linens or decor and spoil your spouse at the same time. Whether you want to splash out on a splurge-worthy find or keep things simple, we've rounded up the best gifts that support the modern gifting theme. We've also included a couple of jasper-inspired presents that highlight the 42nd anniversary gemstone in a really cool way.

Woven Storage Baskets

Keeping your home neat and tidy is a gift any partner will appreciate, especially if it involves new storage. These beautiful handwoven baskets are made by artisans in Mexico using locally-sourced palm leaves for a rustic finish. Each one takes three days to complete and is created in a fair-trade environment, making this practical gift stylish and ethical. Use them to store extra throws, shoes and accessories for a clutter-free living space.

From $139 | The Citizenry

Celebratory Scented Candle

Nothing makes a home feel cozier than the glow of a delicious-smelling candle. This one from Homesick is bound to get you and your spouse in a celebratory mood, thanks to its sweet champagne scent. It's made from natural soy wax and comes in a box that you can personalize with your own handwritten note. It's a thoughtful and thematic 42nd anniversary gift that'll make your home feel more special and inviting.

$38 | Homesick

Cotton Sheet Set

Looking for a gorgeous gift that nails the modern anniversary theme and promotes a great night's sleep? Look no further than Brooklinen's classic sheet set. Made from crisp cotton, it includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet and two pillowcases—basically, everything you need to transform your bed into a soft and cozy dreamland. Choose from an array of classic colors and prints (we love the Oxford stripe), and get ready to hit the snooze button.

From $149 | Brooklinen

Cute Coffee Mugs

Pair of coffee mugs made to look like faces kissing from Uncommon Goods

Here's a romantic gift to brighten your home: A cute pair of coffee mugs designed to look like two kissing faces. Perfect for relaxed coffee mornings with your spouse, they'll add a playful touch to your daily ritual. The handles even look like a heart when the mugs are put together, making this symbolic 42nd anniversary gift all the more sweet.

$50 | Uncommon Goods

Beaded Jasper Bracelet

If your spouse has an eye for unusual jewelry, they'll love this boho-inspired bracelet. It's made from gray spotted jasper stones and accented with a rose gold pavé bead for added elegance. Since wearing jasper is said to encourage feelings of courage and wisdom, this fashionable 42nd anniversary gift may even inspire the wearer to follow their dreams.

$46 | Macy's

Gold Bar Cart

Your 42nd wedding anniversary is the perfect time to treat your spouse (and your home) to something you might not usually go for. This contemporary bar cart is guaranteed to add a glamorous touch to your dinner parties, not to mention your cocktails—and it makes for a stylish (and symbolic) anniversary gift. The gold-tone metal frame and contrasting wooden shelves pair nicely together, while the leather-trimmed handle allows for a comfortable grip. We suggest adding your spouse's favorite bourbon or a bottle of anniversary-worthy wine for an impressive presentation.

$150 | Target

Round Dutch Oven

If you're going to splurge on one thing for your home, make it a piece of cookware from Le Creuset. This cast-iron Dutch oven is a bestseller for many reasons: It's stylish, easy to clean and versatile, not to mention extremely durable. This practical 42nd anniversary gift is suitable for everything from baking and roasting to slow cooking and frying and will make a welcome addition to any kitchen stovetop.

From $260 | Le Creuset

Cozy Knit Blanket

A cozy blanket is an easy way to add warmth to your living space (and your midweek movie nights). Soft yet lightweight, this oversized knit throw is made from finely woven Turkish cotton and comes in two neutral colors: charcoal grey and beige. It's a stylish and on-theme 42-year anniversary gift perfect for napping, snuggling and all those sleepy moments in between.

$99 | Nordstrom

Tinted Wine Glasses

Do you and your partner like to relax with a glass of wine in the evening? These tinted glasses will add a pop of color to your favorite vino and your glassware collection. They're made from hand-blown glass and come in a variety of happy shades, including rose pink, mint green and lavender. They're a great way to nod to the modern home theme and bring a sense of style to your 42nd anniversary celebrations.

$85 | Saks Fifth Avenue

Crystal Wall Art

A gift that honors the modern anniversary theme and the 42-year gemstone? Sign us up! This crystal wall art is perfect for anyone with a strong spiritual side and draws inspiration from nature and geometry's connections to the universe. It's made from mixed media and features various pretty gems, including green jade, rhodonite and bird's-eye jasper (the 42nd anniversary stone). Hang it on your wall to invite positive energy, hope and love into your home.

$333 | Uncommon Goods

White Terracotta Vase

There may not be an official anniversary flower for the 42nd anniversary, but we've found the perfect workaround with this elegant vase. It's made from terracotta clay that's handpainted white for a modern yet rustic finish. Fill it with a bouquet of fresh blooms or some dried flowers for a thoughtful presentation.

From $38 | Anthropologie

Personalized Welcome Mat

Make guests feel even more welcome the next time they come over with this personalized doormat. It's made from material that mimics natural coir fibers and can be customized with your family name or monogram for a personal touch. It's a thoughtful and thematic 42nd anniversary gift that's (almost) too cute to wipe your feet on.

$40 | Personalization Mall

Alternative 42nd Anniversary Gifts

Symbolic gifts are just one of the ways to honor the 42nd anniversary, so don't worry if you feel like shopping for something different. A truly memorable gift is one that's chosen with care and love, so feel free to ditch the rule book in favor of a more creative option. To help you find an awesome alternative present for your husband or wife, we've found 10 great gifts that don't fit in with any specific theme. From luxurious loungewear and elegant jewelry to delicious confectionery and wine-tasting experiences (yes, really!), our list is packed with out-of-the-box options.

Storyworth Personalized Book

After 42 happy years together, you and your spouse probably have many tales from all your shared adventures. With this personalized anniversary gift from Storyworth, your other half can transform your precious love story into a thoughtful keepsake to treasure forever. Every week, they'll receive a story prompt by email to inspire them to share personal anecdotes from your long-lasting relationship. By the end of the year, their stories will be compiled into an heirloom-worthy book you can read together to relive your favorite memories.

$99 | Storyworth

Virtual Wine-Tasting Experience

If your spouse already has enough stuff, consider giving them an experience-orientated anniversary gift instead. This virtual wine-tasting will bring fun and sophistication to your next date night (and may even help you learn something new). During the virtual class, you'll join wine expert Carey Jackson in sampling recommended wines (that you buy yourselves) and discovering the rich culture surrounding your favorite beverage. Bonus: If you want to go all out, you can update your experience by adding a set of tasting glasses to your order.

From $27 | Uncommon Goods

Plush Lounge Socks

Think socks are a boring anniversary gift? These luxurious lounge socks from Cozy Earth will make you think again. They're made from breathable and moisture-wicking fabric designed to prevent pilling, so they'll look just like new for ages. Available in men's and women's sizes, this set includes three pairs in various color combinations, from soft neutrals to warm earthy tones.

$55 | Cozy Earth

Silver Knot Earrings

If you've given your spouse jewelry every year since you got married, why stop now? These silver knot earrings are the perfect tribute to your 42-year marriage and the special day you exchanged your vows. They're subtle enough for everyday wear and will appeal to anyone who loves timeless designs.

$70 | Blue Nile

Soft Lounge Cardigan

When it comes to luxurious loungewear, it's hard to beat something soft and comfy from Lunya. This long cardigan is made from organic pima cotton and is perfect for lazy Sundays, cozy evenings, and even working from home. It layers beautifully over pajamas without adding unnecessary bulk, making it a clear winner in our book. Available in black or white, this chic cardi is an excellent gift for anyone who loves to dress down on their days off. (Psst: Use code FOR-TK20 to get 20% your first order).

$198 | Lunya

Personalized Leather Scrapbook

Personalized scrapbook with leather cover from Etsy

Looking for a thoughtful DIY anniversary gift for your significant other? This personalized leather scrapbook is a great way to encourage their creativity. Whether they use it to display photos or show off ephemera from the last 42 years, it's sure to get them excited about their next project. Have it customized with your names for a thoughtful touch, and add a few sentimental snapshots to help them get started.

From $42 | Etsy

Luxury Chocolate Assortment

Box of assorted chocolates from Simply Chocolate

If you're shopping for someone with a sweet tooth, a box of chocolates is a foolproof 42nd anniversary gift. This luxury assortment of Belgian milk chocolates contains 45 pieces and comes in a customizable box you can personalize with a thoughtful message. Add up to five lines of text to show your spouse how "Ah-mazing" they really are.

$50 | Simply Chocolate

Hanging Orchid Terrarium

Feel like mixing things up this year? Swap a traditional bouquet for a hanging orchid terrarium, and you have a really unique 42nd anniversary gift. This glass vessel is filled with a mini orchid preserved in reindeer moss, creating a beautiful piece of living art that you can display at home. It's a pretty and thoughtful gift any plant-loving spouse will appreciate. Choose from purple or pink blooms to suit their tastes.

$68 | Uncommon Goods

Crew Neck Sweater

If you can't remember the last time your spouse updated their casualwear, the 42nd anniversary is an excellent time to get them something new. With its crew neckline and relaxed fit, this comfy sweater from Beyond Yoga will quickly become their go-to on days off. The soft and stretchy modal fabric is made for layering and looks great styled with everything from jeans to shorts.

$99 | Beyond Yoga

Custom Star Map

True love is written in the stars—so why not celebrate when fate intervened with a custom star map of the night you two met? Simply fill in the date and location of your first date (or wedding day), and the seller will transform it into a meaningful piece of art. It's a super romantic 42nd anniversary gift that will leave any sentimental spouse with a twinkle in their eye.

From $33 | Etsy