The Best 55th Wedding Anniversary Gifts to Wow Your Partner, Parents or Pals

Here's how to commemorate the emerald anniversary.
Collage of 55th wedding anniversary gift ideas
Photos, clockwise: Haverhill, Uncommon Goods, JustArtinAround, Artifact Uprising
emily rumsey the knot editor
by
Emily Rumsey
emily rumsey the knot editor
Emily Rumsey
Assistant Commerce Updates Editor
  • Emily helps maintain and update e-commerce content for The Knot
  • Before joining The Knot Worldwide, Emily worked as a website editor and manager for The Paleo Diet®
  • Emily holds two bachelor's degrees in Journalism and International Affairs with a Chinese minor
Updated Jul 31, 2024
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After 55 years together, you should be giving us marriage advice. Your secret might be things like always communicating openly, supporting each other's dreams, finding joy in the little moments and, of course, celebrating each milestone with thoughtful gestures, like finding the perfect 55th anniversary gift. Luckily, we're the experts for gifting advice. Whether you want to wow your spouse with the year's traditional gifting material (or other 55th wedding anniversary symbols) or you're looking for an out-of-the-box 55-year anniversary gift for parents or friends, you'll find sensational ideas below.

In this article:

Traditional 55th Anniversary Gifts

The traditional 55th anniversary gift is the emerald, a dazzling green gem symbolizing true love and eternal commitment. This precious stone also represents rebirth and good fortune, suggesting that a couple can achieve great things by learning and growing together—a fitting tribute to a 55-year union, wouldn't you say?

Unlike some other anniversaries that have both traditional and modern gifts, the 55th anniversary is singularly represented by the emerald, which is why it's often referred to as the emerald anniversary. Emerald is also the designated 55th anniversary color, so even if you don't want to splurge on the gemstone itself, you can still opt for beautiful green-hued gifts. For some shoppable inspiration, check out our favorite 55-year anniversary gifts below perfect for partners, parents and friends alike.

Personalized Family Tree

Framed wire art family tree with green beads emerald anniversary gift
Photo: Uncommon Goods

If you're shopping for a 55th wedding anniversary gift for your parents, consider a beautiful keepsake honoring the family they've built together over the last five decades. This wire tree sculpture with on-theme green beads is personalized with their family name around the trunk and loved ones' names hanging from the branches. Whether they display it in their hallway or living room, they'll be delighted to have this unique piece of art showcased in their happy home.

Emerald Forever Rose

Preserved rose with emerald petals traditional gift for 55-year anniversary
Photo: The Forever Rose

Roses are a classic romantic gesture and this one is especially fitting for the 55th wedding anniversary's meaning of eternal commitment since it'll last forever. That's right! The Forever Rose takes real roses at peak bloom and preserves them in a durable lacquer so they never fade or wilt. Even better, this verdant bloom is topped with a glossy emerald finish and 24K gold to match the milestone's theme. To make it even more special, have the stem engraved with a custom message to show your spouse just how much you cherish them.

Emerald Wine Glasses

Emerald green wine glass gift idea for 55th anniversary.
Photo: Saks Fifth Avenue

Time to say, "Cheers to 55 years!" However your parents or friends decide to recognize their emerald wedding anniversary, they'll love having this pair of elegant wine glasses on hand for a celebratory sip. They're made from brightly colored green glass in a simple silhouette for drinkware that feels both timeless and modern. To make this gift even better, add a bottle of their favorite wine so they can test them out immediately. Champagne, anyone?

Vintage Emerald Glass Cake Stand

Vintage emerald cake stand 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Anthropologie

IMO, every achievment deserves to be celebrated with cake. For the 55th wedding anniversary, elevate the gesture by gifting the sweet treat on this stunning cake stand. Its deep emerald color and elegant design add a touch of sophistication to any dessert display. This thoughtful and stylish gift will be cherished for years to come, whether used to showcase a homemade masterpiece or present donuts and croissants at a brunch party.

Emerald Bracelet

Emerald bracelet 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Haverhill

With such a dazzling gemstone as the 55th anniversary theme, jewelry is a welcome gift idea. This bracelet features seven beautifully cut emeralds on a 14K yellow gold or white gold chain, creating a timeless and luxurious accessory. Make sure to plan a special anniversary date so your spouse can flaunt their new bling right away.

Silver Watch with Emerald Face

Silver watch with emerald green face 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Nixon

A stylish watch is always a good go-to gift, acting as a sentimental nod to all the good times you and your partner have shared. (And, after 55 years, there are probably a lot of those). If you want to treat your spouse to a new timepiece, this silver watch boasts a luxe emerald green-hued face for a perfect tribute to your 55th wedding anniversary. You can even have the back engraved with names, a date or a short message for a personal touch.

Emerald Fabric Cover Photo Book

Emerald fabric cover photo book 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Artifact Uprising

For a seriously nostalgic 55th wedding anniversary present for your parents, consider a photo album. Organizing all those sweet snapshots of the couple's life together will take some time, but the end result will be totally worth it. Artifact Uprising offers a beautiful Layflat Photo Album, perfect for this occasion. They even have an emerald-hued fabric for the cover, which beautifully aligns with the traditional anniversary theme. This hardcover album will serve as a stunning keepsake, celebrating decades of cherished memories and milestones. Your parents will have a wonderful time flipping through all the photos, and you're bound to hear some stories from their past that you haven't heard before.

Emerald-Inspired Resin Art

Emerald-inspired resin art 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Uncommon Goods

If there's any inch of wall space left after 55 years of collecting art and framing pictures, this is the perfect piece to fill it. Crafted from an assortment of paint, crystals, crushed glass and glitter, this emerald-inspired heart is a perfect tribute to the couple's journey and the milestones they have achieved.

Emerald Bedding Set

Emerald green bedding set from Target 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Target

Bedding is a great choice for an anniversary gift for a couple who has everything—we all need something to sleep on, right? This luxurious duvet set will make any room feel opulent without breaking the bank. The rich emerald green tones, coupled with the soft, velvety fabric, make us think of royal boudoirs from centuries past. It includes one duvet cover and one or two shams, depending on the size. We bet the lucky couple will be happy to curl up under this warm, soft blanket once temperatures drop.

Emerald Glass Vase

Green and grey glass vase by Nordstrom 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Nordstrom

An elegant vase is a winning gift, particularly if your spouse or favorite couple loves to display fresh flowers in their home. To make this idea special enough for a 55th wedding anniversary, opt for this trendy (and on-theme) emerald green vase. Made from mouth-blown glass, this cleverly designed vessel features a removable top that can be flipped to fit everything from a single stem to a big bunch of blooms. Pack it full of flowers before gifting it so they can see it in all its glory.

Wizard of Oz Jigsaw Puzzle

Wizard of Oz jigsaw 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Amazon

Celebrate a 55th anniversary with a touch of nostalgia and fun by gifting a Wizard of Oz jigsaw puzzle. This particular puzzle features the beloved gang making their way to the Emerald City, adding a subtle nod to the 55th anniversary theme. With 1000 pieces, it promises hours of entertainment and a delightful way for your partner or favorite couple to reminisce about their favorite classic while enjoying quality time together.

Emerald Green Picture Frame

Emerald green picture frame gift for a 55th anniversary.
Photo: Macy's

It's hard to beat an elegantly framed photograph, especially in today's increasingly digital world. If all your parents' favorite snapshots are stuck on their phones, why not get creative and present them with a printed photograph in this simple emerald frame? It's made from shiny gold-tone metal and vibrant green enamel, which will elevate any picture to mantle-worthy status.

Green Waxed Canvas Briefcase

Green briefcase 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Satchel & Page

Not retired yet? This 55th anniversary gift for your husband, wife or partner will have them stand out as the best-accessorized at the office. Its slim profile hides a spacious, expandable interior with a central laptop pocket designed to prevent scratches. With two exterior zippered pockets for easy access to essentials, this stylish and functional bag is ideal for commuters and travelers alike. Plus, its emerald green waxed canvas exterior is beautifully complemented by genuine Italian tanned leather straps to fit the milestone's theme.

Emerald and Diamond Ring

Emerald and diamond ring 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Blue Nile

We can already hear your spouse's gasp when they open this truly stunning 55th wedding anniversary gift. Set in 14k white gold, this exquisite ring features alternating emeralds and diamonds, symbolizing the enduring beauty and strength of your relationship. Depending on the day, they can stack it with their existing wedding band or wear it as a standalone piece. Either way, we predict they'll definitely want to show off this gift.

55-Year Anniversary Pop-Up Card

55-year anniversary pop-up card gift
Photo: LittlethingsbyG

Whatever you choose to give your spouse, parents or friends for their 55th anniversary, don't forget to include a card—and this one will make a lasting impression. Bursting with emerald-colored hearts, flowers, butterflies, rhinestones and glitter, the detailed pop-up design perfectly expresses your joy for this significant milestone. Its beauty ensures they'll proudly display it in their home throughout the year as part of the celebration.

Unique 55th Anniversary Gifts

If emerald anniversary gifts don't appeal to you, there are two other 55th wedding anniversary symbols to consider, like the anniversary flower and gemstone. The calla lily is the 55th anniversary flower; a distinctive trumpet-shaped bloom that signifies devotion and magnificent beauty. Surprisingly, the 55th anniversary stone isn't emerald but alexandrite—an unique stone that changes colors depending on the light. This rare gem is said to bring luck, positivity and good fortune to those who wear it, making it a great choice for thoughtful and romantic gifts.

Themed anniversary presents aren't the only option, though, which is why we've included some great alternative anniversary gifts that break with tradition. Our list includes something for everyone, from cozy blankets and pajamas to savory subscriptions and fun experiences for any age.

StoryWorth Subscription

Custom family storybook unique 55th wedding anniversary gift
Photo: StoryWorth | Facebook

There's no doubt that your favorite couple has accrued plenty of great stories from their 55 years of marriage. Turn those personal anecdotes into a beautiful keepsake book with a subscription from StoryWorth. Each week, they'll receive an email with unique questions to answer, like what their fondest childhood memory is. At the end of the year, all their stories will be bound into a memory book, creating a touching and meaningful 55th-anniversary gift that ensures their love story lives on for generations to come.

Personalized Anniversary Blanket

Personalized anniversary blanket gift idea for 55th anniversary.
Photo: Personalization Mall

If you're still not sure what to get as a 55th anniversary gift for friends, parents or your beloved spouse, consider a woven blanket that'll keep them cozy when the evenings get chilly. This fringed cotton throw is embroidered with the couple's names, anniversary year and the number of years they've been together for a personalized anniversary gift that'll warm more than just their hearts. Choose from a wide range of embroidery thread colors, including emerald green, for a subtle nod to the 55th anniversary theme.

Use our exclusive code KNOT15PM to receive 15% off your entire order.

Washable Silk Pajamas

Washable silk pajamas 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Lunya

If your spouse has worn the same pajamas for the last few years, it may be time to upgrade their bedtime wardrobe. Crafted from delicate pink, blue or black silk, this elegant loungewear set combines sophisticated style with practical, washable silk fabric. Its high-rise pants and relaxed top offer a perfect blend of comfort and refinement, making it an ideal gift for your partner to enjoy both lounging at home and feeling pampered.

If this is your first time shopping Lunya, you can use our code FOR-TK for 15% off your purchase.

Custom House Portrait

Custom house watercolor portrait 55th wedding anniversary gift for parents
Photo: JustArtinAround

There's no place like home, and a couple who have spent 55 years building one together probably knows that better than most. This custom digital illustration is a lovely way to honor the house they've loved and lived in for over five decades. Simply submit a photo of their home for reference before receiving a watercolor printed rendition of it. Note: The artwork comes unframed, so you may want to include some extra time to pick one up to complete this sentimental anniversary gift.

Bouquet of Calla Lilies

Bouquet of calla lilies gift idea for 55th anniversary.
Photo: 1-800-Flowers

Imagine your partner waking up on the morning of your anniversary to this stunning bouquet at the breakfast table. It's designed with white calla lilies (the 55th wedding anniversary flower) and romantic red roses—a gorgeous combination that's as perfect as you two are. They'll be delivered straight to the door, so all you have to do is distract your other half while you get them all set up. There's even an option to add a vase and some candy if you want to win even more brownie points.

Add our code KNOT18F to check out to receive 20% off your order.

Customizable Gourmet Candy Trunk

Gourmet candy from Sugarfina 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Sugarfina

No matter how old your partner or favorite couple gets, they still devour candy like a kid on Halloween. For their 55th anniversary, indulge their sweet tooth with Sugarfina's customizable 9-piece mini candy trunk. This elegant and playful gift allows you to select a variety of gourmet candies, creating a personalized treat that's as delightful as it's memorable. With its sophisticated design and delectable assortment, this candy trunk is a charming and thoughtful way to celebrate a milestone year.

Watercolor Paint Kit

Watercolor paint set gift idea from Uncommon Goods 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Uncommon Goods

One of the best things about getting older is having more free time to spend on hobbies and leisure. Whether your spouse is a budding artist or a talented pro, they'll love this handy watercolor kit. Great for on-the-go, it includes a sketch pad, a palette of 16 bright paints and a water pen brush that activates the colors in seconds. The compact vegan leather case keeps everything together so they can carry it with them to the park, cafe or even just the backyard. (Bonus: The color sheets and sketchbook are refillable for a practical anniversary gift that can be used time and again.)

MasterClass Subscription

MasterClass subscription 55th anniversary gift
Photo: MasterClass

Celebrate 55 years of togetherness with a gift that offers endless opportunities for learning and growth: a MasterClass subscription. This unique 55th anniversary gift provides access to a vast array of courses taught by world-class experts in various fields, from cooking and writing to photography and business. Whether your partner or favorite couple is looking to hone a hobby or explore a new passion, MasterClass offers diverse and enriching experiences to fill their free time.

Newspaper Anniversary Book

New York Times anniversary book unique 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Hammacher Schlemmer

If your parents or friends have enjoyed reading the newspaper together over the last 55 years, here's a creative anniversary gift they'll love. This leather-bound book is filled with the front pages from The New York Times from their wedding date every year through their most recent anniversary. They'll have so much fun looking back in time and reminiscing about all that has changed since they walked down the aisle. (Psst: If the text looks too small, you can add a magnifying glass to your order so they won't miss a thing).

Calla Lily Candle

Michael Aram lily scented candle gift idea for 55th anniversary.
Photo: Bloomingdale's

If you're looking for a thoughtful (and beautiful) gift for the light of your life, this scented candle is a winner. The lid is decorated with the calla lily, the 55-year anniversary flower, while the soy wax is infused with the sweet aroma of orange blossom, lily and lotus. Once lit, your spouse can enjoy the delicate floral fragrance and set the scene for a relaxing night in. It's a striking showpiece that'll add an elegant touch to any nightstand, coffee table or sideboard.

Purple Alexandrite Earrings

Purple stone earring gift idea for 55th anniversary.
Photo: Uncommon Goods

Take inspiration from the 55th anniversary gemstone (alexandrite) with this pair of colorful drop earrings. They're made from hand-cast resin filled with glittering purple alexandrite stones suspended from highly polished bronze hooks. With ear candy that looks this good, don't be surprised if your spouse wants to show them off right away (at your anniversary party, perhaps?).

Monthly Coffee Subscription

Atlas Coffee Club coffee subscription 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Atlas Coffee Club

Every year together is special, but make the 55th the most memorable—or at least the most energized—with a coffee subscription. Each month, your partner or favorite couple will receive a bag of freshly roasted, single-origin coffee beans from some of the world's top coffee-growing regions. For those who prefer quick brewing, there are also K-cup and Nespresso pod options available. Each shipment provides not only a new and exciting flavor experience but also tasting notes and coffee history cards to enhance their morning ritual. Plus, if you need a last-minute anniversary gift, Atlas Coffee Club can send an email on your chosen day to notify them that their gift is on its way.

Customized Scrabble Board

Customized Scrabble board 55th anniversary gift
Photo: L.L. Bean

Scrabble is as timeless as a 55-year marriage, making this solid wood version the perfect anniversary gift. Designed for endless enjoyment, this classic game features a sturdy construction with a raised grid and plastic playing surface that keeps tiles in place. The board rotates on a lazy Susan for easy viewing and lifts off to reveal a convenient storage area. Plus, it can be personalized with a nameplate, transforming it into an heirloom-worthy family game.

Custom Canvas Song Art

Lime & Lou custom song art 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Lime & Lou

This 55th wedding anniversary gift will transport the couple back to their wedding night. The unique wall art features the lyrics to their first dance song printed on a vinyl record canvas design, evoking the nostalgic charm of how they used to listen to music—or still do, since everything sounds better on vinyl. You can personalize it further with names and a wedding date. The art is available on eco-friendly canvas, metal or acrylic and comes framed for display readiness.

Airbnb Gift Card

Airbnb gift card 55th anniversary gift
Photo: Airbnb

The 55th anniversary is a significant milestone, deserving more than just a day of celebration. An anniversary trip is the perfect way to make the occasion extra special and enjoy quality time with the love of your life. Treat your spouse or parents to an Airbnb gift card so they can experience the comfort of home in a new and exciting destination. Need travel suggestions? Consider the Emerald Coast, a stunning stretch along the Gulf of Mexico in Florida that spans about 100 miles and includes popular vacation spots like Pensacola Beach, Navarre Beach, Fort Walton Beach, Destin and Panama City Beach.

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