The Best Steel Anniversary Gifts to Celebrate Your Strong Marriage

*Steel* their heart with one of these thoughtful gifts.

Photos, from clockwise: GiftForHimAndHerEtsy, High Camp Flasks, Ooni, DandelionMetalworks

Updated Jul 25, 2024

Finding anniversary gifts that combine thoughtfulness and style can be tricky, especially for a specific theme like steel anniversary gifts. While this industrial compound may not sound romantic, it easily sets the foundation for a meaningful gift. Like your relationship, steel is versatile and offers many gifting possibilities—from sleek cookware to elegant jewelry to home decor—and can be an excellent way to celebrate a robust and resilient marriage. Ready to shop for gifts made of steel? Learn more about what steel anniversary presents symbolize below, then shop our round-up of traditional anniversary gifts and on-theme picks.

In this article:

Steel Anniversary Gift Meaning
The Best Steel Anniversary Gifts

Steel Anniversary Gift Meaning

Steel is a metal alloy made from iron and carbon. Traditionally used in the construction industry, this durable material can be surprisingly sweet and symbolic. Wondering what the steel anniversary year actually is and what it represents? Read on for more details on this anniversary theme.

What does a steel anniversary gift symbolize?

Steel anniversary gifts symbolize a marriage that's built on an unbreakable bond of love and trust. Forged from a combination of iron and carbon, steel is one of the strongest compounds in the world. The two-part construction nods to how a married couple is even stronger as a pair than they are as individuals. Steel is also corrosion-resistant, maintaining its luster no matter what life throws at it—just like true love. Ultimately, a steel anniversary gift is a meaningful way to pay tribute to your relationship.

Which anniversary is associated with steel gifts?

Although steel gifts are suitable for any martial milestone, they're traditionally given as 11-year anniversary presents. Whether you're celebrating this particular year of marriage or just feel like being creative, a steel anniversary gift is a lovely way to celebrate the strength of your union.

The Best Steel Anniversary Gifts

Shopping for steel anniversary gift ideas can be fun (yet time-consuming), simply because of all the great options available. To help kickstart your shopping, we've rounded up the best steel anniversary gifts for him, her or them, from trendy cookware to sentimental wall art and everything in between.

1. Silver and Steel Locket

We're kicking off our list of steel gifts with a beautiful piece of anniversary jewelry. This shiny locket is made from sterling silver, tiny white sapphires and an on-theme black steel chain. It has space for two photos inside, which you can fill with snapshots from your wedding and current anniversary for a romantic touch.

$670 | Blue Nile

2. Outdoor Fire Pit

This anniversary, surprise your partner with an al fresco date night around a cozy fire. Solo Stove's stainless steel drum fire pit is portable and lightweight, making it easy to set up in your backyard or at a campsite. It's designed to emit a smokeless flame when the wood burns, so you won't have to worry about inhaling fumes or smoky scents lingering on your clothing.

From $250 | Solo Stove

3. Personalized Wall Art

Together, you and your spouse make an unstoppable team, which is why meaningful wall art will remind you of your steel-like bond, daily. This unique piece is made of 16-gauge mild steel and features a three-dimensional heart that stands out from the frame. Add your names and wedding year for a personalized steel anniversary gift for your wife, husband or spouse.

$119 | Uncommon Goods

4. Slick Knife Set

If you're married to someone who loves cooking, a steel anniversary gift is a great way to upgrade their gear. This trio of knives from Material Kitchen is made from tempered stainless steel and is perfect for slicing meat and veggies. The set includes a chef's knife, a paring knife and a serrated knife, each finished with a composite handle for safer and smoother chopping. Have the chef's knife engraved with your spouse's name for a pro-worthy finish.

From $170 | Material Kitchen

5. Steel Photo Art

Here's a symbolic steel anniversary gift for a wife, husband or spouse who likes following the traditional marriage themes. This one-of-a-kind piece of art features your chosen photo preserved in a sheet of steel and framed in black or white for a display-worthy finish. Choose from three different sizes for a thoughtful gift that nods to the steel theme and your rock-solid relationship.

From $99 | Etsy

6. Carbon Steel Skillet

One of the benefits of steel anniversary gifts is just how practical the material is. This carbon steel skillet is a worthy splurge for any home chef who values top-tier cooking equipment. Forged by hand, it features a helper handle for two-handed lifting and a base you can engrave with your spouse's name or a short anniversary message. We just love the farmhouse aesthetic of this versatile piece of cookware.

From $295 | Smithey

7. Box Chain Necklace

Married to someone who wears classic accessories? This box chain necklace from David Yurman will be right up their street. It's crafted from stainless steel and comes in a variety of colors, including black, red, orange and gray. Perfect for layering over T-shirts, this wearable steel anniversary gift is a great way to compliment your spouse's good taste and pay tribute to the traditional theme.

From $245 | David Yurman

8. Personalized Wind Sculpture

Pay homage to a love that was written in the stars with this unique wind sculpture. Designed to rotate in a light breeze, this handmade piece features the moon and stars with your names and wedding date on a rolled steel spiral. It's a symbolic gift that's perfect for the garden or anywhere a gentle wind can catch it.

$150 | Uncommon Goods

9. Smart Watch Accessories

A watch is a classic anniversary gift for any year of marriage, as it nods to all the good times you've spent with your spouse. This glamorous accessory set is ideal for someone who wears their Apple watch everywhere and is a really stylish take on the theme. It includes a stainless steel basket weave strap and a chic rhinestone bracelet they can stack alongside the watch or wear alone. Choose from gold, rose gold or silver to suit your partner's tastes.

$163 | Goldenerre

10. Multi-Fuel Pizza Oven

Ooni's bestselling pizza oven is a winning steel anniversary gift idea any foodie will love. Made from durable stainless steel, it uses wood, charcoal or gas to cook delicious pizza in as little as 60 seconds. All you have to do is crank up the heat, grab your ingredients and get ready to host an outdoor anniversary date.

$299 | Ooni

11. Monogrammed Ice Bucket

If you and your partner like to pop champagne for every anniversary, you'll love this steel anniversary gift idea. This fancy ice bucket from Mark & Graham is a stylish (and practical) way to chill your favorite bubbles and set the tone for your celebration. It's made from gold- or silver-plated stainless steel and can be engraved with your monogram for a more personal touch.

From $89 | Mark & Graham

12. Engraved Steel Bracelet

When you're shopping for a steel anniversary gift for your husband, wife or spouse, remember it's the thought that counts. This engraved bracelet is ideal for a spouse who prefers simple jewelry and is a sweet way to acknowledge the traditional theme. It features a black rope fastening and plated steel circle that can be etched with their name or your anniversary date.

Get 15% off your purchase with the KNOT15PM code.

$80 | Personalization Mall

13. Trendy Travel Mug

Sometimes, the most meaningful way to say "I love you" is the simplest. If your partner drinks coffee every morning, a travel mug is a thoughtful gift they'll appreciate. YETI's 24-ounce mug is vacuum-insulated to keep liquids hot or cold for hours, so they can sip their favorite brew at work or while running errands. Equal parts useful and fashionable, it's easily one of the best stainless steel anniversary gifts on our list.

$35 | YETI

14. Song Lyric Art

Looking for a personalized anniversary gift that's thoughtful and on-theme? This song lyric art could be the perfect solution. It features the words of your chosen tune (like your wedding song or another treasured track) laser cut into steel for a bespoke touch. What a cool piece of decor to hang up on your wall.

$125 | Etsy

15. Garden Multi Tool

If your spouse makes gardening look like an Olympic sport, we've found a practical gift that'll level up their skills. Crafted from stainless steel and beechwood, this multi-purpose tool is so much more than an ordinary garden trowel. Not only is it perfect for digging, but it can also be used to remove weeds, extract roots and prune plants. Bonus points for the handy, pocket-friendly size.

$22 | Uncommon Goods

16. Steel Mixing Bowls

When shopping for steel anniversary gifts for your other half, taking inspiration from their hobbies is a great place to start. If baking is one of their favorite pastimes, they'll appreciate having a high-quality mixing bowl (or two.) This set includes three stainless steel bowls in graduated sizes that nest for compact, space-saving storage. Bonus: Each bowl comes with an airtight lid to help seal in flavors and keep food fresh for longer.

$120 for 3 | Le Creuset

17. Stainless Steel Flask

Here's a great gift for the hiker in your life: A trendy flask they can take on their next outdoor adventure. This vacuum-insulated vessel is made of stainless steel and can keep drinks at temperature for hours—but that's not all we love about it. It comes with two integrated tumblers and can hold an entire bottle of wine, so it's ideal for packing for a romantic picnic or a leisurely trek.

From $129 | High Camp Flasks

18. Kabob Grilling Baskets

Steel anniversary gifts don't always warrant a splurge—they can be budget-friendly, too. These kabob grilling baskets are a thoughtful (and affordable) gift that'll take your spouse's BBQ game to the next level. The stainless steel wire prevents meat and veg from falling between the grill grates and ensures everything gets an even cook. Now, your spouse can skip the skewers and start cooking up a storm.

$20 | Uncommon Goods

19. Polished Picture Frame

Having spent many meaningful years together, you and your partner probably have a lifetime of memories worth displaying. This anniversary, pick one of your favorite photos and present it in this sleek picture frame. It's made of stainless steel that's been polished to a mirror-like shine and will make any snapshot look like the precious memory it is.

$139 | Nordstrom

20. Engraved Ring Dish

Keeping your wedding rings safe is just as important today as when you said, "I do." This engraved ring dish is the perfect steel anniversary for a spouse who considers their jewelry their most prized possession. It's hand-forged from steel and can be etched with Roman numerals or tally marks to represent your years of marriage.

$68 | Etsy

21. Shaving Brush Kit

This shaving brush kit is one of the most unique steel anniversary gifts we could find. Made from chrome-plated steel, it includes a shaving cream bowl and a fluffy brush that's perfect for lathering and exfoliating skin. Have the brush handle engraved with your spouse's monogram for a thoughtful and practical self-care gift they'll use daily. Note: The razor handle comes with a fake blade, so they'll need to replace it before they shave.

$100 | Personalization Mall

22. Hammered Steel Coasters

How about some fancy coasters for the coffee (or cocktail) lover in your life? This four-piece set is made from hammered steel and comes in a polished holder for elegant storage. Whether you use them daily or reserve them for dinner parties, this steel anniversary gift guarantees stylish service every time.

$125 | Nordstrom

23. Cool Cuff Links

Help your partner get dressed up for your anniversary with this set of custom cuff links. They're made of stainless steel and can be personalized with your spouse's initials for striking accessories that'll make any shirt sleeve look the part. Add an engraved gift box for a steel anniversary gift that really shines.

From $25 | Etsy

24. MLB Cocktail Set

If your spouse loves making cocktails at parties, they'll definitely put this steel shaker to good use. Aside from being a creative take on the theme, it's also a cool way to show their allegiance to their favorite baseball team. Select from a variety of MLB designs (like the Boston Red Sox or New York Mets) and add some sporty bar tools for a truly unique steel anniversary gift.

From $28 | Uncommon Goods

25. Hand-Stamped Bookmark

There's no better way to celebrate your favorite bookworm than with this thoughtful steel anniversary gift. This thematic bookmark features your choice of hand-stamped characters and a cut-out heart for added personalization. You can even customize the color of the faux leather tie to fit your spouse's preferences. Our suggestion? Tuck it into a new book before handing it over to your partner.

From $46 | Etsy

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