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It may not yet be half a century, but 40 years together is a long time worth celebrating—and commemorating with a gift! Traditional and modern gifts for this wedding anniversary are ruby, a guideline that makes picking out something special a little bit easier. Opt for a special piece of ruby jewelry, cufflinks, or even something with a “ruby” hue like a cozy blanket or an elegant pen.
Of course, you don’t need to abide by the 40th-anniversary theme when looking for the perfect present. A personalized gift, like a memory book, is always a no-fail option. And after all these years, why not treat yourselves to something practical that you’ll both get a lot of use out of? A fancy new coffee maker or an elegant decanter may be just what you need to brighten up your mornings and evenings together.
Read on for the best 40th-anniversary gifts.
Angara Prong-Set Ruby Station Bracelet
Choose from yellow gold, rose gold, or white gold as the base for this stunning ruby bracelet. Nine petite rubies are set on a delicate chain—it’s a timeless piece that she’ll be able to pair with any outfit.
Uncommon Goods New York Times Custom Anniversary Book
With 40 years together, there have been enough moments to fill a book! The New York Times Custom Anniversary Book captures the most historical moments that happened every year on your anniversary, with a personalized cover stamped with your names in gold. It makes for a classic—and super personal—coffee table book.
Cufflinks Inc. Stripe Square Cufflinks
Are we right in guessing your spouse’s cufflink collection mostly consists of neutral silvers, blacks, and golds? Add a splash of color with this square pair, which alternates ruby-hued enameled stripes with a silver-tone plate. Subtle etchings add a bit of texture for an even sharper look.
Mark & Graham Wood Watch Box
If you’ve gifted your husband a watch or two (or three) over the years, now give him something to keep them all in. This watch box is made from sustainably sourced acacia wood, with five slots for watches in a linen lining inside. Add a custom touch by getting it laser-engraved with his monogram on top.
Sunday Morning Jane Mohair Scarf
Soft, warm, and snug—what more could you want from a scarf? This one is handcrafted in Spain out of mohair, soft wool from Angora goat that’s durable, resilient, and less itchy than typical sheep’s wool. The cherry-red style can be dressed up with a blazer for a night out or dressed down with a sweatsuit for a daily coffee run.
Levenger True Writer Classic Ballpoint Pen
Every desk needs a splurge-worthy pen—especially if your spouse is a writer or works with documents. This classic ballpoint is mirror polished to feel like Japanese Urushi lacquer and features gold-plated accents. Opt for classic ivory or bold red to fit with the 40th-anniversary theme.
Voluspa Limited Edition Cut Glass Jar Candle
The best kinds of candles are those that look good while smelling dreamy. The Volupsa candle does both, and while you can’t go wrong with any of the scents, we suggest the Goji Tarocco Orange for its ruby-colored jar. Containing a cold-pressed tarocco orange and sun-dried goji berry blend, it smells delightfully fresh.
Picture This Gift Co. 40 Years of Music Personalized Print
This one is for the music-loving couple. A personalized poster featuring a music album icon for each of the 40 years you’ve been married will add some flair to the living room wall. You can even request specific album covers, and the release date and album length are accompanied underneath each.
Ekouaer Women’s Satin Robe
A ruby red satin robe is sexy, chic, and the perfect thing to wear on your anniversary night. Three-quarter bell sleeves with two mesh panels bring an unexpected design to this kimono-style robe. It has both inside ties and an exterior tie for double security, creating a V-neck when the robe is closed.
Uncommon Goods All Roads Take Us Home Map Glass Duo
A set of whiskey tumblers takes on special meaning when they come engraved with a memorable location. Whether it’s where you first met, got engaged, tied the knot, or live now, pick an address that means the most to you as a couple, and Uncommon Goods will bring it to life with a map of the locale. You can even add the name of the location alongside or on the bottom of the glass.
dan-yell Lil Chili Necklace
Forget diamond necklaces—this gold chain featuring a chili pendant with three sparkling rubies brings something different to the standard jewelry collection. The necklace length adjusts from 16 inches to 18 inches, making it versatile for different necklines. We love it for dressing up a basic sweater or for adding a bit of glimmer to a dress.
Vista Alegre Carrara Large Oval Platter
This oval platter instantly glams up any tablescape. A geometric marble design with gilded edges puts a modern take on an old-world feel, and its neutral palette means it’ll fit right in with nearly any other tableware. It’s sure to make a statement, whether serving up the main course in the center of the table or offering drinks during cocktail hour.
Tissot Bella Ora Leather Strap Watch
Some watches have so many bells and whistles that they can get a bit overwhelming. Opt for simplicity with a mother of pearl dial, sapphire crystal face, rose gold accents, and a red leather band. It’ll add a subtle pop of color to any outfit without being overly distracting.
Teslyar Wood Phone Docking Station
Never misplace anything again with such an organized docking station. This ash wood station is polished and sturdy, with plenty of compartments and a hole for your phone charger. Ipads, smartphones, wallets, watches, keys, fitness tracker—you name it, you can find a place for it. Perfect for the nightstand or end table by the couch.
Toss by Daniel Stuart Studio Pleated Knit Throw
Thick, heavy, and ribbed, it’s easy to fall asleep curled up in this soft knit blanket. At 44 inches wide by 70 inches long, it weighs 2.4 pounds. It’s oversized, which means there’s ample room for both of you to share during an at-home date night. Grab some popcorn, turn on Netflix, and get ready to cozy up.
Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso Maker
Treat yourselves to an elevated cup of joe in the morning. This coffee maker does it all—brew espresso, cappuccino, or latte, depending on your mood. It even comes with a recipe book to really switch things up, whether you want to make an espresso martini or a raspberry cappuccino.
Chic Geeks Crimson Faux Crocodile MacBook Case
Upgrade their MacBook with a luxurious faux crocodile case. With a rich crimson color, it gives off a low lustrous sheen that’s bold and striking. Made of durable rubberized plastic and faux leather with a cut-out for the Apple logo, the case will keep your laptop free of bumps and scratches.
Crazy Lady Fluffy Slippers
Float around the house in a pair of fluffy slippers that feel like a cloud. An x-strap design with an open toe keeps feet warm without overheating, and a cushion of high-density terry cloth foam offers comfort on the bottom of the foot. It’s complete with a rubber sole that prevents any slipping and sliding around on wood floors.
Vuori Sunday Performance Jogger
Whether your husband wants to wear them for his morning run or for lounging around the house, these performance joggers are sure to get a lot of use. A zippered side pocket offers a place to store keys and a credit card, and a fitted cuff creates a smoother running experience. Made of moisture-wicking fabric, they also soak up sweat easily. Buy them in oxblood so he’ll think of your 40th anniversary whenever he puts them on.
Crate and Barrel Hatch Decanter
A hatch decanter is a must for the bar cart. With a diamond pattern, this one looks like it’s made of crystal, but is actually made of dishwasher-safe glass. It’s a timeless look that will never go out of style and will stand out among all the whiskey bottles and tumblers. The decanter holds up to 32 ounces of liquor.
A.M. Thorne 3 Ruby Stone Ring
This delicate piece of jewelry was made for the elegant minimalist. Three miniature ruby stones sit in a prong wire setting in a yellow gold band. They’re beautiful enough to make a subtle statement, but not so flashy that they’ll overpower the hand. The ring is perfect to stack on top of other dainty bands.
Final Verdict
If you want to stick close with the ruby theme, we love the Angara Prong-Set Ruby Station Bracelet or the Stripe Square Cufflinks as a special, wearable gift. If you’re looking for something outside of the traditional and modern gift guidelines, we suggest the New York Times Custom Anniversary Book for something more personal or the Mr. Coffee Cafe Barista Espresso Maker for a practical item both of you can use.
What are some creative or unique anniversary ideas?
Surprise your partner with a romantic evening out at the place of your first date—it’ll be fun to see how much it’s changed (or hasn’t) over the years. If that’s not possible, book a weekend away where you took your first couple’s trip to bring back all the memories.
Why trust Brides?
Brides contributor Hillary Hoffower has over six years of experience writing for the wedding industry, covering everything from bridal fashion trends to wedding decor. She’s always on the hunt for the perfect gift for any occasion. If her future husband is reading this, she would like a pair of ruby earring studs on her 40th wedding anniversary.