For Under $20, You Can Gift Your Wife This Beautiful Gladiolus Necklace
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Your love might not be eternal, yet, but if you've made it 40 years together, you're pretty close. Now that your 40th is finally here, make sure the flame never goes out by finding the perfect gift for your one true love. To help you keep the passion alive for your ruby year, our gift experts have combed the internet to find the best 40-year anniversary gifts out there.
Whether you're shopping for her or browsing for him (even if you think he has everything), there's a present on this list that'll make them fall in love with you all over again. Anniversary gifts have themes by year, and if you've made it to your 40th, the traditional pick is a ruby. Rubies symbolize your love for each other and an eternal flame. In this guide, you'll find a combination of modern and traditional options, as well as unique gifts that are sure to impress them. And don't worry, we've found plenty of ruby-themed gifts under $100 so you won't have to break the bank to honor the tradition.
40th Anniversary Symbols
Traditional: Rubies
Modern: Rubies
Gem: Ruby
Flower: Gladiolus
Color: Red
Read on to learn more about the symbolism behind these presents and find a unique 40-year anniversary gift idea for your longtime love. We promise we've found the best options out there for him and her.
Red Roses Pop Up Card
Of course, real roses are beautiful, but this pop-up card will last much longer. At 12 inches tall, it's complete with a paper stand to keep it upright. Here's just one positive review: "This is absolutely gorgeous! I bought this as a birthday present and to see its vibrancy is amazing! Would definitely recommend buying!"
Tennis Bracelet
When it comes to jewelry, a tennis bracelet is as classic as it gets. Add rubies and you've found the perfect 40-year anniversary gift. This pick is a steal at under $40 and she'll never know the gemstones are lab-created.
40th Anniversary Burlap Print
They'll proudly display this sweet anniversary print, which features burlap and a ruby in a nod to tradition. The best part? It comes framed (11 x 13 inches) and ready to hang.
40th Anniversary Crystal Swans
While they're not real rubies, these gorgeous crystal swans give a nod to tradition. There's also a bit of symbolism behind them — these birds mate for life. Many Amazon purchasers give them five stars for their sturdiness. One buyer shared: "Bigger than I expected. Stunning glass work."
Gladiolus Necklace
She'll be delighted to wear this simple birth flower necklace every day, whether she's heading to work or off to run errands. The understated gladiolus pendant for her 40th is the perfect match for the station cable link chain.
His and Hers Tumblers
Looking for a practical present? Consider these his-and-hers tumblers. Made of stainless steel, they come with straws and cleaning brushes, perfect for staying hydrated in the office or sipping iced coffee on the go.
Gladiolus Tote Bag
It's hard to believe this unique tote bag costs under $25! It measures 16 by 16 inches and is made of light polyester spun fabric, with double-stitched seams that are designed to last.
Cloud Slippers
These EVA foam slides might not seem like the most romantic gift, but hear us out: They're extremely cushy and comfortable. They come in unisex sizing, so pick up a pair for yourself while you're at it. Take your pick of 23 colors.
40th Anniversary Paperweight
Printed with a loving countdown, this sentimental 40th anniversary gift also doubles as a paperweight. Made of high-quality acrylic, it can also be hung on the wall.
Hand Casting Kit
This hand casting kit is an experience gift you can both try to celebrate 40 years together. It comes with everything they'll need to make the perfect impression, and it already has over 31,000 five-star reviews on Amazon.
Tabletop Decoration
Decorate your tabletop with this eye-catching pair of crystal hearts in a vibrant red shade — the traditional 40-year anniversary color. They're gold-plated and will look beautiful in any room.
40th Anniversary Porcelain Figurine
Celebrate your most precious moments with these adorable hand-painted figurines, which pay tribute to the day you were married. They're made of porcelain and are collectible, too, giving you an automatic idea for your 50th.
Stemless Wine Glass
You can't celebrate 40 years together without a great glass. Amazon buyers love this stemless wine option: "The quality of these glasses is terrific, and they're very easy to grip. They're not very heavy, either, even when you fill them to the brim with cheap wine," one Amazon reviewer wrote.
40th Anniversary Crystal
Add some sparkle to their home with this 40th anniversary crystal, which is shaped like a real ruby. It's hand-polished and has a luxury look for less, making it a perfect knickknack that costs less than $25!
Teardrop Earrings
She'll be over the moon for these stunning teardrop earrings with red cubic zirconia, which give a nod to tradition. They're real sterling silver, come gift-wrapped and we promise she'll be able to wear them for many other celebrations. Amazon reviewers say they're easy to wear and not too heavy — a common issue with dangly earrings.
Password Book With Tabs
40 years later, they're likely becoming more and more forgetful. Keep them from getting locked out of their important accounts with this gift, which even comes with tabs to keep them even more organized.
Van Gogh Reproduction
Whether Van Gogh is their favorite artist or you just want a gift for the traditional 40th anniversary flower, gladiolis, this reproduced canvas painting is a great value at under $15. It comes in three different sizes and can be hung right out of the box with its included hooks and backing.
Emerald Cut Ring
While her wedding ring will always be the most important, this gorgeous lab-created ruby number will become her second favorite. It's gold plated with a traditional emerald cut that's sure to fit her elegant style.
Ruby Anniversary Photo Frame
An anniversary this special deserves an extra special frame, so pop in a photo of your wedding day and your ruby anniversary and you're good to go. It's silver-plated, includes slots that'll easily fit standard-sized photos and it's just the thing to spruce up a tabletop.
Ruby Necklace
Your wife will never want to take off this beautiful lab-created ruby necklace. Its beautiful infinity symbol shape celebrates your love, and the sterling silver will never tarnish with regular wear.
40th Anniversary Heart
The beautiful pewter finish of this 40th anniversary heart, which is engraved with the year you were married, will warm theirs. And for an extra special touch, the beautiful crystal shaped like a ruby pays homage to 40 years together.
Pillow Cover
Measuring 18 x 18 inches, this gladiolus cover will add personality to their couch for years to come. It's made of linen and is also available in a smaller size that'll fit most pillows.
Glass Angel With Preserved Flowers
If she's the religious type, or just really likes roses, this glass angel is much more creative than a fresh bouquet. It comes with real preserved flowers that'll last three to five years without care, perfect for decorating the mantel.
40th Anniversary Cutting Board
A hit gift for the spouse who loves to cook, this bamboo cutting board comes engraved with fun facts from the year you were married. It has a traditional rectangular shape and plenty of space for cutting fruits, vegetables and more.
What is the traditional 40-year anniversary gift?
Rubies. The ruby symbolizes passion and devotion since its color is reminiscent of an eternal flame.
What are the modern 40-year anniversary gifts?
Rubies are both a modern and traditional gift, as well as the statement-making gladiolus flower.
What's the meaning behind other 40-year anniversary symbols?
Red symbolizes passion and energy.
Gladiolus flowers represent faithfulness and moral integrity.
Looking for more great anniversary gifts?
If you need more inspiration, we've got other anniversary gift guides for you to browse, each with their own traditional and modern themes, motifs and symbols.
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