An anniversary ring is a beautiful way to celebrate a milestone and add sparkle to the hand that already wears a wedding set. Whether you're marking year one or year sixty, here's how to choose a ring that honors the tradition and the moment.
The Traditional Anniversary Chart
The "traditional" anniversary gemstone list gives each year a stone: 1st — gold; 10th — diamond or tin; 15th — crystal; 20th — platinum; 25th — silver; 30th — pearl; 40th — ruby; 50th — gold; 60th — diamond. These are the classics, and they make for meaningful gifts — but they're a guide, not a mandate. You can always choose a ring that's simply beautiful, whatever the year.
Why an Anniversary Ring
An anniversary ring — also called a "right-hand ring" or an added band — is worn alongside your engagement and wedding rings, often on the other hand. It can be a stackable band, an eternity band, or a solitaire. It's a wearable, daily reminder of how far you've come together.
Early Anniversaries (1-9 Year): Stackable Gold Bands
In the early years, many couples add a simple gold or diamond band to their stack each year — building a meaningful stack over time. A thin yellow or rose gold band, or a delicate diamond-accent band, is affordable, versatile, and grows in meaning as the stack grows.
Major Milestones: The Big Statements
For the 10th (diamond), 25th (silver), or a special year, consider a solitaire right-hand ring or an eternity band. An eternity band — a full circle of pavé diamonds — symbolizes endless love and is a beloved 10th and 25th anniversary choice. A lab-grown diamond makes these milestones even more rewarding: you can afford a bigger, brighter stone for your milestone without the premium price.
Matching Wedding Sets
If you're marking an anniversary by adding to your original set, choose a band that complements your engagement ring — a curved band that nests beside it, or a matching metal. Matching the metal of your stack keeps the look cohesive and intentional.
Make It Personal
The best anniversary ring reflects your story. Engrave a date or initials inside the band. Choose a stone with personal meaning — a birthstone, an anniversary gem, or a diamond in your favorite shape. A personal touch turns a lovely ring into a treasure.
Whatever the year, an anniversary ring is a celebration of love that's earned you, and it should make you smile every time you look at your hand. Lara Jewels works with couples to find or design rings for every milestone.
