To help you find the perfect gift, we researched the best 40th anniversary gifts, both modern and traditional, considering the interests of the intended recipient and the budget of the gift giver. Our favorite picks include adorable ruby studs from Macy’s, a personalized anniversary journal from Uncommon Goods, and a BloomsyBox Subscription for fresh flowers delivered right to your door every month. Here are the best 40th anniversary gifts. Compared to other jewelry gifts, these add a fun pop of color to any wardrobe without being too flashy. Users note that the studs are small yet sparkly for an understated shine. Some claim they are a bit more pink than red, but either way, the color is sure to impress and spark conversation. Price at time of publish: $200 Price at time of publish: $30 Price at time of publish: $399 Price at time of publish: $130 Price at time of publish: $36 for 5 x 7 unframed print Price at time of publish: $160 for 8" x 10" Price at time of publish: $40 Price at time of publish: $24 Price at time of publish: $75 unframed Price at time of publish: $99 Price at time of publish: $5 Price at time of publish: $173 Price at time of publish: $155 Price at time of publish: $60 Price at time of publish: $48 Price at time of publish: $150 Price at time of publish: $39 Price at time of publish: $19 for 1-2 business day delivery Price at time of publish: $215 Price at time of publish: $38 for 8.5" x 11" unframed Price at time of publish: $50
Traditional Versus Untraditional
Ruby and garnet might be the predominant present idea for a couple’s 40th anniversary, but you don’t have to stick with the status quo. Ultimately, the decision rests in the recipient’s tastes. If you think the recipient would prefer something more traditional, opt for a ruby-adorned gift. But, if they prefer something more atypical, think about the recipient’s hobbies. Music fans might love a high-end speaker, while travel enthusiasts might enjoy a fancy tome about their favorite destination.
Price
Fortunately, 40th anniversary presents are available in a range of prices: you can pick up a thoughtful card for just a few dollars or spend a couple hundred on a standout gift. Though it’s always important to keep your budget top of mind, you’ll also want to consider how close you are with the couple. You might be inclined to treat your family members or close friends to a pricier gift, while a thoughtful card might suffice for work colleagues or acquaintances.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This roundup was written by Patrice J. Williams. She has contributed gift guides to The Spruce since 2020. She loves helping her friends and family find unique, thoughtful, and wallet-friendly presents. In addition to her work for The Spruce, she writes commerce articles, including product suggestions and reviews, for other outlets as well as appearing on air for The Today Show, WEtv, and she was the Savvy Shopper reporter for WPIX in New York City. Additional reporting was done by Kelsey Mulvey, who has contributed décor and lifestyle content to The Wall Street Journal, Business Insider, Real Simple, Wallpaper*, Elle Decor, MyDomaine, and AD PRO.