Why Is Wood the 5th Anniversary Gift? Meaning, Symbolism, and Modern Interpretations

Reaching your 5th wedding anniversary is no small feat. It marks half a decade of shared laughter, personal growth, life challenges, and countless cherished memories. But one question often comes up when couples hit this milestone: why is wood the traditional 5th anniversary gift?

The answer lies in symbolism — and for many modern couples, understanding the meaning behind the material adds an extra layer of thoughtfulness to their gift. At Liel and Lentz, we’ve reimagined this tradition through elegant wood jewelry, blending time-honoured sentiment with contemporary style. Here’s everything you need to know about the symbolism of wood for your 5th anniversary — and how to make the tradition truly your own.

The Origins of Traditional Anniversary Gifts

The idea of giving specific gifts for each wedding anniversary dates back centuries. In Victorian England, and later through American commercial culture, gift lists were created to align with the growth of a marriage — starting with delicate materials like paper and cotton, and gradually progressing toward more enduring ones like silver, gold, and diamond.

By the 5th year, wood enters the tradition as a symbol of stability and strength. It's a turning point — a celebration of a relationship that’s no longer new, but well-rooted and flourishing.

What Does Wood Symbolize in a Marriage?

The symbolism of wood is rich and multi-layered, which makes it the perfect representation for five years of marriage. Here’s why:

1. Strength and Durability

Just like the trees it's derived from, wood stands the test of time. After five years together, a couple has weathered storms and stood tall — resilient, steady, and strong.

2. Natural Growth

Wood signifies natural progression — a relationship that has deepened and matured over time. Its grain patterns echo the uniqueness of every love story.

3. Roots and Connection

Trees don’t just grow upward; they grow downward too. The roots of a tree anchor it in place — just like shared values and experiences anchor a marriage.

Modern Interpretations of the Wood Anniversary

While the symbolism of wood is timeless, many couples today are looking for more refined or creative ways to express it. Traditional wood gifts like carvings, bowls, or cutting boards may not feel personal enough — and that’s where modern wood jewelry steps in.

Wood jewelry offers the best of both worlds: it honours the tradition of wood while elevating the experience with style, significance, and wearability.

Why Pau Ferro Wood Is the Perfect 5th Anniversary Material

At Liel and Lentz, we specialize in handcrafted wood jewelry made with Pau Ferro wood, a rich, beautifully grained hardwood native to South America. It’s known for its strength, smooth polish, and unique tone variation — ranging from golden brown to deep mocha.

Unlike generic wooden gifts, Pau Ferro wood pieces are elegant, long-lasting, and truly one-of-a-kind, just like your relationship.

Top Wood Jewelry Gift Ideas for Your 5th Anniversary

Looking for something that checks both the traditional and modern boxes? These meaningful, stylish gifts from Liel and Lentz are perfect ways to say, “I love you more than ever.”

1. 5 Diamond Round Necklace 

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Five sparkling diamonds, one for each year together, are set into a sleek Pau Ferro pendant. Diamonds symbolize endurance, love, and clarity — making this piece a double celebration of strength.

2. Mini Heart Necklace 

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Simple yet full of heart. This dainty Pau Ferro wood heart with gold trim is a delicate way to show your love — traditional, but with a modern twist.

3. Jade Wood Men's Bracelet

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For him: a masculine, meaningful bracelet that pairs green jade — symbol of harmony and luck — with Pau Ferro wood. Easy to wear, and full of symbolism.

Double the Meaning: Gemstones in Wood Jewelry

Want to elevate the symbolism even further? Liel and Lentz’s wood jewelry often features natural gemstones, which each carry their own emotional and historical meanings. When combined with wood, these stones add depth and personal resonance to your 5th anniversary gift.

Here are a few standout examples:

1. Blue Sapphire – Loyalty & Wisdom

The 5 Blue Sapphire Bar necklace honours five years with five rich blue sapphires set in Pau Ferro wood — a bold tribute to loyalty, trust, and strength.
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2. White Moonstone – Connection & Intuition

Featured in our Moonstone wood pieces, this gem is known for nurturing emotional connection. Perfect for celebrating the intuitive bond that deepens over five years.

3. Pink Moonstone – Love & Inner Peace

Gentle and soothing, pink moonstone is often used to symbolize affection and harmony. A favourite for couples who have grown through life’s ups and downs.

4. Green Jade – Harmony & Luck

Often used in men’s pieces, jade represents a long, lucky life together. Paired with Pau Ferro, it becomes a meaningful reminder of both tradition and blessings.

5. Kyanite – Communication & Balance

For couples who prioritize open dialogue and understanding, kyanite’s calming blue hues represent clear communication — a pillar of any lasting relationship.

6. White Sapphire – Honesty & Clarity

A contemporary favourite, white sapphire symbolizes transparency and sincerity. It’s often chosen for gifts that speak to emotional growth over five years.

7. Yellow Sapphire – Joy & Prosperity

Our 5 Yellow Sapphire Round Necklace brings warmth and optimism to your anniversary celebration. Yellow sapphire is believed to attract prosperity, happiness, and strong bonds — all reflected in this stunning five-stone Pau Ferro pendant.
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Final Thoughts: Honouring Love with Meaning

The 5th anniversary is more than a milestone — it’s a moment to reflect on how far you’ve come and how deep your connection has grown. Wood, with its enduring symbolism, provides the perfect way to mark that journey. And when paired with hand-selected gemstones, it becomes something truly personal and unforgettable.

At Liel and Lentz, we craft every piece with intention — so that your gift doesn’t just look beautiful, but tells a story. Celebrate your 5th year with a gift that’s rooted in tradition, rich in meaning, and designed for the years still to come.

Explore our full 5th Anniversary Collection for meaningful jewelry gifts that blend Pau Ferro wood and natural gemstones in a way that’s truly unforgettable.