The History and Meaning of 5th Wedding Anniversary Gifts

When a couple reaches their 5th wedding anniversary, they’ve crossed a meaningful milestone—one that reflects deepening commitment, growth, and a rooted foundation for the future. Unlike the glitter of the first or the prestige of the tenth, the 5th anniversary carries an earthy symbolism that’s both grounding and poetic: wood.

But how did wood become the traditional material for 5-year anniversaries? What does it symbolize? And how can couples today honor this meaningful gift tradition in modern and personal ways?

In this blog post, we’ll explore the history behind 5th anniversary gifts, the significance of wood, and how thoughtful, handcrafted items—like those from Liel and Lentz—can beautifully represent your enduring love.

A Brief History of Anniversary Gift Traditions

The concept of giving symbolic anniversary gifts dates back to the Middle Ages in Central Europe, where milestones in marriage were celebrated with gifts that symbolized the growing strength and value of the relationship.

The practice became more widely recognized in the Victorian era, where milestone anniversaries were matched with specific materials: paper for the 1st, silver for the 25th, gold for the 50th, and so on. These symbolic gifts grew in popularity and were eventually formalized in the 20th century by etiquette guides, such as Emily Post’s 1922 book on manners, which listed materials for each year from the 1st to the 15th, and then every five years after that.

Wood was designated for the 5th year, symbolizing a relationship that is growing stronger, rooted in stability, and branching out into new experiences.

Why Is Wood the Traditional 5th Anniversary Gift?

Wood carries timeless symbolism in both nature and culture:

• Strength and Durability: Trees weather storms, adapt with the seasons, and remain standing for decades—or even centuries. A marriage that reaches five years reflects a similar strength.

• Growth and Renewal: Just like trees grow rings over time, couples accumulate shared memories and evolve together. Wood represents that ongoing growth.

• Roots and Connection: A well-established tree has deep roots—symbolic of the emotional foundation and stability that define a thriving marriage.

These powerful meanings make wood an ideal way to honor five years of partnership. Giving a wood gift isn’t just traditional—it’s a meaningful gesture that says, we’re strong, we’ve grown, and we’re just getting started.

Bringing the Tradition Into the Present: Modern Wood Anniversary Gifts

Today’s couples are seeking more intentional and modern interpretations of traditional gift themes. A wood cutting board may feel impersonal—unless it’s customized. A piece of furniture may not suit every lifestyle. That’s where thoughtful, wearable, and symbolically rich wood jewelry steps in.

Why Wood Jewelry?

• It’s meaningful, yet modern.

• It blends the traditional (wood) with personal style.

• It’s a lasting keepsake that can be worn daily or for special occasions.

• It allows for added symbolism—especially when combined with gemstones that represent deeper emotions or milestones.

At Liel and Lentz, wood is not just a material—it’s a design philosophy. Using Pau Ferro wood, known for its deep colour and natural lustre, Liel and Lentz crafts wood-based jewelry with natural gemstones and minimalist elegance, creating heirloom-quality pieces perfect for a 5th anniversary.

Three Wood Anniversary Gift Ideas That Carry Deep Meaning

Here are three standout Liel and Lentz pieces that blend tradition, beauty, and symbolism:

1. 5 Blue Sapphire Bar – Silver

This necklace elegantly blends Pau Ferro wood with five blue sapphires—each gemstone symbolizing a year of marriage. Blue sapphire traditionally represents loyalty, wisdom, and inner peace, which are exactly the qualities a couple develops over the course of five years together. The use of silver adds a cool-toned modern edge, and the vertical layout creates a sleek, minimalist statement that works with any wardrobe.

2. Onyx Wood Men’s Bracelet

For him, this bracelet combines the grounding, timeless appeal of Pau Ferro wood with powerful onyx stones—believed to provide protection and strengthen emotional stability. It’s a sophisticated gift for a partner who appreciates understated luxury and symbolic depth. The dark tones and polished finish make this piece as stylish as it is meaningful.

3. Engravable Gold Bar Bracelet

If you want to personalize your 5th anniversary gift, this sleek gold bar bracelet with a Pau Ferro wood inlay can be engraved with initials, a date, or a meaningful word. The fusion of metal and wood reflects the union of tradition and modern style—ideal for a partner who values thoughtful details. Plus, it makes for a deeply personal keepsake they’ll cherish long after your anniversary has passed.

Honouring Tradition, Your Way

While the tradition of wood is rooted in history, the most meaningful anniversary gifts are those that feel true to you as a couple.

Some couples exchange personal letters written on wood-accented stationery. Others go for a weekend retreat in a cabin, surrounded by nature. And others opt for beautiful, lasting jewelry that quietly says, I see you, I love you, and I’m grateful for what we’ve built.

The beauty of the 5th anniversary lies in its balance of tradition and personalization—something that Liel and Lentz jewelry captures with timeless design and natural materials.

FAQ: 5th Anniversary Gift Questions 

Q: Why is wood the 5th anniversary gift?
A: Wood symbolizes strength, growth, and deep roots—perfectly representing a relationship that has matured over five years.

Q: What are modern wood anniversary gifts for her?
A: Wood jewelry with gemstone inlays, such as pendants or earrings, makes a meaningful and modern gift that blends tradition with beauty.

Q: What should I get my husband for our 5th anniversary?
A: A handcrafted wood bracelet—like Liel and Lentz’s Jade Wood or Blue Calcite styles—makes a stylish and symbolic gift he’ll wear proudly.

Q: Is it okay to give non-wood gifts for the 5th anniversary?
A: Absolutely! Many couples blend traditional and modern ideas. For example, you could gift wood jewelry accented with meaningful gemstones.

Q: Where can I find unique 5th anniversary gifts online?
A: Liel and Lentz offers a curated collection of handcrafted wood and gemstone jewelry, made with love in Canada and designed specifically for milestone anniversaries.

Conclusion: A Milestone Worth Marking Meaningfully

The 5th wedding anniversary is about more than just checking a box—it’s a celebration of your shared journey, the strength of your connection, and the deep roots you’ve grown together.

Whether you honor this tradition with a nature-inspired getaway, heartfelt letter, or symbolic piece of jewelry, the key is choosing something meaningful to you both.

Ready to celebrate your 5 years together with a modern, timeless gift? Explore handcrafted wood anniversary jewelry at Liel and Lentz, and find the piece that perfectly captures your story.