Bronze
Bronze is created by combining copper and tin. Bronze anniversary gifts are symbolic of a strong marriage that is created by the joining of two different individuals who come together as one.
Pottery
There is much symbolism behind pottery. One thought is that marriage begins as a lump of clay that over time is slowly formed and shaped into something beautiful. Another interpretation is that pottery vessels carry water and other sustenance and represent the sustainability of the partnership. Pottery is also a symbol of the ninth year anniversary.
Lace
A modern eighth wedding anniversary gift of linens or lace can be a practical gift or a luxurious one. Lace signifies refined beauty and elegance, just like a marriage exemplifies polished and perfected love woven together over time. The passage of eight years as a wedded couple has symbolically created a delicate but strong object of beauty (in the “traditional” wedding gift timeline, lace is usually given on the 13th wedding anniversary).
Gemstone and Color
Tourmaline and tanzanite are the gemstones associated with the eighth wedding anniversary. Tanzanite is a deep cobalt blue or ultra-deep violet color. Tourmaline can come in a wide variety of colors from blue and green to brown and yellow. Several colors represent eight years of marriage. The colors associated with these gems, and the color bronze, all represent this anniversary.
Flowers
There are two flowers associated with the eighth wedding anniversary: clematis and lilac. Clematis is a beautiful climber that traditionally means clever and intellectual. Lilac symbolizes the emotions of young love; purple lilacs symbolize the strong emotions of falling in love and white lilacs represent youthful innocence and confidence. Oftentimes mixed bouquets of purple and white lilacs are given on this anniversary.
8th Anniversary Gift Ideas
Traditional
Bronze photo frame with the picture of the two of you Purchase a bronze framed share of stock in a major company that has meaning to both of you Bronze bookends Bronze sculpture Bronze door knocker Bronze wind chimes Bronze furniture, such as a small drum-shaped side table Bronze monogrammed cufflinks Pottery items for the house or vase (make it yourself, if you can) Ceramic serving bowl with family name or monogram Ceramic monogrammed ring dish Ceramic dinnerware set with embossed lace pattern, a mix of traditional and modern Tourmaline or tanzanite jewelry Flower-themed gifts including lilac or clematis (fragrant candles, art print, perfume, plants)
Modern
Lace gloves or garmentLace matching loungewear or pajamasA soft, cuddly blanketLinen beddingLace tableclothMonogrammed linen napkinsLinen-scented room spray or candle
Unique 8th Anniversary Celebrations
One way to celebrate your eight-year anniversary is by working together to make something new and exciting. Since one of the eighth-anniversary traditional gifts is pottery, create something special for your home together. Go to a pottery class, sit at the potter’s wheel together, and see what you can design. Try a jewelry-design class and create bronze pieces you both can wear to commemorate your anniversary. Another special treat can be a gardening project working together to plant a clematis vine in your yard. Clematis is called the “queen of vines” because it makes such a spectacular show when in full bloom. Playing on the “eight” of your anniversary year, make it a night out and play eight-ball pool. Visit eight special spots around town together or go foodie hopping at eight stops you’ve been meaning to try.
