85th Wedding Anniversary
Traditional, Modern and Symbolic Anniversary Gifts
Below is a list of both traditional and modern gift materials, as well as classic flower and gemstone symbols, which mark a couple’s 85th wedding anniversary in countries around the world…
| Traditional Gift – UK |  | Wine |
| Traditional Gift – US |  | Moonstone |
| Traditional Gift – Australia |  | Wine |
| Traditional Gift – Canada |  | Moonstone |
| Traditional Gift – Spain |  | Marble |
| Traditional Gift – Germany |  | Angel Theme |
| Traditional Gift – France |  | Morganite |
| Traditional Gift – Italy |  | Marble |
| Flower Gift |  | No Traditional Flower |
| Gemstone Gift |  | Moonstone |
| Modern Gift |  | Birthstones |
About 85th Wedding Anniversaries
This 85th wedding anniversary is so gloriously rare that it deserves an especially affectionate toast, to the couple’s long lives and loving devotion. Fortunately, if you have family in this remarkable situation, there are at least two traditional symbols to help you decide on an appropriate gift. The classic gemstone is moonstone – and another symbolic gift is wine.
It is not quite clear why wine enjoys this popular symbolism, but perhaps it came about because, after 85 years together, both partners deserve to let their hair down. Just a little, of course, as people over the age of 100 are not typically big drinkers. Nevertheless, still ample reason to buy an expensive bottle of wine (or two) for them to share with their closest family members and friends.
The original reason for this tradition has become lost over time, and classic wedding anniversary gift lists do not list any specific flower, gemstone or other symbolic material for the 85th.
However, with the advent of modern medicines and treatments, people are living longer and marriages are also lasting longer. Subsequently, in recent years, new gift ideas have been devised for wedding anniversaries from the 75th and above.
Gift Ideas for the Couple
At this age, it is important to make sure you take into account the special needs of the elderly couple. Many will not be all that keen for a party that is too frenetic, so it is advisable to consult with them when planning an event and before going ahead with any celebration that might make them feel uncomfortable. In short, make sure you are always sensitive to their situation and preferences.
One thing you can do, as a surprise, is to invite local dignitaries and journalists, and even national press representatives, to join you for the celebrations and take advantage of a rare photo opportunity. After all, stories like this don’t come along every day – and readers relish a happy tale, especially during otherwise difficult times.
The significance of this 85th wedding anniversary is also warmly appreciated by the King, who will be delighted to send a letter of congratulations to the couple, if they live in the UK or Commonwealth countries.