When it comes to anniversary gifts, you may already know what the traditional gift is for the more ‘common’ years. 1st anniversary is paper. 2nd anniversary calls for cotton.
But what about the less common years? More specifically, what’s the 11 year anniversary gift? The traditional gift for the 11 year anniversary is steel, a symbol of the strong bonds you share with your partner. The 11th anniversary gemstone is turquoise and its associated flower is the elegant and passionate tulip.
Here’s everything you need to know about the gift for an 11 year anniversary, including the theme, gemstone, and anniversary flower. Whether it’s for your beloved husband or darling wife, have a look through these unique gift ideas to get some inspiration for your anniversary present.
Traditional 11th Anniversary Gift – Steel
According to the list of traditional anniversary gifts by year, the 11 year anniversary gift is steel. This hard, tough metal is known for its durability and strength; the perfect metaphor for your marriage at this point. Through thick and thin, rain or shine, you’ve stayed true to each other and your matrimonial commitment is as strong as ever.
Steel is also known for its hardness and resistance to rusting. The two of you might be getting older, but you’re not old and rusty just yet! You’ve successfully passed the 11 year mark and are still going strong. Safe to say your love is made of steel.
11th Anniversary Gemstone – Turquoise
An undeniably beautiful stone, turquoise is one of the oldest stones in history. A French word meaning “Turkish stone”, turquoise is considered a stone of life, beauty, and good fortune.
The dazzling-blue green crystal is the gemstone for the 11 year anniversary for its protective powers. Aztec tribes used the decorative stone in their battle gear for its ability to provide warriors with protection from external forces. In a similar way, by year 11, your marriage has stayed strong against external forces and will continue to do so.
11th Anniversary Flower – Tulip
Believed by many to be the most romantic of flowers, elegant tulips are perfect flowers for any wedding anniversary, but especially for year 11. A signal for the arrival of spring, the blooming of tulips celebrate the beginning of your second decade as husband and wife.
Legend has it the tulip’s velvety black center represents a lover’s heart, darkened by the heat of passion. Deep romance and fiery passion – need I say more?
11th Anniversary Gift Ideas for Him (including Steel Anniversary Gifts)
Finding an anniversary gift for your husband is difficult enough. A lot of men claim “I don’t want anything, honey.” But when you’re trying to follow the traditional symbols for your 11th year of marriage, things can get even more tricky!
To help you find the perfect gift for him that says “Happy 11th Anniversary! I Steel Love You” here are some unique anniversary gifts he’ll really appreciate.
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Stainless Steel Whisky Stones
The ideal gift for whisky aficionados, a set of steel whiskey rocks, or whiskey stones, won’t go amiss. If he loves his whisky neat, these stainless steel stones will keep his whiskey chilled without diluting its flavour. They’re not just reusable – they’re also way more sophisticated than ice cubes. Pair it with his favourite bottle of whisky, and he’ll look like a total boss sipping his glass of liquid gold.
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Gentleman’s pocket knife
An essential item for every man’s pocket, a swanky new pocket knife is one of the best 11 year anniversary gifts out there. Whether he’s an outdoorsman or jack-of-all-trades, this practical gift is something he can use every day. Opt for a pocket knife that’s sophisticated and sleek but still gets the job done. Better yet, have it engraved with his initials or your anniversary date. He’ll be ready to take on the world with one of these by his side.
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Top Gear Adventure
So he’s a petrol head who’s seen every episode of Top Gear five times? Why not let him live out his dreams of becoming the next Jeremy Clarkson with a supercar getaway along the Stelvio Pass. Rated as the “best road in the world” by the Top Gear team, he’ll follow in their footsteps by navigating the finest driving routes Swiss Alps in the Ferrari 488 GTB. This is one 11 year anniversary gift he’ll never forget.
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Cocktail Masterclass
Whether he loves a Steelworks or any cocktail shaken not stirred, he’ll relish the chance to discover how to concoct his favourite cocktail. Learning the art of mixology from experts, a fun cocktail making class is a great gift experience to enjoy together on your 11th wedding anniversary. Have fun getting a bit competitive, infusing your favourite flavours and shaking things up in steel cocktail shakers.
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iPhone 11 Pro
His life will be forever changed if you finally do it and get him the iPhone 11 Pro. One of the best phones out there today, I’m sure I don’t need to tell you why this makes an incredible gift. But I do need to tell you that this particular model is made of glass and stainless steel. Yes, steel. An even more perfect gift to suit the occasion.
11th Anniversary Gift Ideas for Her (including Steel Anniversary Gifts)
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Fancy Flatware Set
A new set of cutlery makes for a great anniversary present – especially if the theme is stainless steel! If she takes pride in her home and has a taste for eye-catching designs, she’ll love this stainless steel egg-enclosed flatware set. Reminiscent of a Fabergé egg, MOOD By Christofle is a cult favourite that shakes up traditional tableware in a fun yet sophisticated way.
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Godiva Steel Sandals
Looking for a gorgeous gift for a fashion-forward Lady Godiva with a shoe addiction? It doesn’t get any sexier than these exclusive Godiva Steel sandals from Sergio Rossi. With a thin high heel made of metal, heads will turn as she struts her stuff in luxury pieces of couture footwear.
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Wonders of the World Adventure
As an expression of your undying love, whisk your wanderlust queen away on an unforgettable around-the-world holiday to see the New Seven Wonders of the World. As well as visiting other bucket list destinations like the Colosseum and Great Wall of China, she’ll visit the most romantic building in the world – the Taj Mahal.
While it’s most famous for its gleaming white marble, the structure features semiprecious stones in geometric and floral patterns, including turquoise. Remember how that’s the 11th anniversary gemstone? Could there a more fitting anniversary gift idea? I think not.
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Knife Skills Masterclass
If she’s already got a killer set of kitchen knives, this experience gift is just for her. Surprise her with a knife skills masterclass where she can sharpen her knife skills in the kitchen. She’ll learn cutting-edging knife techniques from her pro so that she chop, slice and dice like the professional chef you know she is. The perfect gift experience for the woman who doesn’t need any more stuff.
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Stainless Steel Espresso Cups
Is she one of those caffeine fiends who can’t function until she’s had her morning coffee hit? This steel gift – elegant steel espresso cups – are the perfect addition to her daily coffee ritual. Engineered to be elegantly stackable and easily storable, their sleek sophistication will make her want to show them off any chance she gets. Pair it with a stainless steel stovetop coffee maker to take her home coffee culture to a new level.
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Private Tour of Kew Gardens
With the 11th anniversary flower being tulips, treat her to a private guided tour of Kew Gardens. One of the most famous gardens in London, the multitude of colourful blooms and that picturesque glasshouse will take her breath away. To cap it off, she’ll be treated to a three-course meal at Michelin starred restaurant, The Glasshouse. A truly memorable anniversary gift for any women who loves fine dining and flora.
Your 11 year anniversary is a milestone celebration and deserves to be celebrated with a truly meaningful gift. Our list of steel anniversary gifts will help you express your love and devotion in all the right ways. Haven’t found exactly what you’re looking for? Have a look at our full list of unique anniversary gifts to find that perfect present.