Is Pottery 8Th Or 9Th Anniversary?
The tradition of giving anniversary gifts dates back centuries and has its origins in medieval Germany. Couples would celebrate milestone anniversaries by exchanging gifts made from specific materials that symbolized the strength of their relationship after each year of marriage (1). The tradition became popular in the Victorian era and over time certain materials became associated with each anniversary year in what became known as the traditional anniversary gift list, ranging from 1st (paper) to 75th (diamond). While the traditional list is still well known today, a modern anniversary gift list was introduced in the 1950s with more contemporary gift ideas. Both lists are still commonly referenced, though couples today have much more freedom to exchange personalized, meaningful gifts of their choosing for each anniversary year.
8th Anniversary
The 8th wedding anniversary represents strength and stability in a marriage. Traditionally, bronze or pottery were given as 8th anniversary gifts because of their durability and robustness. The modern 8th anniversary gift theme is bronze or linen/lace. Linen and lace symbolize longevity, intimacy, and purity in a relationship that has endured and flourished. Bronze reflects the marriage’s durability and an unyielding bond that has grown over time. The colors for 8th year celebrations are bronze and brown.
According to Good Housekeeping, bronze is significant for an 8th anniversary because it represents “the melding of copper and tin”. This merging embodies how two become one in a lasting marriage.
Traditional 8th Anniversary Gift
The traditional gift materials for the 8th wedding anniversary are bronze and pottery. According to tradition, appropriate 8th anniversary gifts are items made from either bronze or pottery.
Bronze and pottery gifts are rooted in the practice of giving gifts associated with each year of marriage. The traditional materials gifts by year are: 1st anniversary (paper), 2nd anniversary (cotton), 3rd anniversary (leather), 4th anniversary (fruit & flowers), 5th anniversary (wood), 6th anniversary (candy/iron), 7th anniversary (copper/wool), 8th anniversary (bronze/pottery), 9th anniversary (pottery/willow), 10th anniversary (tin/aluminum), etc.
Bronze is an alloy consisting primarily of copper and tin. Bronze items symbolize strength and durability for the marriage after 8 years together. Pottery represents creativity and flexibility. Pottery gifts like vases, mugs, and bowls can be homemade as well. Both bronze and pottery convey a message of craftsmanship and artistry for this milestone anniversary.
Modern 8th Anniversary Gift
The modern gift for the 8th wedding anniversary is linens or lace. This replaced the traditional bronze gift. Linens and lace represent a refined and delicate bond between the couple after 8 years of marriage.
Lace first emerged as a popular material in the 15th century. Valued for its delicate designs and intricate patterns, lace symbolizes the complex and sophisticated bond between two people. Exchanging gifts of lace demonstrates a mature love that has grown more nuanced over time (ForeverAnniversary).
Linens also carry symbolic meaning for 8th anniversary gifts. Linens represent domestic comfort and the home life established after years together. Quality linens and bedding reinforce the couple’s deepening commitment to their relationship and family (TheKnot).
Popular modern 8th anniversary gifts include lace lingerie, embroidered linens, monogrammed pillowcases or towels, lace trimmings, and handmade doilies or table runners.
9th Anniversary
The 9th wedding anniversary represents trust, strength, and flexibility. By this year, the couple’s relationship has withstood the test of time and likely undergone several life changes and challenges. The number nine is associated with wisdom and spiritual enlightenment. Reaching the 9 year milestone shows the couple’s commitment to supporting one another and growing together.
According to tradition, the 9th anniversary gifts are pottery and willow. Pottery symbolizes the malleability of clay just like the flexibility needed in a strong marriage. Willow represents strength, tenacity, and resilience to bend without breaking. Both pottery and willow signify the couple’s ability to withstand challenges while remaining deeply connected.
Some modern 9th anniversary gift ideas are copper, leather, and glass. Copper signifies warmth and conductivity representing the emotional connection between the couple. Leather is durable yet pliable embodying the flexible bond. And glass reflects clarity and openness in communication. Overall the 9th anniversary gifts emphasize compassion, compromise, wisdom, and harmony in the maturing relationship.
Traditional 9th Anniversary Gift
The traditional material gift for the 9th wedding anniversary is pottery or willow. Pottery and willow have symbolic meaning for the 9th anniversary. Pottery represents beauty, fulfillment and service – apt sentiments for being together 9 years. The flexibility and strength of willow represents resilience, which is fitting for a marriage that has weathered 9 years. 1
Pottery anniversary gifts can include mugs, platters, bowls, vases, plates, ceramic figurines or decorative pieces. For the willow 9th anniversary, popular gift ideas are willow baskets, wreaths or trees. Either pottery or willow makes for meaningful 9th anniversary presents.
Modern 9th Anniversary Gift
The modern gift for a 9th wedding anniversary is leather. Leather goods such as wallets, handbags, briefcases, and jackets are popular modern 9th anniversary gifts. Leather accessories like belts, shoes, gloves, and jewelry are also appropriate.
Leather is a modern take on the traditional 9th anniversary gift of willow, which represents flexibility and durability. Like willow, leather is a strong, flexible material that becomes more beautiful over time. Leather goods last for many years and represent the couple’s enduring marriage.
Some modern 9th anniversary leather gift ideas include:
- Leather weekend bag or duffle
- Designer leather purse or wallet
- Leather jacket with a personalization
- Leather briefcase or padfolio
- Leather watch strap or band
- Leather journal or photo album
No matter which leather item is chosen, this modern gift is both practical and symbolic for a 9th anniversary.
Key Differences Between the 8th and 9th Anniversary Gifts
There are some notable differences between the traditional and modern gifts for the 8th and 9th wedding anniversaries.
For the 8th anniversary, the traditional gift is bronze, while the modern gift is pottery or china. Bronze is meant to symbolize strength and durability after 8 years together. Pottery and china, on the other hand, represent how the relationship has been shaped and molded over time.
For the 9th anniversary, the traditional gifts are pottery and willow. Pottery again reflects the molding and shaping of the relationship, while willow represents flexibility and resilience. The modern 9th anniversary gift is leather, symbolizing durability and protection.
So in summary, the traditional 8th anniversary gift focuses on strength and longevity, while the 9th centers on flexibility and how the relationship has been shaped. The modern gifts move towards more functional items like pottery, china, and leather goods. Overall, both years represent significant relationship milestones worthy of recognition through meaningful gifts.
Recommendations
When shopping for high quality pottery gifts for an 8th or 9th anniversary, consider looking on Etsy for unique, handmade items. Many artisans on Etsy create beautiful, personalized pottery gifts like mugs, vases, dishes, and figurines. For a 9th anniversary specifically, Meghan Bergman has a lovely collection of handmade pottery anniversary gifts including stoneware dishes, platters, and pitchers. You can even customize items with names or special dates.
Another idea is to purchase higher end pottery from brands like Le Creuset or Staub. Useful kitchen items like dutch ovens or serving platters make wonderful 8th or 9th anniversary gifts. Or consider gifting decorative pottery like an amphora vase or ceramic animal statue from Anthropologie. The key is choosing a meaningful, high quality pottery item that fits your spouse’s interests.
Conclusion
In summary, pottery makes for a thoughtful and meaningful gift for either an 8th or 9th wedding anniversary. The traditional 8th anniversary gift is bronze or pottery, while the traditional 9th anniversary gift is pottery or willow. Pottery is a flexible option that captures the spirit of both years. Whether you choose a gorgeous handmade vase, custom mugs, or a personalized keepsake box, pottery is sure to delight. Most importantly, select a gift that resonates with your partner’s interests and your relationship. An anniversary gift is a cherished reminder of your love, commitment and the memories you share.
