7th-anniversary copper gift ideas
Copper is the traditional gift for seven years of marriage.
Why copper for the seventh year?
Each wedding anniversary has a traditional gift, and the seventh year has two: copper and wool. Copper is strong but easy to shape, which is why it's often said to stand for a marriage that has grown and changed over seven years and held together.
It also happens to make a good present. A well-made copper piece gets used, gets better looking with age, and tends to stay in the family.
Copper gift ideas
- A piece of copper cookware. One good saucepan or sauté pan is a gift that gets used for decades. Copper Cookware 101 explains what to look for.
- Copper mugs or barware. For mugs meant for citrus or other acidic drinks, choose ones lined with stainless steel or nickel.
- Something for the home. A vase, a planter, a tray or a lamp brings a warm color into a room. Browse copper home décor.
- Copper jewelry or a keepsake. A cuff, a pair of cufflinks or a small engraved piece is easy to wrap and easy to keep.
- Something for the garden. Outdoor copper slowly turns blue-green over the years, so the gift changes along with the marriage.
- A handmade piece. Work made by a coppersmith is one of a kind. We're building a featured artisans page for makers like these.
Not sure where to start? Our gift finder asks three quick questions and points you in a direction, or you can browse the copper gifts collection.
Before you buy
- Check that it's real copper. Some "copper" items are only copper colored or thinly plated. Here's how to tell real copper from plated.
- Think about upkeep. Copper darkens naturally. Some people love the patina and some prefer to polish. Our copper care guide covers both.
- For cookware, look at the lining. Copper pans are usually lined with tin or stainless steel, and each one cooks and wears a little differently.
Prefer the modern list?
The modern seventh-anniversary gift is a desk set. A copper pen holder or desk tray covers both lists at once.