Diamond Wedding Anniversary
A couple's diamond wedding anniversary is normally celebrated after they have been married for 60 years. In the past, it used to always be celebrated after 75 years of marriage. The change from 75 to 60 years is in part due to Queen Victoria in 1897 having celebrated her Diamond Jubilee on her 60th anniversary of accession to the throne. Nowadays, couples rarely reach 75 years of marriage anyway, because they are marrying later in life and divorce rates are higher.
Following a tradition started by King George V in 1917, any couple in the U.K., Australia, Canada, or New Zealand can receive a congratulatory message from the Queen for their 60th, 65th, and 70th (and every year after their 70th) wedding anniversaries. Note that this congratulatory message will not be sent automatically; it needs to be applied for in advance. Consider doing this as a surprise for your loved one(s)! For more information, go to the Wedding anniversaries section of the official website of The British Monarchy.