Les Miserables author Victor Hugo once wrote that "Forty is the old age of youth; fifty the youth of old age." As we see it, that makes 50 the prime of life. Our 50th birthday gift ideas acknowledge that the recipients have earned the right to some youthful leisure, while keeping in mind the well-developed tastes that come with maturity.
Jewelry
Gold is the gift traditionally given for a 50th wedding anniversary, and we see no reason why that shouldn't apply to 50th birthdays too. Gold necklaces, earrings, rings, and other jewelry designs are perfect if you wish to make a classic gift statement.
Health and beauty products
At age 50, the small pleasures in life take on greater value and significance. Our health and beauty section contains a wealth of 50th birthday gift ideas, including fragrances, cosmetics, and hair and skin care products.
Home and garden products
Working in the garden or displaying beautiful works of art in one's home are two pleasures a 50-year-old can appreciate. Look for birthday gifts in our home and garden products area such as home furnishings, gardening tools, and wall art.
HDTV
The U.S. government has made it mandatory that all television broadcasts go digital by February of 2009. Giving a new high-definition television as a 50th birthday gift will help your recipient get a head start on the latest digital technologies.
Home weather stations
People like to joke that the older we get, the more interested we become in the weather. Home weather stations are 50th birthday gifts that can make a hobby out of a casual interest. Home weather stations are a fun way to monitor local temperature, humidity, and other readings, or even connect to weather-watchers across the globe via the Internet.
Wine sets
It's said that life, like wine, improves with age, which is one reason wine sets are classic 50th birthday gifts. Share a lovely vintage with your loved one this year.
Gift baskets
Sometimes a medley of 50th birthday gifts is preferable to just one. The selection of gift baskets at BirthdayGifts.com includes gourmet food and snack items.
If your 50-year-old has a favorite store, a gift card might be a smart birthday gift idea. After all, spoiling yourself once in a while is one of the pleasures of being a grownup.