25 Best Sentimental Graduation Gifts for Best Friends 

Graduation means a lot to many people, including our besties. After all, they have gone through ups and downs while gaining knowledge, including passing the bar exam and thesis defense. For such accomplishments, it would be a wonderful gesture to give sentimental graduation gifts for best friends on their special day. Also, it is probably one of the best ways to commemorate the occasion. The prefect graduation gift carries a deep sentimental value, especially since it carries our best wishes for the receivers. It’s like a form of appreciation that will touch the heart of whoever opens their hands to it.

Moreover, sentimental graduation gifts for friends are prompted by feelings of tenderness and nostalgia, which means a lot to them. For that reason, we have listed 25 best sentimental graduation gifts for best friends to leave unforgettable memories that will last forever.

There are jewels, ornaments, gift cards, decoration stuff, and other items that will help bring out your true feelings.

Sentimental Graduation Gifts for Male Best Friends

Sentimental graduation gifts for best friends are encouraged, including for your male best friends. Here we have created a list full of sentimental graduation gifts for male best friends.

The list includes various items such as knick-knacks made of stainless steel, photo frames, graduation journals, and all things that feature masculine elements. Moreover, the following items will also help them become a more productive man!

1. Cuban Chain Necklace

Cuban chain necklace

Category: Personalized, handmade
Materials: Stainless steel
Size:
– Pendant: 1.36 x 0.19 x 0.19 inches
– Chain length: 24 inches

Let’s start the list with this Custom Bar Necklace for Males. It has a bar-shaped pendant whose design is timeless and will effortlessly match every style of the wearers. In addition, the available colors, such as gold, black, and silver, provide more options to match the style of the friend who will receive the gift. The black color looks bold for those with olive skin, while the silver will shine on dark-tone skin color.

Meanwhile, gold is probably the best option for all skin types and radiates a luxurious feel. You don’t have to worry about its durability because the stainless steel raw material guarantees anti-rust.

Thanks to its simple and contemporary design, the necklace is definitely one of the most excellent sentimental graduation gifts for your male best friends.

2. Graduation Hat Frame

Graduation Hat Frame

Category: Hand-painted
Materials: Porcelain
Size:
– Frame: 4.75 x 4.5 x 0.75 inches
– Picture: 3 x 3 inches
Weight: 0.3 lbs

Sometimes, we might get confused about buying the best graduation gifts for best friends because there are too many options are available. But consider purchasing this unique graduation hat frame as a perfect graduation gift for a male best friend! It is made of porcelain and hand-painted, so it looks unique and special for the recipient.

In our opinion, the neutral combination of black and broken white can easily match any home interior as well. Thus, your friend can display it as a wall decoration in the living or dorm room.

Moreover, you can give this thoughtful gift without your best friend’s photo inside. However, we recommend making a mini caricature or painting and placing it in a photo frame to make it feel more meaningful. Besides, He can also use it to showcase his graduation photo later.

3. Graduation Cap Bottle Topper

Graduation Cap Bottle Topper

Category: Handmade
Materials: Acrylic wool
Size:
– Cap: 2.2 x 2.2 x 1.2 inches
– Diameter of bottle opening: up to 2 inches

Looking for a practical and sentimental graduation gift for a special male best friend? We think this bottle topper might be one of the most unique graduation gift ideas! Of course, it will be a perfect gift for your male besties who love to drink to celebrate their special occasions.

Moreover, in our opinion the funny graduation cap-shaped topper will liven up the cheerful vibes and help your friend cover the opened beer bottle.

Not to mention the dark color of the cap, which keeps it away from looking dirty when your friend accidentally spills his beer. Moreover, the tiny size allows easy cleaning and storage in the kitchen. In addition, it is handmade using acrylic wool and is very well-crafted. Considering the design, you can give it as a gift to your female friends.

4. Graduation Minifigure

Graduation Minifigure

Category: Handmade, personalized
Materials: LEGO, plastics, ink

It is a male mini-figure that will be a sentimental graduation gift for your friend to celebrate his big accomplishment. This LEGO character depicts a man who is proud after graduation by holding a graduation certificate. Thus, we think it will touch your friend’s heart dearly.

From an aesthetic point of view, the yellow color for the limbs makes this character stand out. The color also depicts cheerfulness, making it suitable as a gift displayed inside a glass cabinet. Even cooler, the head can also be customized according to the characteristics of your friends, too. Plus, the mini size makes it easy to pack. With such features, we think this mini figure can be considered one of best friends’ most sentimental graduation gifts.

5. Graduation Ornament

Graduation Ornament

Category: Handmade, personalized
Materials: Acrylic, wood
Size: 3.5 x 3.75 inches

This graduation ornament is a must-have sentimental gift for either male or female besties because it has a simple design yet worth displaying. They can keep it as a little keepsake or graduation party decoration at home. Personally, we think that the small size also makes it easy to hang on Christmas tree if they happen to graduate before Christmas.

Moreover, acrylic or wood materials ensure its durability. So, you don’t have to worry if you want to keep it as a keepsake for years! You can add a name, class of the year, degree of study, and school name to make it more personalized and memorable.

6. Graduation Gift Card Box 

Graduation Gift Card Box 

Category: Commercial
Materials: Card-stock
Size: 12 x 12 inches

This graduation gift card box is simple yet it makes a perfect sentimental graduation gift for your best friend. It has a written word, saying “Congrats, Grad!” that depicts happiness to celebrate one of the historic days in your friend’s life. Also, the colorful boxes also add to the festive impression of this graduation celebration.

When a person is graduating, they usually receive hundreds of gift cards. For that reason, we think this box will be perfect for storing those memory cards.

You can help your friends by arranging this box on the patio. So, when friends come to the celebration, they can immediately put the greeting card into the box. Also, it can be used as an additional graduation party decoration!

7. Pop Up Graduation Card 

Pop Up Graduation Card

Category: Handmade, Customized
Materials: Acid-free cardstock
Size:
– Box: 3 x 3 x 7.5 inches
– Envelope: 6 x 8 inches

This one is another simple, fun, and sentimental college graduation gift for a best friend! Let them know that you also have the same excitement as they are by surprising them with this creative pop-up graduation card! The card features a 3D design with a name, graduation year, and graduation greeting that touches the heart. Let alone the innovative decoration with a bright yellow color that makes this simple box look more festive.

With such design, even your friends who don’t usually like festive celebrations will appreciate your efforts and easily fall in love with this precious present. If you want to give more surprises, add cash, a check, or an amazon gift card to the box. It also has spare space in the back to write your own sentimental message for the one who will graduate soon.

8. Lockdown Word Art Frame

Lockdown Word Art Frame

Category: Handmade, customized
Materials: 290gsm art paper
Size:
– Frame: 8 x 12 inches
– Paper: A4

During the pandemic that forces them to have an online graduation ceremony, we recommend you to give him a little consolation by giving a gift as a form of your attention. One of the best gifts you can give that bears sentimental value is definitely the word art frame.

Featuring a picture of your friend composed of congratulations, name, year of graduation, and title, we think this art will completely picture the person who received it. Color images in black and white can easily blend with any interior and decor that resides with them. Either they will display it on the wall or choose it to sit on the table; this framed photo will stand out.

9. Graduation Journal

Graduation Journal

Category: Personal organizers
Materials: Faux leather
Size:
– Journal: 7.9 x 4.7 inches
Weight: 0.5 lbs

Journaling can help to reduce stress. So, it will be perfect for capturing moments after graduation that can sometimes be tough. Therefore, giving a journal to your friends, especially those who love to write, is a considerate idea. Unlike common journals that feature plastic or paper covers, this one has synthetic leather. You can also notice a long, touching message exquisitely carved on the surface, wishing them all the best in their future endeavor.

In addition, it features a perfect, medium size that allows your best friend to carry it everywhere he goes. We also love the fact that this unique journal comes with an excellent space to put an ID card, credit card, name card, or amazing photos! We believe that your friend will love this journal in a heartbeat.

10. Graduation Cap Jar

Graduation Cap Jar

Category: Handmade, customized
Materials: Plastics

This graduation cap mason jar will be a funny present for your friend, especially those who love keeping their kitchen clean and neat. You can order customized colors from the artist to make this graduation cap look unique and follow the personality of your friends. If they are easy-going and cheerful people, bright colors like red, green, and yellow will be the best choice.

Meanwhile, we think neutral shades will most likely suit those with calm personalities. Also, don’t forget to give these sets to your friend along with a mason jar you can buy at a store. Make sure you buy small ones as the sizes will perfectly match them. Then, fill it up with cash or a message in rolled papers to make it memorable and a special gift.


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11. Stainless Steel Travel Mug

Stainless Steel Travel Mug

Category: Commercial
Materials: Stainless steel
Size: 16 Oz

Some youngsters tend to enjoy their youth by taking a gap year before entering college or work. If your best friend is one of them, we recommend you to give this stainless steel travel mug as a graduation gift to accompany him while traveling around the world. The 16-oz size provides enough room to keep his coffee or water so he can stay hydrated all the time.

It also features a spill-prevention lid-lock that allows easy handling when he wants to climb mountains or explore the forest. In addition, the stainless can retain temperatures. Therefore, it is safe to pour hot beverages into it. Meanwhile, the funny words on the body of this mug serve jokes that will draw a smile to his face. Or perhaps, remember you as that funny friend indeed.

12. Horseshoe Graduation Gift

Horseshoe Graduation Gift

Category: Handmade
Materials: Iron

Though it is uncommon to give this item as a graduation gift, we think it is precisely what makes these horseshoes a unique piece! You can give it to your friends who love animals, especially horses, as a display in their homes. In fact, they could actually set one up for their beloved horse if they had one! The iron material guarantees its durability and strength, so we believe they can keep it for years.

Other than home decor, they can also hang it on the front door to replace their old bell. Thus, guests can easily knock on it. Don’t forget to insert a graduation card to express your joy for their graduation day. In addition to silver, you can choose a golden one to make it more luxurious.

13. Inspirational Graduation Keychain 

Inspirational Graduation Keychain

Category: Handmade
Materials: Stainless steel
Size: 2.87 x 2.72 x 0.59 inch

Keychains are probably the best choice of affordable gifts to pick without losing their sentimental meaning, just like this graduation keychain. Even though the size is small, we think the encouraging words engraved on it speak your wishes loudly. They seem meaningless, but those will hit hard when your friend needs passion in life after graduation.

Furthermore, it is made of stainless steel, which is generally rust-free and resistant to temperatures. So, we are sure it can survive for many years. Also, your friend can attach it to their backpack or car key to take anywhere since the chain is lightweight. Truly the definition of a small but sentimental gift.

Graduation Gift for Female Best Friends 

Girls always love valuable and personalized things because they give them heartwarming feelings. Therefore, most of the items in this section are jewelry, such as a new journey bangle, necklace, Pandora charm, and many other sparkling items. There is also a paper flower frame that will give an additional romantic look to give some sentimental vibe as well.

To find the perfect gift, take a look at the following 12 sentimental graduation gifts for girl best friends! 

14. New Journey Bangle

New Journey Bangle

Category: Handmade, personalized
Materials: Brass with sterling silver plated
Size:
– Circumference: 8.62 inch
– Width: 0.12 inch (3 mm)

Graduation means a new beginning. And so, we recommend this new journey bangle as one of the most sentimental graduation gifts for best friends. It features allergen-free and nickel-free, so it is safe for all skin types. Also, we love the fact that this bangle has silver material that will shine on different skin tones.

Meanwhile, the feminine design is exquisitely and meticulously executed with alluring lotus pendants that can easily capture the wearer’s attention. In addition, the ‘New Journey’ tag in the box describes a fresh start and best wishes for her future. You can also add a gift card to express your happiness to him for the long-awaited graduation.

15. Class of 2022 Necklace

Class of 2022 Bracelet

Category: Handmade, personalized
Materials: Silver

Sentimental gifts for friends don’t always have to come in the form of luxury items. Instead, you can give him something simple but memorable, like this class of 2022 necklace. The design of this is simple, with a small black braid that will match all skin tones. Additionally, the silver pendants look striking against the black bracelet.

Besides, they demonstrate the year of graduation and the initials of your dear friend’s name, which makes it more personal. With such a design, even your not-so-feminine friends can use this bracelet without feeling embarrassed or uncomfortable. For the last touch, buy a unique gift box with some graduation decor to make this gift memorable for her.

16. Personalized Graduation Necklace

Personalized Graduation Necklace

Category: Handmade, personalized
Materials: Titanium steel, copper
Size:
– Pendant: 2 inches
– Chain Length: 20 inches (adjustable)

What is a better sentimental graduation gift than this personalized jewelry? This graduation necklace can be customized with the graduation year and the name of the person you want to give it to. Thus, it will be more unforgettable. Speaking of the material, we think titanium steel also shares an exquisite look. At the same time, the sparkling crystal makes it look expensive and classy as well.

In addition, the graduation hat element also adds a unique touch that makes it different from the standard necklaces out there. Despite being an eye-catching piece, let’s be honest, it may not suit girls who have casual looks. But, it would be perfect for those who like the girly style and have a feminine personality.

17. Acrylic Plaque 

Acrylic Plaque

Category: Handmade, personalized
Materials: Acrylic
Size: 4 x 6 inches

Are you looking for a perfect graduation gift that is out-of-the-box? We think this this acrylic plaque is perfect for that. It is a great choice to show your love for a girlfriend on her special day. The clear acrylic provides a unique background for the personalized printed image on the surface, making it a focal point of the design.

As it is a customizable item, you can request the artist to adjust the acrylic frame decoration to match your friend’s taste. Thus, she can proudly display it in her home’s spotlight areas. The size is also relatively small, so it shouldn’t be a problem to pack it in a box or tie it with a pretty ribbon. However, we think that it would be better to add the name and year of graduation to remind your friend of the beautiful memories that happened once in a lifetime.

18. Night Light

Night Light

Category: Handmade, customized
Materials: Wood
Size: 12.5 x 12.5 x 11.6 inches
Weight: 0.8 lbs

Do you want to surprise your best friend with a special gift? This one might do the job. This night light has a magic feature that can show a magical lamp and project your sentimental wordings on a wall in the darkness. The warm glow will radiate a cozy feeling, so your friend will love to hang out in the room at night. Besides words, you can customize your favorite animal or plant character for the carvings.

The box is made of wood, which we think offers a minimalist yet endless style. So, it will suit any interior design that your friend has. In addition, such a material also provides a long-lasting design and sturdiness. Moreover, its medium size and lightweight will not take up much space on the desk or make it difficult for them to re-arrange their room layout.

19. Graduation Photo Booth Message Bottle

Graduation Photo Booth Message Bottle

Category: Handmade
Materials: Wood
Size:
– Bottle: 3.93 x 1.18 inches
– Picture: 3.15 x 0.79 inches

Suppose you are looking for a mind-blowing but pocket-friendly gift. In that case, we have no doubt you will love this gift right away. This photo booth bottle can hold special memories in the form of photos or touching messages for your friends.

Even though they are small in size, you can actually fit three photos with sentimental value inside. This size allows them to display it anywhere without worrying about taking up too much space. In addition, the stand oak material adds a rustic design with appealing carving that you can also personalize.

20. Personalized Graduation Hampers Box

Personalized Graduation Hampers Box

Category: Handmade, personalized
Materials: Magnetic box, glass
Size:
– Gift Box: 8 x 8 x 4 inches
– Glass Mug: 6 Oz
– Notebook: 3.5 x 5.5 inches

Confused about which one to choose? We believe this graduation gift box is for you! The set includes some personal items that will be useful for your female bestie. You can personalize a transparent glass with her name to make it more touching. Meanwhile, the pen, journal notebook, and the lovely scrunchies are additional gifts for those who love journaling.

In addition, we believe she will cherish the glittery box of Ferrero chocolate that can accompany her to spend the night after graduation and lift up her mood. You can also add the graduation year of your best friend to the gift box to make it more unique and special.


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21. Graduation Sterling Silver Charm 

Graduation Sterling Silver Charm

Category: Handmade, personalized
Materials: Sterling silver
Size: 0.13 x 0.41 x 9.67 inches
Weight: 0.16 ounces

What else can be prettier than this Pandora sterling silver charm? It features the shape of a graduation hat, meaning a sentimental graduation gift specially designed for someone who will graduate soon. Even more remarkable, it is made of sterling silver, so it serves a simple and exclusive look of jewelry that guarantees rust-free quality.

Furthermore, the silver color depicts luxury but is also not too overwhelming. Thus, it will also look great for those who don’t really like jewelry. Such colors will also match skin tones, ranging from black and brown to white.

In addition, the size is mini, so we’re pretty sure it will match the style of the necklace chain or bracelet that your friend has. In short, this Pandora charm necklace and bracelet will perfectly fit your female best friend’s style.

22. Graduation Initial Necklace

Graduation Initial Necklace

Category: Personalized
Materials: 14K gold pleated metal
Size: 18 inches with 2-inch extension

Coming with an affectionate graduation message on the card, this stunning necklace will make one of the most memorable graduation gifts for best friends. It has an initial name with a graduation hat on top, which is the hallmark of graduation celebration gifts. You can also notice the crystal that is embedded in the letter pendant that adds a luxurious feel because of its glitter.

Moreover, the gold-pleated chain ensures its best quality with hypoallergenic material that is safe to wear on any skin condition. The smooth surface and lightweight will leave no itchiness and make it comfortable to wear.

If that’s not enough for you, the chain is adjustable, so the length can be easily adjusted to the circumference of your bestie’s neck.

23. Your Graduation Print Art

Your Graduation Print Art

Category: Personalized
Materials: Wood, plexi-glass, archival matte paper
Size:
– Framed photo: 17 x 23 inches
– Unframed photo: 11 x 17 inches

Your friends with great taste in art will appreciate this kind of graduation paper gift. We know that the price may not be much, but nothing can beat the unique design of an old-fashioned newspaper. You can request to put your friend’s graduation photo as a focal point in the top center of this print art. Then, convey your best wishes as an article written on the page.

We also recommend buying a frame that matches the size of the paper so your friends can easily display it. Or, if they are people who like journaling, it would be better to include a new journal notebook as a complement to his graduation gift. Hence, she can stick this striking art as a memento in her journal.

24. DIY Scrapbook 

DIY Scrapbook 

Category: Handmade, personalized
Materials: Paper
Size:
– Cost box: 6.29 x 6.29 x 6.29 inches
– Small box: 2.75 x 2.75 x 2.95 inches

Instead of buying memorable graduation gifts for friends, we think it will generally feel closer to the heart if you make them yourself. But, in case you don’t have time to make one, you can buy a DIY scrapbook with a request to display memorable photos with your friends. Well, it could be when you guys celebrate birthdays, hang out, watch movies, do homework, and so on.

In addition, you can write messages of love for her on the scrapbook with colorful ink that adds cheerful vibes. Apart from being a cute gift, it also makes an impressive, attractive display. Don’t worry! The size will not make it difficult for your friend to find the right place to show it off.

We guarantee that your bestie will fall in love with this gift and strengthen your friendship even more.

25. Flower Frame

Flower Frame

Category: Handmade, personalized
Materials: Vinyl, cardstock
Size: (more sizes on the web)
– Smallest: 5 x 7 inches
– Medium: 9 x 9 inches
– Largest: 12 x 12 inches

Who doesn’t love flowers? They have a meaningful impression when you give them to particular people, including your besties. But this time, we will not recommend real flowers. Instead, we bring something new, unique, and memorable, the flower frame. Unlike cutting flowers that can only be put in a vase, your bestie can display it on her bedroom’s wall as an attractive decoration.

You can request to arrange the shape and color of artificial blooms to match her personality. Also, customize her name, title, and graduation year on the glass to add a sweet touch to the design. Regarding the size, you can ask for a small or large. However, we recommend a small to medium size so it doesn’t take up a lot of space.

Final Thoughts

Graduation is one of the milestones in life that needs to be celebrated. If your best friend is just graduating, make sure you give them a sentimental graduation gift that holds deep meaning for them.

The gift can be come in the form of accessories for them to wear in welcoming the new phase in life. Or, it can also be something that your best friend can display at home. In the end, the choice is on you, so it would be best to know exactly what your friend would love before you make your final decision.


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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

What do you get someone for a graduation gift?

We can get a personalized graduation gift to make our sentimental and grateful feelings stand out. As always, personalized gifts are the best since we are giving a gift based on someone’s preferences.

You can choose a lock-down word art frame, DIY Scrapbook, and graduation initial necklace, as well as a photo booth message bottle. Valuable things can also be considered, such as the Pandora graduation charm and linking necklace. In conclusion, valuable and personalized gifts are the best options as sentimental graduation gifts for best friends. 

Do friends give each other graduation gifts?

Friends do give each other graduation gifts as part of grateful feelings. They know each other’s journey, the hard work that has been put in to finally arrive at this step. Giving sentimental graduation gifts to best friends, it shows that we are supportive friends. 

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