What Is a Tennis Bracelet? And Why Is It Called That?
What is a tennis bracelet? And why is it called that? This classic piece of diamond jewellery is a luxurious accessory you wear on your wrist. Its name was invented in 1987, when pro tennis player, Chris Evert, had a little mishap with a diamond bracelet during a US Open rally…
In this article, we explain what tennis bracelets are, the story behind their name, and the different styles available today.
What is a tennis bracelet?
It is a bracelet with a continuous line of diamonds that go all around the wrist. A precious metal chain connects the diamonds. The chain consists of individual links that give the bracelet flexibility, yet hold the diamonds close together.
Why the name “tennis bracelet”?
This piece of jewellery owes its name to a famous incident at the 1987 US Open tournament. A women’s tennis pro called Chris Evert served a ball to her opponent so briskly that her diamond bracelet flew off her wrist. Because of that, the officials had to stop the match and help her find the bracelet, before the game could continue!
What is so special about tennis bracelets?
Many people desire to own a tennis bracelet because it is an elegant, simple and luxurious style of jewellery. What’s more, it is also a very practical and versatile accessory because it is easy to match with any outfit and occasion, whether formal or casual.
What shape are the diamonds in a tennis bracelet?
Typically, all the diamonds in a tennis bracelet are the same shape. The most commonly used diamond shape in tennis bracelets is the round diamond. But you can also find bracelet styles that feature other shapes, like the square princess cut diamond or even clusters of diamonds.
What size are the diamonds?
The diamonds can vary from large solitaires to tiny ones. Note that jewellers measure diamond size as weight, in units called carats, and they always show the diamond carats of a bracelet as a total, rather than stating the individual carat weight of each diamond.
So for example, the total diamond weight of your bracelet could be 0.60 carats, 1 carat, 3 carats, 10 carats and so on.
What quality are the diamonds?
The diamond quality can vary from premium to flawless. The better the diamond quality, the more expensive the bracelet. However, as a rule of thumb, a H/Si quality is a great starting point for higher carat weights, and premium quality is perfectly acceptable for lower carat weights.
What kind of a setting do they have?
- In classic styles, the diamonds are often held in a claw setting, which means that there are four tiny metal prongs holding each diamond in place.
- At other times, a rubover setting is used, which esentially “wraps” the diamond in a round setting of precious metal.
- A cluster setting means that, instead of single diamonds placed in each link of the bracelet, you’ll have a cluster of tiny diamonds set very closely together, mimicking the look of a larger diamond.
- Finally, for tiny diamonds, an illusion setting is used where the metal mimics the facets of the diamonds, making them seem larger.
Are tennis bracelets made with gold?
They can be made with any precious metal, including platinum, gold or silver.
What about tennis bracelets with coloured gems?
For purists, classic tennis bracelets can only feature diamonds. But in reality, this is a question of taste. Therefore, some do feature gems alongside the diamonds. Plus there are also designs made solely with coloured gemstones.
Will my bracelet fall off like Chris Evert’s did?
No. Ours come with a modern double-security clasp that will keep your bracelet firmly on your wrist. (However, we don’t recommend wearing your most expensive jewellery during hard physical activity because you could easily knock it, scratch it or damage the setting.)
Are they worth the money?
Yes. Firstly, a tennis bracelet with high-quality diamonds is a good financial investment. Secondly, it is such a timeless item that it will give you a lifetime of wear and joy. Finally, in terms of sentimental value, it is a highly coveted “big occasion” gift that will often turn into a family heirloom.
Are they fashionable jewellery items?
Tennis bracelets are what stylists call timeless pieces of jewellery, or jewellery essentials. They have gained this status because their design is so elegant and classic that they suit any decade, and therefore they stand beyond passing trends.
Are they expensive?
Because tennis bracelets feature so many diamonds, they can be expensive. For instance, gold tennis bracelet prices can start from around £1000. However, the good news is that if you’re on a budget, you can save money by buying a design made from silver, with sustainable lab diamonds, or an illusion setting.
