If you've ever caught that tell-tale flash from a line of sparkling diamonds on someone's wrist, you understand the timeless allure that the tennis bracelet offers. These heirloom-quality diamond bracelets add a touch of elegance to any look, from formal galas to, well, the tennis court and beyond.
If you’ve been thinking about purchasing a dazzling diamond bracelet, whether as a thoughtful gift or to enhance your own jewelry collection, take another look at the classic tennis bracelet. Trust us, you won’t regret it.
What is a Tennis Bracelet?
Also known as diamond line or eternity bracelets, tennis bracelets feature a continuous line of diamonds or other gems on a simple, often flexible band. When worn, the entire wrist is encircled with gemstones, giving an elegant yet understated brilliance to every outfit.
Why are Tennis Bracelets Sometimes Called Eternity Bracelets?
Long before they were called tennis bracelets, these designs were known as eternity bracelets. A popular gift in the 1920s, the uninterrupted circle of diamonds was often used to symbolize eternal love. With no beginning and no end, it was the perfect present to show your everlasting devotion and commitment to a special someone.
How did the Tennis Bracelet Get Its Name?
The term "tennis bracelet" came from professional tennis player Chris Evert, who'd been known to sport the delicate design around her wrist at every match. When the string of diamonds fell off her wrist in the 1987 U.S. Open, the champion requested to pause the game so she could search for her staple accessory. In the following interviews, everyone began calling it her tennis bracelet, and the name stuck!
What Makes a Tennis Bracelet a Must-Have Jewelry Piece?
These versatile designs can be dressed up or down and styled in a variety of ways, making them a go-to for any woman and occasion. When it comes down to it, a diamond tennis bracelet is more than just another piece of jewelry—it’s a timeless staple that can be passed down to future generations. With different stone shapes and sizes, metal colors, and tiny embellishment options, there's an eternity bracelet style for everyone.
When is it Appropriate to Wear a Tennis Bracelet?
Tennis bracelets can be worn wherever and whenever you like—that's the beauty of them! The subdued size and durability are suitable for everyday active lifestyles, and glittering diamonds make a statement at special occasions. Wear a petite bar eternity bracelet any time you wish, including for:
- Weddings
- Office meetings
- Dinner parties
- Brunch
- Galas
- Tennis matches
Top Factors to Consider When Shopping for Diamond Tennis Bracelets
When shopping for a tennis bracelet, it's easy to be swept away by the glittering designs filling the cases. But before you buy, it's important to determine exactly what you're looking for. Explore each of these considerations to find the perfect tennis design for you and your jewelry collection:
Set a Realistic Budget
Even a treat-yourself purchase needs a budget sometimes! Before you set foot in a jewelry store, determine how much you're willing to pay. Once you establish your spending limit, your jeweler will be happy to work within those parameters to help you find your ideal diamond bracelet.
Luckily, diamond line bracelets can be found at a variety of price points! Gold tennis bracelets, for example, can cost anywhere from around $2,000 to over $40,000, depending on the diamond weight, metal type, and designer.
Consider Diamond Quality and Consult the 4Cs
Whenever you shop for diamond jewelry, it's helpful to understand a bit about the way diamonds are graded, so you know precisely what you're looking at before you purchase. Since the majority of tennis bracelets are made with diamonds, we suggest looking into the quality of stones used in the design before anything else.
A well-made diamond eternity bracelet will have stones that rank well in each category. To determine the value of each stone, experts use a system called the 4Cs, which includes:
- Cut: judged by how well-proportioned the dimensions and symmetry of the stone are, which directly impacts the sparkle and brilliance
- Color: refers to the lack of color in the diamond—the more colorless, the better
- Clarity: refers to the absence or presence of inclusions within the stone; the higher the grade, the more valuable it becomes
- Carat: refers to the weight of the diamond, not the size of the stone
What is the Best Diamond Cut for a Tennis Bracelet?
When it comes to jewelry, everyone is entitled to their opinion, but experts agree: the best shape for white gold eternity bracelets is round brilliant. Often considered the most iconic cut, round brilliant diamonds feature a unique faceting structure that maximizes the brilliance in each individual stone.
Look Into Setting Security
With designs that have multiple diamonds, the stones can sometimes get loose and fall out. This risk is directly impacted by the type of metal setting a jeweler has used to secure each gem into place. Each setting style has its own pros and cons:
- Prong settings use small metal claws to hold each diamond individually in place, with four-prong being the preferred option for durable day-to-day wear and three-prong being praised for offering greater exposure to the stone's sparkle.
- Channel settings have more coverage, securing diamonds between two strips of metal and adding extra protection.
- Bezel settings encircle each diamond with a metal rim for a modern look, but may not be suitable for larger stones.
Try On for Length and Fit
Comfort is key when selecting a diamond tennis bracelet. Luckily, similar to necklaces and rings, bracelets are made in a variety of sizes to ensure a perfect fit for everyone. The standard lengths for line bracelets include 6.5, 7, and 7.5 inches, but longer or shorter chains can be custom-made upon request.
An eternity bracelet should feel secure, without constricting any movement. But you don't want it to be too loose, either! The best rule of thumb is to make sure you can comfortably slide one finger in between the bracelet and your wrist. When fastened, the chain of your gold eternity bracelet should have some slack to allow for natural movement and sit comfortably on your wristbone.
How to Measure for Tennis Bracelet Fit at Home
If you're shopping for luxury jewelry online, you won't get to try on designs before you buy. But don't worry—there are plenty of tried-and-true methods for measuring your wrist at home.
Grab a soft measuring tape (or a piece of string and a ruler) and measure the circumference of your wrist just below the bone. Take that number and add an additional 0.5 inches for a snug fit and 1 inch for a slightly looser fit.
Debate Your Desired Metal
Though they may seem less consequential than the dazzling diamonds in the chain, metal is integral to a tennis bracelet's lasting durability. Certain metals, like gold and platinum, are least likely to rust or tarnish over time, making them the preferred choice for high-end designers around the globe.
The color of metal can also enhance (or detract) from the overall look of the piece. Certain hues, like white gold, are said to help diamonds appear more radiant, while something warmer, like yellow or rose gold, casts a more luminous glow. If you choose a non-diamond eternity bracelet, make sure the metal color pairs well with more vibrant gemstones.
Most Popular Metals for Eternity Bracelets:
- Yellow gold
- White gold
- Sterling silver
- Platinum
- Rose gold
Pay Attention to Special Details
Diamond tennis bracelets may all share a silhouette and style, but that doesn't mean they're all designed to look the same. If you're searching for a piece with a little more character, look for bracelets with unique diamond cuts, statement sizes, or small etchings in the setting. Some jewelers even offer customization and engraving options to make your piece extra special.
Does a Tennis Bracelet Need to Have Diamonds?
Though diamonds are the traditional choice for eternity bracelets, they aren't the only option. The same design can be made with any type of gemstone (or even with an assortment of different stones), as long as they are identical in cut, size, and clarity. Rubies, sapphires, and emeralds are all popular choices for those wanting something with a little more color.
Recently, a few brands have leaned into this more contemporary preference, releasing designs with alternating diamonds and accent gemstones. Eye-catching, vibrant, and versatile, these multi-colored bracelets are endlessly beautiful and, at times, more affordable than an all-diamond alternative.
Inspired Ways to Style an Eternity Bracelet
Once you find your ideal eternity bracelet, the sky is the limit when it comes to styling. Take your look to the next level and explore all the different ways you can accessorize with your cherished bracelet:
Lean into Minimalism
If you prefer a more minimalist aesthetic, you'll be happy to know that tennis bracelets are so beautiful, they don't really need any added accessorizing to shine. Go the "less is more" route and wear your diamond design on its own. You'll love flashing that glittering circle of diamonds on your wrist!
Sport a Matching Set
You don't have to be on the court to show off your tennis style. Complete your look by pairing your favorite eternity bracelet with a tennis necklace! With side-by-side diamonds on your wrist and neck, you'll sparkle and shine wherever you go. The tennis necklace and bracelet combo is stunning for formal looks.
Stack with Other Bracelets
If you're a bracelet connoisseur, you likely have quite a collection. Don’t limit yourself to wearing only one at a time.
Show off your favorite designs by stacking bracelets on each wrist. Sport a few bangles on either side of your tennis bracelet or wear multiple tennis designs—the stacking options are endless.
Layer with a Watch
Eternity bracelets are the best accessories for elevating your favorite women's wristwatch. Ensure a harmonious look by sticking to the same metal color and gemstones that are on your timepiece to make them appear as a matching set. Place a white gold bracelet above your TAG Heuer stainless-steel watch for a stacked look, or on the opposite wrist for a balanced style.
Mix Metals on Your Wrist
Mixed-metal styling is on trend. Why not try it out with your new diamond line bracelet?
If you chose a sterling silver piece, try layering it with gold and silver rings. If you have a yellow gold bracelet, opt for a silver necklace and mixed-metal earrings. The more you lean into the two-toned metal style, the better the look will be.
Gifting a Diamond Eternity Bracelet
If you're shopping for a thoughtful and fashionable present, tennis bracelets never fail to impress. Often given to commemorate special occasions and milestones, this wearable design is sure to thrill your loved one. The next time you're invited to celebrate a golden birthday or need a gift for your diamond anniversary, find an eternity bracelet in their style and add a thoughtful engraving to create an accessory they'll love for the rest of their lives.
How to Clean and Care for Your Diamond Tennis Bracelet
To clean your diamond bracelet, avoid harsh chemicals and opt for a mild dish soap and lukewarm water, soaking the bracelet for 15 minutes before scrubbing with a soft brush and rinsing thoroughly. Once the soap is removed, pat it dry with a lint-free cloth.
When you aren't wearing the bracelet, make sure to store it separately from other pieces in a velvet pouch or lined box to avoid any scratching. Check the individual settings and clasps regularly to ensure each diamond is secure. Every few years, a professional inspection and cleaning should be scheduled to extend its lifespan even further.
Tennis bracelets have remained a popular choice for generations, and that doesn't seem to be changing anytime soon! Whether you prefer a sparkling white gold design with diamonds or a modern multi-colored piece, there's an eternity bracelet to suit every style. Join in the tradition and invest in your own exquisite diamond bracelet today.
