What Is a Tennis Bracelet?

What is a tennis bracelet? Why is it called that? And – most importantly – why are they such a popular jewelry staple?

We have the answers.

Let’s start with the easiest. A classic tennis bracelet is made up of a uniform line of diamonds that goes all around the wrist. The links in this precious metal chain allow for flexibility while keeping the diamonds set closely together to maximize shine and sparkle.

Over the years, it’s had several names; they’ve been called both eternity bracelets and the diamond line bracelet. Now, they’re known by jewelry designers and enthusiasts all over the world as tennis bracelets. This brings us to our next question (and answer).

History of the Classic Tennis Bracelet

Its history is a little complicated, mostly because there’s some debate about dates.

This style of bracelet first became popular in the 1920s when stacking perfect tennis bracelets one after another up your arm and draping your neck in layered necklaces was all the rage. But things get a little murky when it comes to when – exactly – we started calling them tennis bracelets.

The story goes that tennis player Chris Evert lost her gold tennis bracelet designed by George Bedewi during the 1987 U.S. Open Tennis Championships. Reportedly, the tennis star put a halt to her match until the diamond jewelry could be found (very relatable). The attention she attracted to her lost bracelet changed its name forever while securing it a top spot in all jewelry lovers’ wishlists.

But, there is some debate over this. Not so much the who and the how… but the when. According to Marion Fasel (who we love for taking jewelry history so seriously), the term “tennis bracelet” had been used for some time before 1987. At some point in recounting jewelry history, the numbers got mixed up. According to Chirs Evert’s publicist (and Chris herself), the U.S. Open in question actually took place in 1978, NOT 1987.

Why It’s a Popular Bracelet Design

We have three words for you: versatility, elegance, and simplicity. These three words perfectly sum up why everyone is so in love with tennis bracelets.

Diamond tennis bracelets pair well with anything and instantly add some dazzle to any outfit. Wear them paired with chunky bangles or just a solitaire wedding band or engagement ring – it doesn’t matter; you instantly added some class.

You can rock a tennis bracelet no matter the occasion – be it formal or casual – and it won’t seem out of place. It’s as equally at home in a nightclub as it is in a high-class restaurant – or as its history has shown us and its name implies – on a tennis court.

But, let’s not forget its durability! While it may have gotten its famous nickname from an iconic moment of fashion failure, it’s actually a long-lasting, hardy piece of jewelry. The links in the chain keep it flexible, and they come fixed with a secure clasp. Breakage is pretty rare overall – especially with the right care (which includes taking off your bracelet before exercising, just FYI, Ms. Evert).

Rocking Different Tennis Bracelet Styles

While a classic tennis bracelet is absolutely to die (or stop play) for, part of the fun of tennis bracelets is their versatility, so you should definitely play around with different styles. And we’re not just talking about switching between yellow gold, white gold, or sterling silver bands.

Here are some of the trendiest ways to incorporate a tennis bracelet into your outfit, no matter your personal style.

Spice Up the Diamond Shapes

One way to create some visual interest is to get a tennis bracelet that plays with the size and shape of the diamonds set in the band.

While traditional tennis bracelets are typically round, nothing is stopping you from selecting a princess cut or a square cut. And – nothing is stopping you from going wild and getting a mix of cuts.

Varying the carat weight between diamonds can also create a stunning, visual effect that can add some vintage, quirky flair to your jewelry collection. While uniformity is part of the appeal of a classic tennis bracelet, sometimes breaking the rules and standing out from the pack is fun to do, too.

Add Some Color

Another break from tradition – yes, white diamonds are beautiful, but there’s a whole world of colored gemstones and even lab-grown diamond replacements to play with. Wouldn’t a pretty, pink tennis bracelet be the perfect thing for a day when you’re feeling fun and flirty? Spoiler alert: it is.

Pop On Some Charms

Traditionalists might hate us – but gosh darn it, it’s cute. Adding a few tasteful charms to a tennis bracelet can help add some personality to the traditionally flat diamond line. Now, we’re not recommending you turn it into a full-blown charm bracelet, but adding two or three small charms, or even just one on the clasp – can help personalize your look.

Let Giving Gems Elevate Your Style

Whether you want to know what a tennis bracelet is or need some tips and tricks on how to find out someone’s ring size – we’re here to help. We love giving the gift of knowledge almost as much as we love giving the gift of beauty.

And, if it isn’t obvious from one look at our website’s shop, we love giving that gift a lot (so much so that every item ordered from Giving Gems comes with a free bracelet for you to give to someone else). Oh yeah – and we provide free shipping all over the United States.