Thanks to its elegant, simple, and luxurious style, a tennis bracelet is a commonly desired jewelry. Also, it’s a very practical and versatile accessory that can be worn for any occasion and with any outfit.
One of the best decisions that can be made when buying jewelry is selecting an option that is super comfortable and fits any lifestyle. This serves as a worthy investment, and a tennis bracelet ticks all the boxes.
This guide discusses everything you need to know about a tennis bracelet, including what it is, the origin, and answers to so many questions that you might have.
What is a Tennis Bracelet?
This is a bracelet with a continuous line of diamonds or gemstones that are connected by a metallic chain made of various materials like gold, silver, stainless steel, or platinum. The metallic chain consists of individual links that make the bracelet flexible, yet hold the diamonds or gemstones firmly together.
Typically, a tennis bracelet is made up of a glittering line of diamond stones that have the same color, clarity, cut, and size. They are set side by side to form a complete, flexible circle around the wearer’s wrist. While diamonds are the popular stones used, tennis bracelets have evolved over the years. Nowadays, other precious stones can be used, such as emeralds, rubies, sapphires, and a mix of multiple semi-precious gems.
The Origin of Tennis Bracelet
Originally, the tennis bracelet was called an “eternity bracelet.” The name was coined from its description i.e., a circular jewelry composed of a seemingly endless succession of diamonds. This was the trend for a very long time, with records of it becoming especially popular in the 1920s and 1930s.
In the late 1970s, a new trend started. The fashion industry was changing and as at the time, diamond jewelry was no longer perceived as only suitable for black tie or formal occasions. Everyone, including women began to wear their diamonds in a much more casual, informal, and relaxed way.
Fashion and luxury styles in all facets of life were also evolving. However, the trend was limited in professional sports but this didn’t stop the famous American tennis women player, Christ Evert from making it a usual accessory for sports. In 1987, during a US Open match, her bracelet flew off her wrist onto the court after she took a big swing with her racket. The bracelet’s defective clasp made her shimmering diamond loose from her wrist and the game had to be paused while she looked for it.
When asked about the incident, she answered: “Oh, that was my tennis bracelet.” Just like that, eternity bracelet was renamed to “tennis bracelet.” This incident shook the whole jewelry and fashion industry. From then onward, the tennis bracelet became one of the most sought-after diamond accessories.
Are Tennis Bracelets Still in Style in 2023?
Till today, tennis bracelets’ popularity has not declined and this is because they are very nostalgic. Due to the history and emotional connection attached, the jewelry has continually trended in every generation and will continue thanks to its timeless design and beauty.
In addition, here are other reasons why tennis bracelets are still in style in 2023:
- Perfect for Everyday Wear: Tennis bracelets are often worn by everyone, both men and women. This piece of jewelry blends easily with any type of outfit and occasion, including casual and formal. Also, tennis bracelets exude luxury and sophistication that makes the wearer unique among the crowd.
- Modernized Designs: Over the years, tennis bracelets have undergone some subtle changes, like the replacement of some types of settings with various stone cuts, as well as the use of different types of gemstones other than diamonds. Also, while most traditional tennis bracelets have stones with a single color, different stones with varying colors can now be used.
- They Carry a Symbolic Meaning: Tennis bracelets serve as a very special jewelry gift that can be used for special occasions like birthdays, graduation, wedding anniversaries, etc. Traditionally, a brilliant-cut diamond jewelry of white or yellow gold is popularly considered as a love token. It’s considered as a ring on the wrist.
Can You Resize a Tennis Bracelet?
Yes, a tennis bracelet can be resized. The process is very simple and can be done by a professional jeweler. There are two ways to do this and they are:
- Adding or Removing Links: Whether the bracelet is bigger or smaller than your wrist, the jeweler can remove or add some links until it comfortably fits your wrist.
- Adjusting the Clasp: Some tennis bracelets are designed with clasps that can be adjusted to fit a narrower or wider wrist. With the help of the jeweler, your bracelet can be adjusted to your wrist size.
How Should a Tennis Bracelet Fit Your Wrist?
The best fit is a bracelet that is comfortable and can move slightly around your wrist. It’s advisable that your tennis bracelet isn’t too loose. Of course, it shouldn’t be too tight either. A good rule of thumb is to wear a size that has enough space between your wrist and the bracelet to contain one finger.
The Material Choice in a Tennis Bracelet
Tennis bracelet is mainly composed of the metal chain and the stone. There are several types of metals and stones that are commonly used. They are listed below:
Metals
- Sterling silver
- Stainless steel
- Gold (yellow, white, and rose gold)
- Platinum
- Titanium
- Tungsten
Stones
- Diamond
- Emerald
- Ruby
- Sapphire
- Moissanite
- Zirconia
- Peridot
- Tanzanite
- Amethyst
- Aquamarine
- Morganite
- Topaz
How to Clean and Maintain a Tennis Bracelet?
Cleaning and maintaining a tennis bracelet is quite demanding and different from other types of jewelry due to the intricate but hidden components that make up the articulated, flexible links. Dust, dirt, and other particles can compound in the nooks and crannies, making your diamonds sparkle less.
To clean your tennis bracelet, the best approach is to gently wash it in warm, soapy water. Discussed below are some ways to maintain the bracelet’s luster and shine.
- Don’t Wear Your Tennis Bracelet During Hard Activities: Metals used for making jewelry, including tennis bracelets are soft. Even though they are sometimes mixed with harder metals, they are still prone to scratch and damage. To prevent this, don’t wear your tennis bracelet during hard activities and don’t store them in places where they can contact sharp objects.
While diamonds are famous for being tough and durable, the tips of every diamond shape is susceptible to damage, hence needs to be protected from falls or hard knocks, which tend to spoil the outer veneer of diamonds.
- Avoid Chemicals: Tennis bracelet’s metals and stones can easily be damaged by chemicals. Therefore, it is advisable to avoid contact with chemicals, particularly the harsh ones. Even if the stone can withstand the chemical, the settings of the bracelet might get damaged, which affects the security and beauty of your tennis bracelet.
The easiest way to come in contact with chemicals is when cleaning. Therefore when cleaning with chemicals, abrasive or corrosive substances, remove your tennis bracelet.
- Visit a Professional Jeweler for Inspection: When you suspect that the stones are getting loose from your bracelet or the settings are damaged, quickly visit a professional jeweler to keep your tennis bracelet looking its best. Never attempt to fix it by yourself because it can result in further damage.
Key Takeaway
Sleek and modern, tennis bracelets add beauty and sophistication to any look, elevating your composure in both formal and informal settings. With its notable origin from the incident involving Chris Evert on the tennis court in 1987, this bracelet has transcended to becoming a sought-after fashion that evolves with time and trends.
Whether you are buying a tennis bracelet for yourself or as a gift, you can never go wrong, as it is wearable on all outfits and for every occasion.
