A Guide to Tennis Bracelets
A tennis bracelet is one of the most versatile pieces of jewellery – it can dressed up and worn to a fancy event or it can be worn day-to-day. It can also even be worn, as the name suggests, during a vigorous game of tennis. But what exactly are tennis bracelets and how do you style them?
What is a tennis bracelet?
Made up of a pattern of diamonds or gemstones, the tennis bracelet is connected by a thin metal chain. The stones tend to be the same size, shape, colour and clarity as each other, meaning the bracelet is designed to be symmetrical. They are simple in design yet with so many individual diamonds, their sparkle is unparalleled.
Originally, tennis bracelets were called ‘line diamond bracelets’ – however, during the 1987 US Open, tennis player, Chris Evert, lost her George Bedewi diamond bracelet – and the match was paused until she found the missing bracelet. Since this iconic moment in tennis jewellery history, the term ‘line diamond bracelet’ has become redundant and jewellers refer to the piece as a tennis bracelet.
How to wear a tennis bracelet
As mentioned, the tennis bracelet is one of the most versatile pieces of jewellery – it can be worn in both everyday and formal occasions. Paired with jeans or a little black dress, one thing that is a standard for tennis bracelets is the tightness. When securing the bracelet, make sure you can fit one finger comfortably between the wrist and the band – this should create the elegant drape that tennis bracelets are renowned for.
As it can be worn so casually, many people find themselves pairing their tennis bracelet with a watch. This could be an expensive designer watch or a simpler design – either way, a tennis bracelet and watch combo is often the picture of elegance. We recommend wearing the bracelet closest to your hand with the watch further up your wrist. This will allow the bracelet to delicately drape across your hand.
For those who like a splash of colour in their jewellery, take a look at gemstone tennis bracelets. These add a pop to an already stunning piece – a diamond can be coupled with anything from a ruby to aquamarine. Often tennis bracelets with added gemstones have a vintage feel.
How to choose a tennis bracelet
When choosing any piece of jewellery, it is important to consider both price and quality. Quality can be determined through the 4 Cs – cut, clarity, carat and colour. It is important that you weigh up cost compared to quality to make sure you get the best piece for your budget. Find out more about how to pick a piece of diamond jewellery with our diamond buying guide.
If you need more help to find the perfect tennis bracelet, come and visit us in store in our Jewellery Quarter showroom now. For more information, get in touch with our friendly team.