Jewelry trends come and go. What’s hot today may be old news next season. But one piece of jewelry that has stood the test of time and never goes out of style is the tennis bracelet. The tennis bracelet is a timeless, iconic piece that has become jewelry’s answer to the little black dress.
The tennis bracelet has been popular for decades, even before it was known as a tennis bracelet. This popularity is due in part to the fact that it is a very versatile piece that can be worn for virtually any occasion, from casual to formal. Previously known as an eternity bracelet, the tennis bracelet earned its current moniker during the 1987 U.S. Open. Tennis star Chris Evert was sporting one of the popular bracelets. When she realized it had broken and was missing from her wrist, she stopped her match to look for it. Popularity for the beautiful wrist adornment soared.
What differentiates a tennis bracelet from other types of bracelets? A tennis bracelet is a flexible bracelet with small gems, typically diamonds, set in symmetrical, continuous links along the entire length of a fine metal chain. It includes a box or lobster clasp to ensure the safety of the bracelet. Traditionally, a tennis bracelet does not include any charms or embellishments. However, many jewelers have broadened the definition of a tennis bracelet to include any narrow bracelet with a repeating pattern of diamonds and metal, including bracelets that contain gem stones and metal accents.
There are four factors that affect the style of a tennis bracelet:
Stones: While diamonds are almost always used, a tennis bracelet may also incorporate other semi-precious stones.
Stone shape: Round diamonds are used more than any other shape, although emerald and princess cut stones can also be used.
Metal: Most tennis bracelets are made from yellow or white gold, but rose gold is also used occasionally. Platinum is sometimes used for heavy, valuable bracelets to provide additional security.
Setting: The traditional four-prong setting is the most common setting for tennis bracelets due to the fact that it minimizes how much metal can be seen. Full and partial bezel settings and channel settings can also be used.
The cost of a tennis bracelet can vary from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand dollars or more. The price is affected by the total carat weight of the stones as well as the quality of the stones.
Just as it can be worn for any occasion, a tennis bracelet also makes the perfect gift for any occasion, whether it’s a gift for a birthday, anniversary, Mother’s Day, wedding, or even as a “push” gift for a new mom.
