Tennis has long been one of the most popular sports, with the Grand Slam consisting of the four major tournaments in the sport: the Australian Open, the French Open, Wimbledon, and the US Open. The racket sport is believed to have originated in France during the 12th century, and it is still one of the most widely followed and played sports to this day.
A more contemporary style of jewelry, the term’ tennis bracelet’ was only coined in the 1970s. Tennis is not only popular for the sport itself, but for the fashion and style that accompanies it. From on-court styling to tennis stars' off-court looks, the public is fascinated by all things tennis. The tennis bracelet has become synonymous with the tennis aesthetic, with players such as Serena Williams wearing the bracelet. We know that the tennis bracelet is associated with the sport, but how exactly and when did it get its name?
Why Is It Called A Tennis Bracelet?
Long before it was called a tennis bracelet, the pavé diamond-lined bracelet was known more commonly as an eternity bracelet. We have Chris Evert to thank for the name ‘tennis bracelet’. The professional US tennis player had a successful career between 1972 and 1989, and she was renowned for wearing jewelry on the court. The '70s were a time when low-key practical glamour was in its heyday, as demonstrated by the introduction of Cartier's Love bracelet.
In the 1978 US Open, Evert’s George Bedewi diamond bracelet broke off during a game and fell onto the tennis court. Evert asked the officials for a timeout so that the bracelet could be recovered. As this was a televised event, it drew attention to this style of bracelet, which created its rising popularity. In an interview after the match, Evert said ‘that was my tennis bracelet’, marking the first time the term ‘tennis bracelet’ was used, at least in a public setting.
Following the event, George Bedewi and other jewelers around the world fully embraced the trend and diamond bracelets began being referred to as tennis bracelets more regularly.
What Is A Tennis Bracelet?
According to Collins Dictionary, a tennis bracelet is ‘a bracelet consisting of a single strand of small stones, usually diamonds in a plain setting’. The tennis bracelet displays a symmetrical arrangement of diamonds in a thin line. They may be referred to simply as a diamond bracelet or an eternity bracelet. They may differ depending on the thickness of the bracelet, the metal, and the stone used. One of the key features of the tennis bracelet is the clasp fastening, which will vary depending on the model and brand. However, they are typically made for a sturdy closure to prevent them from falling off, as happened in the aforementioned 1978 game.
The Best Tennis Bracelets
Elegant and minimalist, a traditional tennis bracelet won’t vary much in design. There are two primary style aspects to take into account. The first is the size of the stones, which will impact the thickness of the bracelet. The second is the metal, which will typically be white gold, platinum, or yellow gold.
Yellow Gold Tennis Bracelets
The golden hue of yellow gold contrasts with the diamonds for more of a statement look. Slightly less common, this style is perfect for people who prefer to wear yellow gold over silvery tones.
White Gold Tennis Bracelets
This is the most traditional style of tennis bracelet, matching perfectly with the transparent, luminous nature of the diamond stones.
Top tip: You want your tennis bracelet to fit fairly close to the skin so it doesn't move around too much. Measure your wrist to determine what size will fit you best, you can always get it adjusted at a jeweler's.
How To Style A Tennis Bracelet
The uniform shape of the tennis bracelet makes it perfect for wearing with other jewelry. It looks great paired with similar width bracelets, either in a mix of metal hues or sticking to the same tone. As an everyday jewelry design, it looks just as good on its own as it does in a stack.
How Much Is A Tennis Bracelet?
As with all jewelry, this will depend on a number of factors. For example, the quality of the diamonds, where you source the bracelet from, and the other materials used. A branded designer tennis bracelet is going to have a price inflation. At resale or through an independent jewelry brand, you can expect to pay somewhere between $1,000 and $15,000 for a good quality tennis bracelet.
Where Can I Buy A Tennis Bracelet?
In terms of practical jewelry, tennis bracelets are the pinnacle. The sleek appearance makes them perfect for whether you’re playing tennis on a sunny afternoon or you’re off to the office. myGemma stocks diamond jewelry at prices you’ll love, including the famous tennis bracelet. With myGemma you're sure to get the very best quality for your budget. Available in both yellow gold and white gold, there is a tennis bracelet to suit your needs.
How To Sell A Tennis Bracelet
If you no longer wear your tennis bracelet, then it is time to part ways. myGemma buys designer and luxury jewelry, offering the best price for the accessories you no longer love. The selling process is easy, secure, and can take as little as 24 hours. It’s time to get selling with myGemma, fill out the form today to get started.
