29.08.24

The Ultimate Guide to Tennis Bracelets

Ahhh, tennis bracelets, one of the most classic pieces of jewelry in modern history. They’ve been making a name for themselves since the 80s, but diamond bracelets have been around a lot longer than that! I mean, who doesn’t love being literally wrapped in an endless line of diamonds?

To celebrate this timeless style and updating it with signature Frank Darling style. We’ve taken some liberties in restyling the tennis bracelet. This month, we’re launching a bevy of new tennis bracelet styles perfectly suited to modern life and the looks you’re, well, looking for. So let’s dive into what makes this style so irresistible and take a look at how we’ve managed to turn up the volume on perfection.

What is a Tennis Bracelet?

Ok, so if you’re not familiar, it’s helpful to know some basics first. A tennis bracelet is a classic piece of jewelry featuring a symmetrical line of diamonds or gemstones that go all the way around the wrist. It’s elegant, timeless, and perfect for any occasion.

The name “tennis bracelet” comes from a 1987 incident involving tennis star Chris Evert. During a now-famous match, her diamond bracelet broke and fell off her wrist, and she famously stopped the match to search for it.

Ever since, this style has been known as the tennis bracelet. From the wrists of everyone from the mom next door to red carpet celebs, the tennis bracelet is incredibly popular. They are elegant, sophisticated, and available in a wide variety of styles, sizes, metals, and price points, so there’s something for everyone!

A stack of three diamond tennis bracelets are worn on the wrist. On the bottom, a prong set round brilliant band, then a bezel set emerald bracelet in yellow gold, and a princess cut prong set bracelet — Like rings, tennis bracelets serve serious sparkle when stacked. And yes, you can mix metals (it’s uber chic!).

So What Are the Different Styles of Tennis Bracelets?

While the original style is certainly perfect in its own right, this month, we’re excited to introduce three stunning new styles: bezel set, half bezel set, and east-west set diamond tennis bracelets. Let’s break them down:

Bezel set tennis bracelets

Classic tennis bracelets most often feature prong set diamonds, but we went sleek and modern with a bezel-set number. This encircles each diamond in a thin rim of metal. Not only is it bold and super-sleek, but it also offers extra security for the stones, making it perfect for anyone with an active lifestyle. Plus, bezels won’t catch and snag on all your favorite sweaters.

The Briquette tennis bracelet. A tennis bracelet with thick gold bezel set around emerald cut diamonds — Buttery bezel enrobes an emerald cut diamond to produces a bracelet that’s anything but another ‘briquette’ in the wall.

A yellow gold tennis bracelet with east west set emeralds and half-bezel setting — Looking for a bracelet that’s not quite fully covered but also not prong set? The half bezel has you covered.

Half bezel set tennis bracelets

For a unique twist, the half bezel set style offers partial encasement of the diamonds. We call it the Plutch, kind of a plunge meets clutch situation, if you read. This one is a low-profile look that is comfortably chic, striking a balance between classic and contemporary.

East west tennis bracelets

This style turns the traditional bracelet on its side—literally! The east west setting aligns elongated diamonds horizontally end-to-end, instead of side-to-side. It’s a cool-girl aesthetic that’s clean and linear and sure to turn heads.

An oval diamond tennis bracelet set east west in yellow gold — Flip the idea of a tennis bracelet on its head with the east west set style for a wholly original yet totally timeless look.

We’re so excited about how these new tennis bracelet designs add a fresh twist to this uber-classic piece of jewelry without taking away from its overall style appeal. They are all completely trend-proof and designed to be a piece you can wear everyday, from brunch to boardroom to dancing all night.

How Much Does a Tennis Bracelet Cost?

Like all diamond jewelry, the price of a tennis bracelet can vary widely based on several factors including diamond quality (make sure you have a good understanding of the 4Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat), metal type such as gold or platinum, and brand and craftsmanship.

Going for a major name brand might cost you extra, so know what you’re paying for, and how to stretch your budget. You can also find natural diamond tennis bracelets or lab grown diamond tennis bracelets, which will vary a lot in price. Lab grown diamonds cost about half of what natural diamonds do. So add that up with a ton of diamonds in a bracelet and it will make a big difference, without changing the look of your bracelet one bit.

Two people exchange a pinky promise. They each wear a diamond tennis bracelet — Consider this our formal application for making “friendship tennis bracelets” a thing. Because, beads are cool, but diamonds? They’re better.

A shadow of an arm is cast onto a blue surface. Two diamond tennis bracelets are splayed in a wavy pattern over the wrist section of the shadow — There seem to be a million and one rules for wearing diamond jewelry but what it really comes down to is rocking a piece you love and having confidence while wearing it. Ensure those two things and you’ll never be out of style.

How to Style a Tennis Bracelet

One of the most versatile pieces of jewelry you’ll ever own, tennis bracelets can truly be styled for any occasion. Pair it with jeans and a T for an understated, casual look. Wear it to the office with a button-up and heels. Or go formal by adding more diamond jewelry to the look for a black-tie event.

Don’t be afraid to mix metals, styles, and diamond shapes. Get one that’s round and one that’s emerald cut, for instance. Or try mixing yellow and white gold. You can also layer your tennis bracelet with bangles or pair it with a statement watch. There really is no wrong way to wear one.

How to Select the Perfect Tennis Bracelet for Gifting

If you’re going to gift a diamond tennis bracelet (we love this idea), pay attention to your giftee’s jewelry preferences. Choose a metal color that blends with the metal they usually wear. Do they prefer petite jewelry? Stick to smaller carat weights. Do they like big, bold looks? Go for larger weights, bezel settings, or more unique diamond shapes. Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or other special milestone, choose a tennis bracelet that suits the celebration and consider personalizing it to make it extra special.

Prong set diamond tennis bracelets sparkle in the sun — If you’re looking for a clean, classic look go for our OG Tennis Bracelet. Stunning, sparkly, and sweet, this bracelet is a can’t-fail, gotta-have-it gift.

FAQs

How do I care for my tennis bracelet?

First of all, avoid wearing your diamond tennis bracelet during strenuous activities like gardening, working out, etc. This will help prevent damage. And give it a once-over every time you put it on just to check that everything still looks good. You can also give it a regular cleaning at home with gentle dish soap and water (use a soft toothbrush to get in the nooks and crannies). Regular professional cleaning and inspections will also help keep your bracelet sparkling and secure.

A woman wears three types of tennis bracelets: a round brilliant, emerald cut diamond set north south, and an emerald cut diamond that is set east west — Treat your tennis bracelets with care and they’ll return the favor.

Unlike eternity rings that offer a more rigid structure, tennis bracelets are more flexible. So should you need it resized, you’re in luck!

Can tennis bracelets be resized?

Yes, in fact! Sure, ordering the correct size the first time is the best, but if that doesn’t quite happen, a professional jeweler can help you with a resize by adding or removing links.

What should I look for in a quality tennis bracelet?

Just like purchasing any other diamond jewelry, focus on the quality of the diamonds (the four Cs), the craftsmanship of the setting, and the reputation of the jeweler. And look for a style you love!

A stack of three tennis bracelets are worn as a hand holds a tennis racquet — Reading this caption before 9/1? You’re in luck! Use code SERVESHINE and receive 15% off your tennis bracelet order. Your tennis game has never looked so good.

Check Out The Goods

This month’s new tennis bracelet styles—bezel set, half bezel set, and east-west—are perfect for updating your jewelry collection with a modern twist. A tennis bracelet is more than just an accessory; it’s a timeless piece that tells a story. Ready to find your perfect tennis bracelet? Explore our new collection and discover the style that speaks to you.