Tennis Jewellery. Getting Served: Everything You Need To Know.
If there is a shining hero of every dream jewellery collection, it is the tennis bracelet and necklace, sleek staples that can act as a subtle yet scintillating accent to high-octane evening wear or take centre stage when paired with minimalist styling.
The iconic tennis bracelet and necklace have proven themselves to be enduring staples in luxury fine jewellery. Whether you're heading to an event, a casual brunch, or a special evening out, diamond tennis jewellery is versatile enough to add a touch of sparkle and sophistication to any look.
This incredible versatility makes it a perfect gift for almost any occasion, including anniversaries, holidays, and everything in between. But how do you choose the right piece for yourself or that special someone? This is our ultimate guide on tennis jewellery, and we cover everything you need to know about this timeless jewellery trend.
What Exactly is Tennis Jewellery?
What does tennis jewellery refer to exactly? Also known as a ‘line necklace’ or 'line bracelet', it refers to any collar-length necklace or bracelet that features a fluid line of stones, each set side by side to create a single strand of diamonds or precious gems that sit on the wrist or collarbone.
A timeless investment piece that can be worn for after-dark glamour and with your most casual outfits. Here’s how to choose and wear yours for a standout style…
How to Style Tennis Bracelets
Pair your tennis bracelet with other bracelet styles for a stacked look. Combine it with simple bangles or delicate chain bracelets for a chic, layered effect. Mixing metals is also encouraged – a tennis bracelet in white gold can be paired with yellow or rose gold pieces to create a unique and personalised stack.
How to Style Tennis Necklaces
Tennis necklaces are perfect for layering or making a statement on their own! You can mix different styles, such as combining a classic tennis necklace with modern or minimalist designs. For a bold look, start with a choker and layer your tennis necklaces beneath it. For formal events, opt for a classic uniform look, while casual outings can handle different styles or the addition of a pendant.
Daytime Elegance: Simple and Subtle
For a daytime look, less is often more. Opt for a single tennis bracelet paired with minimalistic stud earrings. This creates an effortless look that can elevate a casual outfit—like a crisp white shirt or summer dress—without feeling too overdone. The tennis bracelet adds a touch of sophistication, with its fine row of sparkling diamonds catching the light in just the right way.
You can also layer a delicate tennis necklace with other simple chains or pendants for a chic, laid-back vibe. Mixing metals, such as pairing your white gold tennis bracelet with yellow gold rings, adds texture and interest without overwhelming the overall aesthetic.
After Dark Glam: Standout Statement
When it’s time for an evening event or a special occasion, your tennis diamond collection can be the star of the show. Layer multiple tennis bracelets for a statement look, or stack them with other bangles to create depth and dimension. If you're attending a formal event, a tennis necklace paired with matching drop diamond earrings will create a polished, head-turning style.
Everyday Luxury: Effortless Confidence
Tennis diamond jewelry can even be worn as part of your everyday wardrobe. Think of it as an investment in your personal style, offering a subtle touch of luxury to your daily attire. A tennis bracelet paired with a smart blazer and jeans, for example, can strike the perfect balance between professional and stylish. Similarly, a tennis necklace can enhance a casual sweater or tailored shirt, offering understated elegance that doesn’t feel out of place.
How to Choose the Perfect Diamond Tennis Piece: The Ultimate Guide
When selecting tennis jewellery, the devil is in the detail. Nuances between designs can feel subtle at first, but the setting and sizing of stones greatly affect the finished piece. With a wide array of designs, cuts, and metals available, here’s what to consider when choosing the perfect tennis diamond jewellery.
1. Diamond Quality: Understanding the 4 Cs
The 4 Cs – Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat – play a vital role in determining the beauty and value of your piece:
Cut: The precision of the diamond’s facets affects how well they reflect light. A well-cut diamond will sparkle brilliantly, so prioritise cut quality in your tennis jewellery.
Colour: Diamonds are graded from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow). Near-colourless diamonds in the G-H range offer stunning brilliance at a lower price.
Clarity: While flawless diamonds are rare, stones with minor inclusions (graded VS1 or VS2) still offer impressive beauty without the premium price.
Carat: Larger diamonds often grab attention, but smaller diamonds can create a refined and sophisticated look, particularly in tennis bracelets or necklaces.
The ideal carat weight for a tennis bracelet for everyday wear depends on your personal style, budget, and intended use. Our most popular sizes are 3ct - 5ct. A tennis bracelet in these sizes provides a refined look that is perfect for everyday but can also be suitable for formal occasions.
2. Choosing the Right Metal
We typically recommend white gold, as it is the most classic choice, and will enhance the whiteness and brightness of the diamonds. However many people choose to match the metal color of their other jewelry. The metal you choose influences the look and durability of your tennis jewellery:
White Gold: Complements the sparkle of diamonds beautifully, ideal for a sleek, modern look.
Yellow Gold: Offers a warm, traditional appearance – perfect for vintage-inspired pieces.
Platinum: Known for its durability, platinum is a high-quality option for jewellery that withstands daily wear.
3. Finding the Perfect Fit
Tennis bracelets and necklaces should fit comfortably without being too tight or too loose. A good rule of thumb is to allow enough room for one finger between the bracelet and your wrist. For tennis necklaces, they should rest comfortably along your collarbone.
How to size yourself for a tennis bracelet
Tennis bracelets are typically measured in inches, and are offered in sizes: 6in, 6.25in, 6.50in and 7in (15.24cm, 15.88cm and 17.8cm). Use a soft measuring tape snugly around your wrist to determine your size. If you want a tighter fit, add 0.25 inches to your true, snug wrist measurement. If you want a looser fit, add 0.50 inches to that measurement.
How to Size Yourself for a Tennis Necklace:
There is no “standard” size for a Tennis necklace. Although it is typically purchased in sizes 15in, 16in, or 17in (38.1cm, 40.64 and 43.18cm). Depending on a person’s neck, each size may rest differently on different body types. For example, if you purchase a 16in tennis necklace and notice that it is flipping, this is most likely because it is either too short or too long on you.
To find the size that is best for you, we recommend wrapping a piece of string around your neck to fall where you would like the tennis necklace to lay, making sure that it lays in an oval shape that closely mimics that of a tennis necklace. From there, lay it down along a ruler to find your measurement.
What does it mean if my tennis necklace is flipping? If your tennis necklace is flipping, it is most likely the wrong length for you. It is also important to make sure you are clasping the tennis necklace with the clasp in the right direction to avoid the diamonds flipping.
Everything You Need to Know About Tennis Bracelets: A Look Back at History
Despite its sporty name, the tennis bracelet originated as a fine jewellery piece known for its delicate line of diamonds. The term "tennis bracelet" became popular in 1987 when tennis champion Chris Evert famously lost her diamond bracelet during a U.S. Open match. The game was paused as Evert searched for the bracelet, and since then, the name "tennis bracelet" has stuck.
Evert’s moment sparked a trend that has never faded. The tennis bracelet’s sleek design and secure clasp made it fashionable and practical, allowing wearers to enjoy their diamond jewellery without fear of losing it. Today, tennis bracelets remain synonymous with elegance and sportiness.
Diamond tennis jewelry stands the test of time for a variety of reasons.
Versatility: Tennis jewelry is versatile enough to be worn for any occasion, from casual outings to formal events. Its minimalist design ensures it pairs effortlessly with a wide range of outfits.
Timeless Appeal: The classic line of diamonds in tennis jewelry never goes out of style. It transcends fashion trends, making it a smart investment for anyone looking to build a lasting jewelry collection.
Resale Value: Due to its use of high-quality diamonds and precious metals, tennis jewelry tends to hold its value well. It can be passed down through generations, making it a sentimental and valuable family heirloom.
Customization: Many jewelers offer customizable tennis pieces, allowing you to choose everything from diamond size to metal type. This ensures your tennis jewelry is truly one-of-a-kind, reflecting your personal taste and style.
