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29.08.24
What Is a Tennis Bracelet? A Guide to Types, Styles & Cost
Ahhh, the tennis bracelet, 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! After all, who doesn’t love being literally wrapped in an endless line of diamonds? But, umm, what is a tennis bracelet – actually, and do you have to know how to play tennis to properly rock one? We’re calling a set break. Let’s go over what a tennis bracelet is, the many different types, styles, and what you might need to spend.
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. (Don’t wear your tennis bracelet while working out, folks!)
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.
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Prong vs. Bezel Settings: What’s the Difference?
When selecting your tennis bracelet, you might find yourself face-to-face with one important question. Do you want a prong set bracelet or a bezel one? And as with most things, the right answer depends on a number of factors. so it’s important to know the difference between the styles and their pros and cons.
Prong vs. Bezel Settings: The Primary Difference
Choosing your setting in the great prong vs. bezel debate directly impacts your bracelet’s style and security. The classic prong setting is the “OG” for a reason; it uses tiny metal claws to hold each diamond. Consequently, this minimal coverage allows light to hit the diamond from all sides, delivering maximum sparkle and a timeless, delicate look.
On the other hand, the bezel setting provides a sleek, modern aesthetic by wrapping each diamond in a custom metal rim. This design offers extra security, confidently protecting the stones during an active lifestyle. Furthermore, its smooth, enclosed profile means it won’t catch or snag on your favorite sweaters. Ultimately, your choice is simple: prioritize traditional, brilliant fire with prongs, or opt for the secure, modern chic of a bezel.
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The Pros and Cons of Prong Set Tennis Bracelets
Let’s break down the prong setting, because as great as it is, every choice is a trade-off.
- Pro: Unapologetic Sparkle. This is its entire mission. By using minimal metal, the prong setting lets light attack the diamond from all sides. Consequently, you get the most intense, fiery brilliance possible. Nothing else quite compares.
- Pro: It’s the Timeless Classic. This is the “OG” look for a reason. It’s elegant, traditional, and showcases the diamonds themselves, not the metalwork. It’s a style that will, quite literally, never be wrong.
- Con: The Snag Factor. Those tiny metal claws, as great as they are for sparkle, are notorious for catching on your favorite knit sweaters, blankets, or even your hair. It’s not a deal-breaker, but it is an annoyance.
- Con: Higher Maintenance. Because the prongs stick out, they are more susceptible to getting knocked or bent. This means you have to be a bit more mindful. Therefore, we recommend regular check-ups to ensure all your stones are still locked in tight and secure.
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Pros and Cons of Bezel Set Tennis Bracelets
And what about the bezel setting? This is for the person who values a sleek profile and total peace of mind.
- Pro: The “No-Snag” Guarantee. This is its superpower. By encasing the diamond in a smooth metal rim, this bracelet glides over clothes. Therefore, it will never, ever catch on your favorite sweater or snag your hair. It’s the ultimate choice for an active, everyday lifestyle.
- Pro: Modern Style & Versatility. A bezel setting feels incredibly chic and architectural. It gives the bracelet a substantial, modern look. Plus, you have options: a full bezel offers a bold, statement-making feel, while a half-bezel provides a unique, airy, and contemporary twist.
- Con: Cleaning Requires Finesse. All that protective metal creates a tiny rim where lotions and soaps love to hide. Consequently, you’ll need to be a bit more diligent (think: a soft toothbrush) to clean that edge and keep your diamonds looking their absolute brightest.
- Con: It’s a Metal-Forward Look. This isn’t a bad thing; it’s a look. But be aware that the bezel itself becomes a major part of the design. The metal collar is prominent and adds visual weight, which is a key part of its modern appeal, but is a different aesthetic from the “floating diamond” look of a prong setting.
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Our Visual Guide To the Different Tennis Bracelet Styles
Ok, you now understand just what a diamond tennis bracelet is and the difference between the two main settings (prong vs. bezel). But did you know that was just the beginning? In fact, there’s an entire world of unique tennis bracelet styles out there. From curvy and modern to classic and chic. Let’s dive in.
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 Set 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.
Classic Prong Set Tennis Bracelets
If someone were to tell you to close your eyes and think of a tennis bracelet – this is the type you’d most likely see in your head. An endless row of sparkling diamonds, often, but not limited to round, are prong set for a clean and chic look.
Full Bezel Tennis Bracelets
Gold enrobes your stone in a full bezel tennis bracelet. And because of this, many opt for striking yellow gold instead of platinum or white gold. It’s eye catching, cozy, and essentially like a warm hug but for your wrist.
Modern, Curvy Tennis Bracelets
Looking for a tennis bracelet with a little extra something-something? Get curvy with it. Curvy tennis bracelets have a more structured and rigid design than their flexible counters. It’s what allows them to go with the flow while keeping their shape. We set our curved diamond bracelet in bezel to amp up that modern feel. It’s perfect for those looking for the next big trend and aren’t afraid of life’s little curveballs.
What to Look For in a Quality Tennis Bracelet
Like all diamond jewelry, the price of a tennis bracelet can vary widely based on several factors including diamond quality (you know, everyone’s favorite 4Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat), metal type such as yellow, white, and rose 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’ll also be faced with the option to shop natural diamond tennis bracelets or lab grown diamond tennis bracelets. While natural and lab grown diamonds are actually 100% identical in their looks and chemical composition, they differ in price. Lab grown diamonds can cost about half of what natural diamonds do. Add that up with a ton of diamonds in your bracelet and it will make a big difference that doesn’t change the look one bit.
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.
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, or playing tennis (yes, really). This will help prevent damage. 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). Want to be a champion tennis bracelet wearer? Regular professional cleaning and inspections can keep your bracelet sparkling and secure.
Can tennis bracelets be resized?
Yes, tennis bracelets can be resized. Sure, ordering the correct size the first time is the best, but if that doesn’t quite happen, we can help. When you order an incorrectly sized tennis bracelet from us, resizing that bracelet is viewed as an exchange and can be exchanged free during our 30 day exchange window.
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. Oh, and there are a wealth of tennis bracelet styles out there so be sure to not settle, look for a style you love!
Up for a Round of Tennis?
Have a sudden hankering for a round of tennis? Us too. But we’re throwing in the racquet and declaring this match love-love. Ok, maybe that didn’t make sense to tennis aficionados but if you consider yourself a fine jewelry aficionado- you’re in luck. Our lab grown diamond tennis bracelets are secure, stylish, and oh-so-sparkly. And with a variety of styles, from a brilliant bezel beauty to sexi-flexi curveball, we’ve got something for everyone. So go ahead, browse our stunning lab diamond tennis bracelets or reach out and schedule a fine jewelry consultation to create sparkle that stops-games and serves sparkle. Just remember: Please don’t actually wear your tennis bracelet on the court.
Currently blending luxury with lexicon to pen, edit, and manage the Frank Darling journal, Molly has written for VRAI, Clean Origin, and Olivia Ewing Jewelry. A lover of all things sparkly (including disco balls), she prefers portrait, step, and vintage cut diamonds with warm champagne hues.