Why is a tennis bracelet called a tennis bracelet?

A tennis bracelet is a jewelry piece featuring a symmetrical arrangement of diamonds or gemstones connected by a delicate chain. The name originated from a famous incident during the 1987 US Open involving tennis player Chris Evert. Today, tennis bracelets are popular fashion accessories, suitable for both casual and formal occasions. They can be worn alone or paired with other jewelry items, such as watches or engagement rings.

What is a tennis bracelet?

A tennis bracelet is a bracelet made up of a symmetrical pattern of diamonds or gemstones, connected by a thin, precious metal chain. Typically, the stones included in these bracelets are the same size, shape, colour and clarity as each other. Originally, tennis bracelets were actually known as ‘line diamond bracelets’ – however, this name is now out-dated and obsolete, having now been replaced with more popular term – tennis bracelet. 

So, why is a tennis bracelet called a tennis bracelet?

The tennis bracelet coined its name from a notable public event, rather than its origin or function. During the 1987 US Open, professional tennis player, Chris Evert, lost her George Bedewi diamond bracelet during the middle of a match. The player asked for the officials to pause the game while she searched for this missing bracelet, all while TV viewers and spectators also watched the now well-renowned tennis bracelet search. 

The diamond bracelet was recovered when Evert learnt that the reason for its disappearance was due to the clasp of the bracelet breaking. Not only did this encourage jewellers to create secure clasps for their bracelets, but due to the popularity created from this notable public event, tennis bracelets themselves were in much higher demand.

Serena Round Diamond Tennis Bracelet in White Gold Setting

How to wear a tennis bracelet

Since this well-known event, the tennis bracelet has since become an iconic fashion piece that can be styled in a variety of ways. It could be styled casually, such as Chris Evert’s original intention for the bracelet, or it can be paired with diamond earrings or a diamond necklace to become part of a more formal jewellery set. For something a little more original, whether you want to wear it casually or formally, discover some of the most unique diamond tennis bracelets from our guide.

Wondering how to wear a tennis bracelet with a watch? It’s actually become a high fashion statement to wear both a watch and a tennis bracelet on the same wrist – usually with the watch higher up the arm than the bracelet. Adding a watch into the mix creates an elegant style, giving you a fashion edge – but ensure that the diamonds or gemstones on your tennis bracelet match that of the watch for a seamless style. 

Another way to wear a tennis bracelet is as part of your bridal set. Providing its versatility once more, the tennis bracelet is a great choice to pair alongside your bridal set engagement rings.  Learn more about the various types of tennis bracelet styles and the history of tennis bracelets from our guide.

Williams Round cut Bezel set Diamond Bracelet in 18K White Gold

Now you’ve learnt what a diamond tennis bracelet is, and how to wear a tennis bracelet with a watch, it’s time to explore our variety of tennis bracelets for yourself. Whether you’re out playing the sport itself, you’re wanting a stylish new piece of jewellery to wear for an upcoming event or you simply want a casual bracelet for everyday wear, our diamond tennis bracelets are the perfect choice. If you have any more questions about what tennis bracelets are, get in touch with a member of our helpful team here at Shining Diamonds, or visit our Hatton Garden showroom.