The world first fell in love with Tennis bracelets—which are currently gaining in popularity—back in 1920, when they were known as “eternity bracelets.” Lovers would give them to their sweethearts, and they paired stylishly with engagement and wedding rings. The subtle sparkle of the diamonds shone beautifully in the setting of parties, restaurants, and formal receptions, illuminated by abundant lights and candles. And since 1978, following an unexpected incident at the Grand Slam tournament, the “eternity bracelet” took on a more athletic name and became the Tennis bracelet, coveted by red-carpet stars.
Experts from “Auksinė Svajonė” Jewelry tell us about the history of the Tennis bracelet and what makes it so popular. We invite you to find out!
A TENNIS bracelet is a narrow, elegant band of gold or platinum that wraps around the wrist, generously set with diamonds, emeralds, or other gemstones of uniform size. There are very small gaps between the gemstones, through which the precious metal is visible. Although white gold or platinum is most commonly used for a classic tennis bracelet, other colors of precious metals (yellow gold, rose gold, and others) are currently gaining popularity.
As jewelry experts note, white gold was chosen for the classic Tennis bracelet because it particularly enhances the impression that the white diamonds are “floating” freely on the wrist.
From the moment it first appeared, the popularity of this narrow, diamond-encrusted bracelet grew at lightning speed. And although it was initially called the “eternity bracelet,” the term “Tennis bracelet” entered the jewelry lexicon in 1978, when tennis star Chris Evert lost her diamond bracelet while playing on center court during the US Open Grand Slam tournament. While she searched for her diamond bracelet, play was temporarily halted, and the entire audience watched with bated breath as the search for the luxurious piece of jewelry unfolded. Since then, the “eternity bracelet” has become the popular “Tennis bracelet.”
Later, tennis star Chris Evert, in collaboration with designer Monica Rich Kosann, created her own line of Tennis bracelets, which reminded her of those nostalgic moments at the 1978 U.S. Open Grand Slam tournament.
As designers note, the diamond bracelet’s immense popularity stems from its versatility: it pairs perfectly with a luxurious evening gown, adds a touch of sophistication to everyday outfits—whether worn with jeans—or even while showcasing elegant movements on the tennis court.
Chris Evert changed the way women around the world view luxury jewelry. Women began wearing diamond bracelets every day and pairing them with a variety of outfits and other jewelry, such as watches, wedding rings, engagement rings, other bracelets, and so on.
Tennis bracelets are also very popular among red-carpet stars, including celebrities such as Hailey and Justin Bieber, Drake, Billie Eilish, tennis player Serena Williams, and other well-known figures. To create a more dazzling look, they layer diamond tennis bracelets, thereby enhancing the effect of these exceptionally sparkling gemstones.
You can purchase stylish Tennis bracelets, set with diamonds, colored emeralds, sapphires, or other gemstones, at the “Auksinė Svajonė” online store, and our jewelry experts will be happy to advise you on choosing the right size for your piece and introduce you to the characteristics of the gemstones.