What Is a Diamond Tennis Bracelet, and Why Is It Called That?
A tennis bracelet with diamonds is a stunning piece of jewellery featuring a single, continuous row of stones, typically set in precious metal like gold or platinum. The name “tennis bracelet” comes from a famous 1987 incident when tennis champion Chris Evert’s bracelet fell off during a U.S. Open match. She paused the game to search for her lost bracelet, drawing significant attention. As a result, this incident led to the term “tennis bracelet.”
What Are the Different Diamond Shapes Used, and Which Is the Most Popular?
Tennis bracelets commonly feature round brilliant-cut diamonds due to their exceptional sparkle and versatility. However, you can also find other diamond shapes like princess-cut, emerald-cut, and oval-cut, depending on personal preference. While round brilliant-cut diamonds remain the most popular choice, many choose different shapes to create a unique and personalized look.
How Are the Diamonds Graded for Quality?
Jewellers grade diamonds in tennis bracelets using the Four Cs: carat weight, colour, clarity, and cut. Carat weight measures the size of the diamonds, usually ranging from a few carats to over ten carats, depending on your preference and budget. Additionally, colour grades range from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). Most tennis bracelets feature stones in the near-colourless range (G to J) for a balanced appearance. Furthermore, clarity assesses the presence of internal or external flaws (inclusions or blemishes). Most tennis bracelets feature stones with clarity grades of VS1 to SI2, where inclusions are not visible to the naked eye. Finally, cut quality, which affects sparkle, is usually preferred in the Ideal or Excellent range for maximum brilliance.
What Are the Different Metal Options?
Tennis bracelet settings come in various metals, including white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum. The choice of metal significantly impacts the bracelet’s appearance. White gold offers a contemporary and timeless look, often chosen to complement the brilliance of diamonds. On the other hand, yellow gold provides a classic and warm appearance, creating a traditional and elegant look. Meanwhile, rose gold adds a romantic and feminine touch, resulting in a unique and trendy aesthetic. Platinum, known for its durability and rarity, provides a sleek and sophisticated backdrop for diamonds.
How Can I Choose the Right Size for a Tennis Bracelet?
Choosing the right size for a tennis bracelet depends on your personal preference and wrist size. To determine the ideal length, measure your wrist and add approximately 1 to 1.5 cm for comfort. Standard lengths for tennis bracelets are approximately 16.5 cm, 18 cm, and 19 cm. If you prefer a snug fit, choose the smaller size. Conversely, if you prefer a looser fit, opt for a longer length.
Are There Any Care Tips for Maintaining a Diamond Bracelet?
To keep your diamond tennis bracelet looking its best, follow these care tips:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean it with a soft brush, warm water, and mild detergent to remove dirt and oils that can dull its sparkle.
- Professional Inspection: Have your jeweller inspect your bracelet annually to ensure the settings are secure.
- Safe Storage: Store it in a soft pouch or lined jewellery box to prevent scratches.
- Avoid Chemicals: Keep your bracelet away from harsh chemicals, as they can damage both the stones and the metal.
By following these care tips, you can maintain the beauty and longevity of your diamond tennis bracelet for years to come.
