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The Allure of the Tennis Bracelet
By Janina MesserlianJuly 22, 2024
A Timeless Jewelry Staple
The tennis bracelet, a timeless piece of diamond jewelry, owes its name and popularization to a dramatic sports incident involving tennis star Chris Evert. During the 1987 U.S. Open, Evert, known for her elegant style both on and off the court, halted an intense match to search for her diamond bracelet, which had flung off her wrist. This interruption captured widespread attention, leading to the bracelet's rebranding as the "tennis bracelet."
However, the history of this elegant accessory predates this event. Originally referred to as eternity bracelets, these flexible, symmetrical designs featuring an unbroken circle of diamonds or gemstones became popular in the 1920s. Art Deco influences are evident in their simple yet sophisticated patterns, which symbolize eternal love and commitment. Over the decades, the tennis bracelet evolved, with jewelers incorporating various metals and innovative clasp designs to ensure security and style. Its association with the world of sports and fashion, particularly through Evert’s endorsement, cemented its enduring status as a must-have accessory. Today, the tennis bracelet remains a beloved piece, cherished for its versatility, elegance and the fascinating story that connects it to the world of tennis and high fashion.
Evolving Trends
The traditional tennis bracelet, favored by the "old money," crowd embodies classic sophistication and understated luxury. These bracelets often feature high-quality, evenly matched diamonds or gemstones set in platinum or white gold, reflecting a preference for subtlety and tradition. The designs are typically simple yet impeccable, with a focus on flawless craftsmanship and the enduring appeal of timeless elegance.
On the other hand, contemporary minds have brought a fresh, bold approach to the tennis bracelet, embracing modernity and innovation. Contemporary styles often experiment with mixed metals, including rose gold and black rhodium, and incorporate colored gemstones, asymmetrical patterns and unique cuts, such as baguette or princess diamonds. These modern adaptations reflect a desire to stand out and make a statement, blending luxury with a touch of individualism and trend-conscious design. Despite these differences, both "old money" and "new money" enthusiasts value the tennis bracelet for its versatility and enduring charm, whether it’s worn as a singular statement piece or layered with other bracelets for a more eclectic look. The evolution of the tennis bracelet from traditional to modern styles highlights the dynamic nature of fashion and jewelry, where historical elegance and contemporary flair coexist, each enhancing the bracelet's iconic status in the world of luxury accessories.
A Family Heirloom
Tennis bracelets make excellent family heirlooms due to their timeless elegance, enduring quality, and significant sentimental value. Widely regarded as a staple of any fine jewelry collection, their classic and versatile design transcends generations, ensuring they remain stylish and cherished over time. Their craftsmanship typically involves high-quality materials such as platinum, gold, and meticulously selected gemstones, making them durable pieces that can withstand the test of time. The inherent value of the precious metals and stones often appreciates over the years, adding to the financial worth of the bracelet as an heirloom.
Find the Perfect Tennis Bracelet at Baxter’s Fine Jewelry
Shop diamond staple jewelry, including tennis bracelets, at Baxter’s Fine Jewelry. The classic jewelry piece has evolved over the years, but remains a symbol of luxury. A tennis bracelet makes an excellent gift for a loved one, or an elegant addition to your own collection.
Related Article: Glowing in Gold
The tennis bracelet, a timeless piece of diamond jewelry, owes its name and popularization to a dramatic sports incident involving tennis star Chris Evert. During the 1987 U.S. Open, Evert, known for her elegant style both on and off the court, halted an intense match to search for her diamond bracelet, which had flung off her wrist. This interruption captured widespread attention, leading to the bracelet's rebranding as the "tennis bracelet."
However, the history of this elegant accessory predates this event. Originally referred to as eternity bracelets, these flexible, symmetrical designs featuring an unbroken circle of diamonds or gemstones became popular in the 1920s. Art Deco influences are evident in their simple yet sophisticated patterns, which symbolize eternal love and commitment. Over the decades, the tennis bracelet evolved, with jewelers incorporating various metals and innovative clasp designs to ensure security and style. Its association with the world of sports and fashion, particularly through Evert’s endorsement, cemented its enduring status as a must-have accessory. Today, the tennis bracelet remains a beloved piece, cherished for its versatility, elegance and the fascinating story that connects it to the world of tennis and high fashion.
Evolving Trends
The traditional tennis bracelet, favored by the "old money," crowd embodies classic sophistication and understated luxury. These bracelets often feature high-quality, evenly matched diamonds or gemstones set in platinum or white gold, reflecting a preference for subtlety and tradition. The designs are typically simple yet impeccable, with a focus on flawless craftsmanship and the enduring appeal of timeless elegance.
On the other hand, contemporary minds have brought a fresh, bold approach to the tennis bracelet, embracing modernity and innovation. Contemporary styles often experiment with mixed metals, including rose gold and black rhodium, and incorporate colored gemstones, asymmetrical patterns and unique cuts, such as baguette or princess diamonds. These modern adaptations reflect a desire to stand out and make a statement, blending luxury with a touch of individualism and trend-conscious design. Despite these differences, both "old money" and "new money" enthusiasts value the tennis bracelet for its versatility and enduring charm, whether it’s worn as a singular statement piece or layered with other bracelets for a more eclectic look. The evolution of the tennis bracelet from traditional to modern styles highlights the dynamic nature of fashion and jewelry, where historical elegance and contemporary flair coexist, each enhancing the bracelet's iconic status in the world of luxury accessories.
A Family Heirloom
Tennis bracelets make excellent family heirlooms due to their timeless elegance, enduring quality, and significant sentimental value. Widely regarded as a staple of any fine jewelry collection, their classic and versatile design transcends generations, ensuring they remain stylish and cherished over time. Their craftsmanship typically involves high-quality materials such as platinum, gold, and meticulously selected gemstones, making them durable pieces that can withstand the test of time. The inherent value of the precious metals and stones often appreciates over the years, adding to the financial worth of the bracelet as an heirloom.
Find the Perfect Tennis Bracelet at Baxter’s Fine Jewelry
Shop diamond staple jewelry, including tennis bracelets, at Baxter’s Fine Jewelry. The classic jewelry piece has evolved over the years, but remains a symbol of luxury. A tennis bracelet makes an excellent gift for a loved one, or an elegant addition to your own collection.
Related Article: Glowing in Gold