As London’s SW19 once more finds itself under the sporting spotlight with Wimbledon and we find ourselves ever closer to the finals, jewellery fans may be thinking about resurfacing their classic diamond tennis bracelets to celebrate. For this timeless piece of jewellery – which was first popularised by Chris Evert in the 1970s – has become a style staple.
What is a tennis bracelet?
The modern tennis bracelet can actually trace its origins back to the Art Deco era, when society hostesses adorned themselves with simple but effortlessly stylish platinum and diamond-set ‘line’ bracelets. These days, the design remains largely the same – a single line of identical diamonds or other gemstones joined together by a delicate gold, silver or platinum chain.
Why is it called a tennis bracelet?
It wasn’t until the late 1970s that the bracelet was given its moniker. This was thanks to American tennis player Chris Evert, who was already renowned for wearing her favourite line bracelet on the court. When she famously stopped play during the 1978 US Open to retrieve her beloved bracelet, which had fallen off her wrist, the piece became forever associated with the sport.
Which celebrities wear tennis bracelets?
The tennis bracelet has adorned some of the world’s most famous wrists over the years, including the late Princess Diana and Sarah Jessica Parker, as well as players including Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams. The classic design has enjoyed a recent revival of late, spotted on the likes of Hailey Bieber, the Duchess of Sussex and Kate Moss.
Where can I buy a tennis bracelet?
Look to storied houses such as Cartier, De Beers or Tiffany & Co. for sleek models of the original 1970s iteration, crafted in platinum, white or yellow gold and set with white diamonds. Or consider contemporary makers such as Anita Ko and Kolours, whose chunkier tennis bracelets have been updated with other colourful gemstones for a chic twist. Whether you choose to wear them alone or amidst a bracelet stack, they’re guaranteed to look ace.
