Classic vs. Modern: Evolution of Tennis Bracelet Designs

You can’t go wrong with a tennis bracelet. It’s the perfect accessory for any outfit and any occasion. Tennis bracelet designs have evolved over the years, so you’ll see plenty of options from classic to modern. We’ll cover the different styles of tennis bracelets and review what you need to consider as you browse bracelets.

Introduction to Tennis Bracelets

Tennis bracelets are a style of bracelet featuring a single strand of small gemstones, typically diamonds, in a plain, flexible setting. It’s a universal piece of jewelry that works day or night, in the office, or on special occasions. Diamonds elevate any look, and a tennis bracelet is a beautiful addition to your accessory collection.

Historical Context

Tennis bracelets have been around since the 1920s, but the term “tennis bracelet” was coined years later. American tennis player Chris Evert was known for wearing a delicate diamond bracelet on the court. She was known for her eye for fashion as much as her athleticism.

Evert was playing in the 1978 U.S. Open and urgently called a time-out after her bracelet fell off. Television viewers and match spectators watched and waited as Evert looked for her bracelet. Evert found her lucky bracelet, and the match continued. However, that moment led to a shift in fashion. People were left in awe, thinking they could wear fine jewelry, such as diamond bracelets, with casual, relaxed outfits – even with activewear. After this moment, the term tennis bracelet was coined.

Classic Designs

Classic tennis bracelet designs feature diamond prong set in white gold. The prong setting provides minimal metal so the diamonds can sparkle and shine. It’s a gorgeous, elegant, sparkly accessory that goes with everything. You’ll see bracelets with different total carat weights, so bracelets with a higher carat weight will cost more. For example, this tennis bracelet features 8 carats of diamonds.

Evolution of Materials

The materials for tennis bracelets have evolved over the years. You can choose different types of metal, such as platinum or rose, white or yellow gold. Each metal gives the bracelets a different look. You’ll also see bracelets with lab grown diamonds or gemstones as well. Lab diamonds are more affordable and are also ethically sourced and sustainable.

Innovations in Design

Tennis bracelet designs have also evolved over time. You’ll see tennis bracelets with unique settings, such as bezel settings, and bracelets with design details, such as milgrain. You’ll also see tennis bracelets that mix and match stones and incorporate negative space into the designs.

Clasps have also evolved. You want the clasp to feel comfortable on your wrist, and it’s also responsible for keeping your tennis bracelet secure. You’ll see lobster clasps, box clasps, and bolo bracelets that are adjustable.

Changes in Aesthetics

While classic tennis bracelets continue to be popular, you’ll also see some trendier designs. Halo settings are a more recent trend, and they look amazing in bracelets as well. You’ll also see more glamorous bracelets, such as two rows of diamonds. You’ll also see diamonds in more unique shapes, such as hearts, pear, and emerald.

Influence of Fashion Trends

Celebrities and social media continue to influence fashion and style trends, which also applies to jewelry. Meghan Markle and Hailey Bieber are two of many celebrities who have pictures wearing diamond tennis bracelets. Meghan sports a single tennis bracelet while Hailey layers on her bracelets for more of a statement. This speaks to how versatile tennis bracelets can be.

Personalization and Customization

Consumers have more options when it comes to choosing a tennis bracelet. In addition to the hundreds of designs, you can select the metal you prefer. Most tennis bracelets come in platinum or 14K or 18K rose, yellow, or white gold. This allows you to choose your favorite metal, select a metal that compliments your jewelry collection, and create a bracelet that represents your taste and preferences. You can also select the total carat weight to fit your preferences and budget.

Sustainability and Ethical Considerations

Another option that today’s consumer has is choosing the type of diamond for the bracelets. You can opt for lab grown diamonds rather than natural diamonds for a bracelet that’s ethically made and more environmentally friendly. Some jewelers even use recycled materials like metal to reduce their carbon footprint. You can make a purchase that reflects your values and fits your way of living.

To Summarize

Tennis bracelets are one of the most versatile pieces of jewelry that you can own. It’ll last forever and will always be in style. You can wear it with a T-shirt and jeans to picnic in the park or for a date night at the theater. Dress your bracelet up by layering it with more jewelry for a special occasion, or dress it down by keeping your other jewelry more minimal. You also have plenty of tennis bracelet design options. You’ll see styles that look more classic while others have more flair, like halo-set diamonds in different cuts. You can choose the metal and the total carat weight to create a bracelet that represents your taste and style.

You can also opt for lab diamonds for a more affordable bracelet with ethical and environmental benefits. Check the clasp of any tennis bracelet that you’re considering to make sure your stunning bracelet is safe and secure on the wrist.