Ultimate Tennis Bracelet Buying Guide: Tips and Recommendations To Find the Perfect Tennis Bracelet

A tennis bracelet is an essential piece in every diamond lover’s jewelry box. This iconic wrist wear first gained popularity in the 1920s but earned its name in the late 80s during the women’s US Open when a player lost her diamond bracelet after an intense serve. Since this jaw-dropping moment, bracelets featuring a row of diamonds have been called tennis bracelets.

But don’t let its name fool you! Tennis bracelets are designed to be worn on and off the court. These bracelets are far from athletic wear. The classic design complements any style and looks just as elegant paired with an evening gown as it does with a casual sweater and denim. 

While the design of a tennis bracelet might seem simple, finding the perfect one can be a challenge. So follow this tennis bracelet shopping guide to determine which style and size fits your wardrobe.

What is a Tennis Bracelet?

What makes a bracelet a tennis bracelet? Tennis bracelets have a single line of stones, usually diamonds. Each gem is the same size, cut, clarity, and color. There are three styles of tennis bracelets: bezel, channel, and prong setting. The most popular tennis bracelet is the classic, 4-prong diamond setting that features a row of individual set diamonds that circle the wrist and is secured with a delicate clasp.

What is the difference between a tennis bracelet and a regular bracelet?

The main design features that separate tennis bracelets from other styles of wristwear include:

• All stones are uniform
• Held together with metal prongs and/or chain
• A straight line of diamonds
• Simple, elegant design

Tennis bracelets are commonly worn on the same wrist as your watch. While these stunning bracelets look luxurious and chic on their own, wearing them stacked with other bracelets or a watch is an alternative style option.

Different Types of Tennis Bracelets

Channel Tennis Bracelet

Diamond channel tennis bracelets feature a row of identical diamonds held in place by tension settings. This contemporary jewelry design is preferred by those who like to layer jewelry. 

Example: Baguette Diamond Channel Set Bangle

If you are looking for a show-stopping bracelet that will catch the eye of every person you walk past, a channel tennis bracelet fits the bill. This piece features three rows of natural diamonds, but the highlight is the dazzling center row of baguette gems. Designed to stack with other bracelets or a watch, this modern diamond tennis bracelet can be styled in endless ways.

Classic 4-Prong Tennis Bracelet

A 4-prong diamond setting is an iconic tennis bracelet design. This classic layout features an elegant row of diamonds held in place by individual 4-prong settings.

Example: Eternity Diamond Tennis Bracelet

This iconic tennis bracelet features 83 natural diamonds. Choose the total carat weight based on your budget. The most popular choice weighs in at 2.10CT and is encased in 14k white gold. Each diamond is held in place by a 4-prong setting and exudes grace and elegance. Add this timeless piece to your jewelry box and instantly add a touch of sophistication and glam to any outfit.

Bezel Tennis Bracelet

The bezel setting is circular and offers a whimsical aesthetic to the typical tennis bracelet design. Most bezel-set tennis bracelets feature space between diamond settings. This style is more minimalist and can be more affordable than channel or 4-prong tennis bracelets. 

Example: Diamond Station Bracelet

This delicate diamond tennis bracelet includes seven natural diamonds secured in an elegant bezel. The diamonds are set an inch apart and grace the wrist with the perfect touch of sparkle. Choose from 14k white, yellow, or rose gold to match your style preferences. This moderately priced tennis bracelet is an excellent gift option for birthdays, anniversaries, and holidays.

How Much Do Diamond Tennis Bracelets Cost?

Several factors impact the cost of a diamond tennis bracelet. Every stone in the bracelet must be as identical as possible, and cultivating a significant number of diamonds with the same color, clarity, and cut adds to the price of the tennis bracelet. So channel and 4-prong tennis bracelets that require exceptional continuity are more expensive, given the number of diamonds in the design. In addition, the type of metal used in the tennis bracelet influences cost. 

Due to the popularity of diamond tennis bracelets, jewelry designers offer pieces at various prices. However, the average shopper spends between $1,500 and $3,000 on a tennis bracelet.

Tennis Bracelet FAQs

Why is it called a tennis bracelet?

The tennis bracelet earned its name in 1987 after women’s tennis pro Chris Evert served a ball in the US Open tournament with such force that her diamond tennis bracelet flew off her wrist.

Should a tennis bracelet be tight or loose?

While a tennis bracelet should be tight enough not to slip off your wrist without undoing the clasp, it should also be loose enough to place one or two fingers between it and your wrist. Get your tennis bracelet properly sized at a jewelry store.

What is the most popular tennis bracelet?

The classic 4-prong, single-row diamond tennis bracelet is the most popular tennis bracelet setting.

Which wrist do you wear a tennis bracelet on?

Tennis bracelets should be worn on the same wrist as a watch. So, if you are right-handed, wear a tennis bracelet on the left wrist. If you are left-handed, wear a tennis bracelet on the right wrist.