What is a Tennis Bracelet?
Welcome to MitGlobal Dubai Sports blog, today we will cover everything you need to know about the history and design of tennis bracelets.
A tennis bracelet is a type of jewelry, usually made of diamonds or other precious stones, set in either gold or silver metal. It gained popularity in the 1980s, due to tennis star Chris Evert famously losing her diamond bracelet during a championship match.
The history of tennis bracelets can be traced back to the late 19th century, when the French jeweler Marcel Boucher invented a bracelet featuring a flexible setting of diamonds. Boucher’s bracelet was popularly known as a “tennis bracelet” due to its resemblance to the strings of a tennis racket.
The design of a tennis bracelet can vary, but typically it is made up of diamond or gemstone clusters, connected to form a flexible setting that wraps around the wrist. The most common tennis bracelets have a single row of diamonds or gemstones, but more intricate designs may employ multiple rows of stones set in a variety of configurations.
In this post, we’ll explore the history and design of tennis bracelets in detail. We’ll discuss the features to look for when shopping for the perfect tennis bracelet, and provide tips for finding the best deal.
Materials
A tennis bracelet is most typically made with diamonds, gold, or silver. The diamonds used in these bracelets can be different sizes and shapes, like princess, baguette, round, marquise and emerald cuts. Diamonds come in a range of clarities, carats, and colors from the palest yellow, brownish, gray and pale pink to vibrant blue, pink and yellow. The gold used can also vary depending on the manufacturer and the style of the bracelet, from 10k to 24k and in colors from white to yellow and rose gold. Silver is also very often used for tennis bracelets.
Apart from precious metals and diamonds, other popular materials include lab-created gems, gemstone-adorned gold, glass, cubic zirconia, and semiprecious stones. Tennis bracelets can also be made in leather, metal links, and beadwork strings.
Styles
Tennis bracelets have become a popular item due to their timeless elegance and delicate allure. These stunning pieces of jewelry come in a variety of styles to match any outfit.
The classic tennis bracelet features a cluster of brilliant-cut diamonds set in either 18-carat yellow or white gold, with the stones placed equally apart along a fine gold chain. This design is simple yet stunning, perfect for those wanting to keep things traditional.
Contemporary designs often feature brighter gold colors, such as rose gold, as well as dual-tone variations. The diamonds may also be set in a more elaborate pattern, such as in a solitaire or pavé setting, for more sparkle and visual appeal.
For those looking for something truly unique, vintage-style tennis bracelets are available. These contain antique diamonds and older settings, such as a caged-bead setting, or a millegrain setting which features a delicate, slightly irregular pattern around the stones.
There are also many variations of gemstone tennis bracelets, featuring colored stones such as sapphires, rubies, and colored diamonds. Gemstone tennis bracelets are the perfect way to add a pop of color to any look.
Care and Maintenance
Regular maintenance of a tennis bracelet is key to ensuring it lasts for many generations to come. Keeping your bracelet clean, properly stored, and repaired as needed are all critical components of its upkeep.
Cleaning is the first step in caring for your tennis bracelet. Use warm, soapy water and a soft cloth to gently wipe away any dirt or debris. Take extra care not to snag the bracelet on rough surfaces and avoid cleaning solutions that contain harsh chemicals. Perform routine cleaning of your bracelet twice a year to maintain its luster and keep it looking its best.
In addition to cleaning your bracelet, proper storage is paramount. Store your bracelet in a soft pouch when not wearing it, avoid exposing it to direct sunlight, and store it away from other jewelry and objects that could scratch its surface.
Finally, be sure to get your bracelet inspected and repaired as needed. If a diamond falls out, for example, get it fixed as soon as possible. Many jewelry stores offer repair services for damaged or worn pieces.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Tennis Bracelets