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What Is a Tennis Bracelet? Why It's Called That and How to Wear One
A tennis bracelet is a flexible line of evenly set diamonds. Learn how it got its name from Chris Evert, how to wear and stack one and how to choose well.
Nov 4, 2026 · 4 min read · House of Diams
A tennis bracelet is a flexible bracelet made of a single, unbroken line of evenly set diamonds, usually with a secure clasp. It got its name from a story about tennis star Chris Evert, whose diamond bracelet is said to have come off during a match at the 1978 US Open.
It's one of the most worn diamond pieces there is, because it suits both a T-shirt and an evening dress. Here's where the name comes from, how to wear one and how to choose well.
What makes a bracelet a tennis bracelet?
A line of stones. One continuous row of diamonds, usually all the same size.
Individual links. Each stone sits in its own small setting, joined to the next, so the bracelet moves like fabric.
A secure clasp. Usually a hidden box clasp, often with a safety catch.
A slim profile. It sits flat against the wrist.
Why is it called a tennis bracelet?
The popular story goes like this. During a match at the US Open, Chris Evert's diamond line bracelet broke and fell onto the court, and play stopped while she looked for it. The moment is widely said to have given the style its name.
The date is often given as 1987, but accounts traced back to Evert's own team place it in 1978, the year the US Open moved to Flushing Meadows. There's also a caveat. Mental Floss reports that the phrase "tennis bracelet" didn't show up in newspapers until the mid-1980s, and there's no record of a rush to buy one right after the match. So the story is real enough, but the name probably caught on more gradually.
Before that, the same design was usually known as a diamond line bracelet or an eternity bracelet.
Tennis bracelet vs other diamond bracelets
Tennis bracelet. A flexible, single line of diamonds. Elegant, and easy to wear every day.
Diamond link bracelet. Larger, shaped links with diamond accents. A stronger, more visible style.
Bangle. A rigid circle or oval. It slides on or opens with a hinge, so it doesn't drape in the same way.
Chain bracelet. A fine chain, perhaps with a single stone or charm. It's lighter and less formal.
How to wear a tennis bracelet
Every day, on its own. Slim tennis bracelets work well at the office and on weekends.
With a watch. Wear it on the same wrist as a slim watch, or on the opposite wrist to avoid scratches.
For evenings. A wider line or larger stones stand out with bare arms.
On either wrist. There's no rule. Most people choose the wrist they don't write with, because it gets less wear.
Tennis bracelet stack: how to stack bracelets
Bracelet stacking is an easy way to build a look over time:
Start with one anchor. A tennis bracelet makes a good center for the stack.
Add contrast. Pair it with a smooth bangle or a simple chain, so the diamonds stand out.
Vary the width. Mix thin and slightly thicker pieces to keep things interesting.
Stop at three or four. After that, a stack starts to tangle and clink.
Mix metals if you like. Repeat each metal at least twice so the combination looks deliberate.
One note of care: diamonds can scratch softer metal over time. Check your stack for wear from time to time, and don't sleep in it.
How to choose a tennis bracelet
Setting. Prongs show more of each diamond and let in more light. Bezels protect the stones and look sleeker.
Diamond size. Smaller stones look delicate. Larger ones have more presence, and cost more.
Diamond quality. Look for good cut and an even match across the stones. Our guide to the 4Cs explains the grades.
Clasp. Choose a box clasp with a safety catch. It's the part that protects everything else.
Length. Most people add about ½ inch to their wrist measurement. Use our bracelet size chart to find yours.
How to tell if a tennis bracelet is real
Ask for paperwork. A grading report or a detailed receipt is the best proof. See our guide to diamond certification.
Check the metal stamp. Look for a marking such as 10K, 14K or 18K, usually on the clasp.
Look at the settings. Stones should be even and secure, with a smooth finish on the back.
Ask a jeweler. If you're still unsure, a professional can test it quickly.
More questions about tennis bracelets
Can you wear a tennis bracelet every day?
Yes, that's what they're made for. Take it off for the gym, swimming and cleaning, and check the clasp from time to time.
How much does a tennis bracelet cost?
It depends mainly on total carat weight, diamond quality and the metal. Lab-grown diamonds generally bring the cost down compared with mined stones of the same size.
Who was the tennis bracelet named after?
The name is linked to Chris Evert, the 18-time Grand Slam champion, whose bracelet came off during a match.
Shop tennis bracelets
See our tennis bracelets, or browse all of our diamond bracelets and the rest of our fine jewelry.
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