Tennis Bracelet Guide: How to Choose a Diamond Tennis Bracelet in Melbourne

The diamond tennis bracelet. A classic icon for every jewellery collection. A single line of brilliance worn on the wrist that instantly elevates. The diamond tennis bracelet is the piece fit for every occasion 

What is a tennis bracelet? 

A tennis bracelet is a flexible diamond bracelet set with one continuous row of uniform and evenly sized diamonds, most often round brilliant cuts. Each diamond is individually set with such precision that a tennis bracelet sits smoothly and flexibly around the wrist.

The name has a charming origin. In 1978, tennis champion Chris Evert’s diamond line bracelet came undone during a match at the US Open, and she asked for play to be paused while she found it. The media began calling the style a “tennis bracelet”, and the name stuck ever since.

Today the design has expanded well beyond classic round brilliant cut white diamonds. You can find tennis bracelets in fancy diamond shapes such as oval and marquise, mixed shapes and a beautiful variety of designs and settings. 

What diamond shape should you choose?

The shape of the diamonds within the tennis bracelet defines the personality and style of the piece. 

• Round cut tennis bracelet. The classic and most timeless tennis bracelet design. Choose it for timeless elegance with ultimate sparkle.

• Oval cut tennis bracelet: Elongated and distinctly modern, oval diamonds create a softly sculptural line that flatters the wrist.

• Emerald cut tennis bracelet: Rectangular step cuts have a sleek, architectural, refined quality for an understated elegance. 

• Marquise cut tennis bracelet: Marquise cuts have a beautiful elongated and vintage charm for a unique tennis bracelet style. 

• Mixed cuts tennis bracelet: For a beautiful feminine and contemporary design adding visual interest. 

Natural or lab-grown diamonds?

Deciding between natural or lab grown diamonds for your tennis bracelet is a deeply personal choice based on your preferences. Lab-grown diamonds often allow for a higher total carat weight at a more affordable budget. Natural diamonds offer rarity and provenance, qualities that many customers value within an heirloom piece.

One of the first questions to answer is whether you would like natural or lab-grown diamonds. Both are real diamonds with the same chemical structure and physical properties, and both can be certified.

Choosing your Tennis Bracelet total carat weight

Tennis bracelets are described by their total carat weight, which is the combined weight of all the diamonds within the entire bracelet. When choosing the size it depends on the overall look and style you are after. 

• Delicate (2 carats): Fine, subtle sparkle that is dainty and delicate and understated brilliance, easy to layer. 

• Classic (around 3 to 5 carats): The most popular range. A confident, noticeable line of diamonds that feels elegant.

• Statement (6 carats and above): Larger diamonds with bold presence, ideal for special occasions or for those who love high jewellery.

Keep in mind that the weight of each individual stone is much smaller than the total. For example, A classic 5 carat bracelet featuring approximately 50 small diamonds, could mean each individual diamond is approximately 0.1cts. Remember it is about the overall impression on the wrist as much as the number.

Diamond Calibration: what really matters

With Diamond tennis bracelets, uniformity is of utmost importance. Because the diamonds sit side by side, any noticeable difference in size, cut or colour from one stone to the next will show quite obviously when set within the piece.

A well-made bracelet uses carefully calibrated diamonds that are individually matched, providing a beautifully harmonious line of brilliance, where the line of diamonds looks uniform, bright and brilliant from clasp to clasp.

Settings: how the diamonds are held

The setting changes both the look and the feel of the bracelet.

• Four-claw settings are the classic tennis bracelet choice. Each diamond is lifted slightly, letting light enter from all sides for maximum brilliance.

• Illusion settings surround each diamond in a beautiful frame that makes them appear larger and the bracelet more continuous.

• Bezel settings wrap each stone in a fine border of precious metal. They are sleek, secure and a beautifully modern choice. 

Choosing the metal

The metal frames your diamonds and affects the overall look:

• White gold gives a cool, bright effect that beautifully enhances and compliments colourless diamonds

• Yellow gold is warm and timeless, and has become increasingly popular for modern, stackable looks.

• Rose gold is soft and romantic, and a more unique choice. 

Getting the length right

A tennis bracelet should sit comfortably on the wrist with a little room to move, without sliding down the arm or over the hand. As a general guide, measure your wrist and add around 1 to 1.5 centimetres for a perfect fit. 

At JANAI, when purchasing your tennis bracelet our team will tailor your piece to the ideal length for you. 

Clasp and security

A tennis bracelet is worn daily and moves constantly, it is essential to choose a secure clasp. Look for a clasp with a secure safety catch which helps keep the bracelet fastened. It is also worth having the claws and clasp checked regularly to ensure the longevity of your piece. 

Tennis bracelets at Janai Melbourne

At Janai, we offer an extensive collection of tennis bracelets for you to discover in-store. Choose from our selection of diamond shapes, total carat weights, setting styles and precious metals. Our team can assist you through a private consultation, so you can view and try diamond tennis bracelets in person and decide with confidence.

Discover your tennis bracelet in Melbourne

Whether you are celebrating a milestone or choosing a gift that will be treasured for years, we would love to help you find a tennis bracelet that is entirely yours. Book a private consultation at our Collins Street boutique and discover our extensive range of tennis bracelets in-store.