How the Tennis Bracelet Became a Timeless Fashion Piece

The ‘tennis bracelet’ has become a timeless staple in classic jewelry, often spotted on the wrists of athletes like Maria Sharapova and Serena Williams at Centre Court. But its journey from the world of sports to fashion is as intriguing as the piece itself.

The story goes way back, long before it got its sporty nickname. Originally called eternity bracelets, these pieces date back to the 1920s and were made as continuous circles of precious stones, symbolising everlasting love. Jewellers would carefully arrange diamonds or other gemstones in a single line, creating a loop that sparkled around the wrist. Today’s tennis bracelets still feature that symmetrical design, with pavé diamonds or other gems set along a flexible chain of precious metal, but they’ve evolved in style and meaning over the years.

Eternity bracelets were a hit among the wealthy and elite for several decades, but they really gained fame in the late 20th century, thanks to 18-time Grand Slam champion Chris Evert. Legend has it that during an intense match at the 1978 US Open, her diamond bracelet broke and slipped off her wrist. In a dramatic moment, she asked the officials to pause the game so she could find her cherished bracelet.

This incident naturally grabbed a lot of media attention, and jewellers quickly seized the chance to rebrand these bracelets as tennis bracelets. While that’s an interesting story and a fun fact to share, you might be wondering what actually defines a ‘tennis bracelet’. Most tennis bracelets are crafted from gold—whether white, yellow or rose—or platinum, chosen for their durability and shine. 

A sturdy clasp is crucial to keep the bracelet secure and add an extra layer of protection. Moving on to the stones, they are typically round-cut, but nowadays, you can find variations with different cuts and a mix of colorful gemstones, giving a fresh twist to the classic diamond-only look.

The 70s turned out to be the perfect time for this jewellery to make a comeback. It was the disco era, and people began to dress more casually, mixing denim with diamonds. At the same time, there was a rising demand for understated luxury, which high-end jewellers eagerly embraced.

The bracelet incident wasn’t the first time three-time Wimbledon champion Chris Evert donned this kind of jewelry. She was actually known for accessorizing her tennis outfits with delicate pieces instead of using a typical towelling wristband.

After the famous incident in the 70s, tennis bracelets quickly became a must-have accessory. Their popularity skyrocketed in the 80s and 90s, combining luxury with an active, modern lifestyle. You’d often see celebrities and fashion icons wearing tennis bracelets, which helped cement their status as a trendy favourite.