Written by Julie de Los Rios - Friday, June 9, 2023
Born in the 1920s, but established as a style icon in 1978 on the wrist of champion Chris Evert, the
After Opening Week and the first qualifying rounds on 22nd May, the tension will keep building up until the final week, from 5th to 11th June... The
One of history's greatest competitors is Chris Evert, a professional tennis player who racked up 18 Grand Slam titles in the 1970s. In addition to her implacable backhand, the American player stands out for her elegance... from head to toe! Whether she’s rocking a perfect blow-dry or a thick fringe and a ponytail tied with a delicate ribbon, she’s never without her bracelet! On her wrist, a supple line of natural diamonds emphasises the graceful clasp, accompanying her everywhere, even on the tennis court, just like a lucky charm.
So much so that in 1978, this piece of jewellery nicknamed "tennis bracelet" made history during a first-round match at the US Open. Chris Evert noticed that her bracelet was missing and asked the referee to stop the match. The match was briefly suspended, just long enough for the tennis player to pick up her precious bracelet. Only then did the match resume.
Today, the
The organisation is also reminding us that many of the world's tennis stars now wear natural diamond bracelets on the court. Leading the way is Serena Williams, who even launched her first jewellery line in 2019 with diamond and jewellery manufacturer
But let's get back to our natural diamond tennis bracelet. Made famous in 1978 by Chris Evert, its design dates back to the 1920s. As a delicate row of identically cut diamonds attached to one other, this jewel, also known as eternity or “diamond line” bracelet, has always seduced with its minimalism and timeless elegance.
In the 1920s, at the height of the Art Deco movement, tennis bracelets were adorned with closely aligned square diamonds. They were nicknamed "service stripes", in reference to the stripes worn in the military. At the time, they were gifted on wedding anniversaries, as light-hearted representations of successful "tours of duty". Glamorous Hollywood stars and wealthy women snapped them up, often layering them, combining lines of natural diamonds and sparkly Art Deco bracelets.
In the 1970s, diamond tennis bracelets took on a new aura, carrying a different message. Fashion was less sophisticated. Women became freer, wearing wrap dresses, trouser suits and, of course, jeans. Bracelets served as an understated touch of luxury, enhancing a casual chic figure. Chris Evert took this concept to the extreme by boldly combining it with her sportswear on the tennis court.
Now, 45 years later, it's a must-have for daily wear. It is timeless, classic, casual and chic – all at once. It comes in an infinite number of variations at all price points. And there are even ultra-precious versions paved with exceptional natural diamonds. Whether it's an eternity or tennis bracelet, it has also become an heirloom, an authentic piece of luxury that has been passed down through generations, from mother to daughter... without ever going out of fashion!
For a woman, being gifted a diamond tennis bracelet is always a treat! Here’s our selection to help you out, but don’t forget to keep an eye on auctions as you may find some bargains! Always remember to compare what is comparable: weight of gold, carats and diamond quality! If you're not sure, check out