Although their name nods to sports, the best tennis bracelets are worn far beyond the court. In fact, they’ve crossed over into classics territory, taking their spot as an essential in the quiet-luxury capsule wardrobe. “The tennis bracelet is the perfect example of a piece that’s effortlessly classic yet modern,” says Xenia Lally, fashion director at jewelry brand Mejuri. “Its clean design works with everything, from a T-shirt and jeans to special-occasion eveningwear, making it a versatile staple that truly transcends trends.”
The tennis bracelet has been considered fine jewelry long before it was worn by world champion tennis player Chris Evert at the US Open in 1978; her bracelet of choice was constructed of diamonds and gold. But a whole new class of more affordable styles has cropped up over the last few years, thanks in part to the rise of lab-grown gemstones. Styled as part of a bracelet stack or worn solo, this design, also known as a line bracelet, has the sort of long-term appeal that justifies a higher cost per wear.
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When you’re deciding exactly how much you want to invest, consider the craftsmanship along with the durability of the piece you’re looking at. Common metals include white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and sterling silver. Gold plating (a thin layer over brass, copper, or another metal) or vermeil (a slightly thicker layer over sterling silver) is a more affordable choice, but these coatings may wear off over time.
Similarly, diamonds (including lab-grown ones) are particularly hard stones, so while they’re more expensive, they’re also less prone to cracking in the long term. While they’re slightly less hardy, cheaper stones like moissanite and sapphire mimic the look of diamonds and are durable enough for everyday wear. You’ll also want to make sure that your tennis bracelet is designed with a double-lock clasp to ensure it stays in place—especially if you’re wearing it on the court, as Evert was.
To help you get a handle on the wide range of options currently available, we rounded up a few of our favorites, from under-$100 options from affordable brands to true splurges that actually justify their prices. No matter which you choose, the style’s high-quality design and versatility are what will ultimately make it a must-have in your jewelry collection—or that of a loved one, since diamond jewelry also makes a great gift for women. (And if it fits your personal style, consider finishing off the set with a tennis necklace.)
Best tennis bracelets under $100
You can find some pretty impressive options in the under-$100 range, including many worthwhile bracelets under $50. (Just peep that luxe-looking Pavoi bangle!) Each of these picks employs cubic zirconia, a man-made stone that looks similar to diamonds. While it’s more prone to scratches, cracks, and clouding over the years, it’s still strong enough for everyday wear and makes for a great starter tennis bracelet. Experiment with these to see if you like the look, then consider investing down the line.
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