The Jewellery Guide
The heritage of the tennis bracelet
How has the tennis bracelet evolved over the past decades? How was the famous name born? This timeless piece of jewellery takes us on a journey through fashion, sport, and a deep sphere of cultural resonance.
First traces
In a preserved 1930 portrait of British tennis player Joan Cowell O’Meara, we notice a simple diamond-set bracelet, at the time known as an “eternity bracelet.” The 1920s marked the first rise to fame of bracelets that would later be crowned with an iconic name, caused by a memorable incident.
A future, defined by a match
The distinctive name came into being decades later, thanks to the legendary American tennis champion Chris Evert, winner of 18 Grand Slam titles. In 1987, during an intense match, she unexpectedly requested a pause. Reason? The clasp of her diamond bracelet had failed, causing the piece to fall from her hand. In a post-match interview, Chris referred to her jewel as “a tennis bracelet.” In that moment, the famous name was born, writing a new chapter in the history of jewellery.
Éternel Ring
Natural Emerald 3.70 ct
7,381 €
Details
FROM COURTS TO SALONS
The world’s leading gemological institute, GIA, notes that the episode involving Chris Evert caused a significant growth in sales of the tennis bracelet. Nearly four decades later, the tennis bracelet remains one of the most classic and popular jewellery choices.
THE ANATOMY OF TIMELESSNESS
The classic tennis bracelet design consists of a single row of brilliant-cut diamonds set in gold, forming a continuous strand of light encircling the wrist. Contemporary fashion has introduced a new trend: setting tennis bracelets with fancy-colored diamonds and colored gemstones such as rubies, sapphires, and emeralds.
THE PROFOUND SYMBOLISM OF TENNIS BRACELETS
Diamonds or other precious stones, placed in an unbroken line, form a circle that represents eternity and the enduring nature of the most treasured qualities - loyalty and the permanence of significant relationships.
CONTEMPORARY MOTIFS
The cultural context of the tennis bracelet, along with the finesse of its masterful craftsmanship, positioned it as a very popular choice for anniversaries, weddings, and birthday gifts. Its timeless silhouette makes it effortless to transition it from casual to evening style. Its minimalistic design allows it to be worn alone or layered into signature compositions. The tennis bracelet serves as both a timeless classic and a metaphor of what matters most in life.
tennis bracelets
Frequently asked questions
How much does a diamond tennis bracelet cost?
La Marqueuse tennis bracelets with natural diamonds typically range from around 19,000 to 80,000 PLN. The final price depends on the total carat weight, the quality and number of diamonds, gold fineness, construction and the precision of the setting.
Why do tennis bracelets vary so much in price?
Price differences come from the quality of the diamonds, their total weight, gold fineness, construction, clasp and precision of craftsmanship. In a tennis bracelet, the whole set of stones and how well they are matched to one another matters.
What should you look for when buying a tennis bracelet?
When buying a tennis bracelet, it is worth checking the quality and origin of the stones, the consistency of their selection, the stability of the settings, the flexibility of the construction, the security of the clasp and the availability of servicing after purchase. A well-made tennis bracelet should sit softly yet securely on the wrist.
Tennis bracelet with natural or lab-grown diamonds: what is the difference?
Natural and lab-grown diamonds differ mainly in origin, rarity and the long-term character of their value. At La Marqueuse, we work exclusively with natural diamonds, in keeping with our philosophy of jewellery designed to hold its value over time.
Does a diamond tennis bracelet hold its value?
A tennis bracelet with natural diamonds holds its value better than jewellery based on synthetic diamonds. What matters here is the diamonds' parameters, 18k gold fineness, certification, condition and regular servicing.
Should a diamond tennis bracelet come with a certificate?
Yes. La Marqueuse tennis bracelets are certified by a valuer and international HRD diamond expert, with the document confirming the parameters of the stones and gold in line with CIBJO standards.
Who assesses the stones in La Marqueuse tennis bracelets?
The stones in La Marqueuse tennis bracelets are assessed by Urszula Dmowska-Gęsiorek, an international diamond expert holding an HRD diploma. The selection considers not only the stones' parameters but also how they form an even line of light in the finished bracelet.
How does La Marqueuse select diamonds for a tennis bracelet?
At La Marqueuse, we select natural G VS diamonds in full brilliant cuts for our tennis bracelets. The whole set is selected as one: colour, clarity, stone diameter, crown height and cut proportions.
Why does stone selection matter so much in a tennis bracelet?
In a tennis bracelet, every stone is part of a single line. Even a small difference in colour, size, crown height or cut quality can disrupt the rhythm of light across the whole composition.
Is a tennis bracelet suitable for everyday wear?
Yes, provided it has been properly designed and crafted. What matters most is stable settings, a secure clasp, the right length and regular servicing: checking the clasp, settings and stone stability.
What kind of clasp should a secure tennis bracelet have?
A secure tennis bracelet should have a box clasp hidden within the line of stones, together with side safety catches. At La Marqueuse, we use a double figure-eight safety catch on both sides of the clasp.
Why shouldn't a good tennis bracelet catch on fabric?
Catching can result from prongs that sit too high or are poorly shaped, from microscopic play in the setting, or from unfinished links. At La Marqueuse, the setting is done under a microscope, and the finished bracelet undergoes a comfort and safety check.
What is a good length for a tennis bracelet?
A good length means the bracelet sits freely without slipping too far down over the hand and thumb. A bracelet that is too long moves around more and catches on objects more easily, and repeated tugging places strain on the weakest points of the construction over time: the links between segments. This is why pieces worn too loosely are more prone to damage after a few years of wear. At La Marqueuse, the standard tennis bracelet length is 18cm, though every model can be shortened or made to a bespoke length.
What gold colours are La Marqueuse tennis bracelets available in?
La Marqueuse tennis bracelets are made exclusively in 18k gold: yellow, white or rose. The collection includes models set with natural diamonds as well as gemstones such as rubies, sapphires and emeralds.
How do you care for a tennis bracelet to keep its shine?
A tennis bracelet should be cleaned regularly to remove residue from cosmetics and everyday wear. Once a year, it is worth bringing it in for servicing, which includes checking the settings, clasp and stone security.
Can you sleep in a tennis bracelet?
It is best to remove a tennis bracelet before sleeping. During sleep, jewellery can be exposed to pressure, strain or catching on fabric, which affects the settings and clasp over time.
Where are La Marqueuse tennis bracelets made?
La Marqueuse tennis bracelets are made in our Warsaw Atelier. Every model is crafted in 18k gold with natural diamonds or gemstones.
Do La Marqueuse tennis bracelets come with a guarantee?
Yes, La Marqueuse tennis bracelets come with a guarantee and after-sales care, with servicing available at our Atelier.
Does La Marqueuse service tennis bracelets?
Yes, La Marqueuse services tennis bracelets. Servicing includes cleaning, checking the settings, and inspecting the clasp, safety catches and stone stability.
Can a La Marqueuse tennis bracelet be shortened?
Yes, a La Marqueuse tennis bracelet can be shortened. Length adjustment is complimentary and carried out at our Warsaw Atelier.
Can a tennis bracelet be made to a bespoke length?
Yes, a La Marqueuse tennis bracelet can be made to a bespoke length. The standard length is 18cm, but the model can be individually fitted to the wrist.
How quickly can a tennis bracelet be shortened?
Shortening a La Marqueuse tennis bracelet usually takes around 2 to 7 working days. The exact timing depends on the Atelier's current workload.
We can provide expert support and concierge service if requested.
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Concierge
We offer various care, repair, and customization services for our products.
In the spirit of responsibility and transparency, all of our products come from ethical and verified sources.