The surprising history of the tennis bracelet
Charles Fish Editorial · Jewellery History
The Surprising History of the Tennis Bracelet
One broken diamond bracelet, one unforgettable moment on court, and a jewellery style whose name would never be the same again.
Why Is It Called a Tennis Bracelet?
If you've heard of a tennis bracelet, but have no idea why or who it got its name from — and what on earth it has to do with tennis — read on.
The story links one of jewellery’s most elegant designs with an unforgettable moment on the court and a sporting icon who helped give the bracelet the name we know today.
In This Story
Table of Contents
The Moment That Changed the Name
The On-Court Jewellery Mishap
It was 1978 at the US Open tennis championship when tennis star Chris Evert’s diamond bracelet suddenly broke and slipped off her wrist mid-match.
She actually asked the umpire to pause the game until it was found.
The cameras were rolling, and the moment made headlines — turning a simple diamond line bracelet into a sporting and style legend.
From Line Bracelet to Icon
A Style Is Born
Originally known as a “line bracelet” since the 1920s, this elegant row of symmetrical diamonds became forever known as the tennis bracelet after that unforgettable moment on court.
Today, it’s a symbol of strength, elegance, and timeless style — whether you’re playing hard or dressing up.
So as the Wimbledon finals approach, keep your eye on the court — and your wrist.
And if you want to serve up some sparkle of your own, explore tennis bracelets and similar treasures in our Diamond & Gemstone Collection.
Watch the Story
The Surprising History of the Tennis Bracelet
See the story behind one of jewellery’s most recognisable bracelet styles.
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Serve Up a Little Sparkle of Your Own
The tennis bracelet may have earned its famous name on court, but its clean line of diamonds has made it a jewellery classic far beyond the world of sport.
Explore tennis bracelets and other sparkling pieces in our Diamond & Gemstone Collection.
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