A tennis bracelet is a timeless jewelry staple that adds sparkle and sophistication to any style. While the tennis bracelet wasn’t created specifically for tennis players, it was a particular game that helped rebrand it, and ensure a design secure enough to be worn daily, including being able to withstand active lifestyles. Despite its durability, a tennis bracelet will still require care and maintenance, just like any piece of fine jewelry.
How to Protect Your Tennis Bracelet
Originally developed in the 1920’s and called an “in-line” or “eternity” bracelet, this style of bracelet features a simple design that incorporates a number of identical links that look the same all the way around it. In 1987 during a heated match, tennis player Chrissy Evert was wearing one of those bracelets and during the game, the clasp on hers broke. Evert called for a time out so she could recover her “tennis bracelet” and the term stuck. Today, many people wear tennis bracelets as a daily accessory, and you don’t have to be a tennis player to do so.
A tennis bracelet features a symmetrical pattern of diamonds or gemstones of the same size, shape and color connected by a thin, metal chain. Tennis bracelets are versatile and can be worn as everyday pieces; remember Chris Evert, who made this type of bracelet famous, felt comfortable enough to wear it during a tennis tournament. However, next to rings, tennis bracelets require the most care, maintenance and sometimes repair because they’re worn on your wrist and come in contact with anything you touch.
Your jewelry should be the last thing you put on before you leave for the day, and the first thing you take off when you get home. Avoid using lotions, cosmetics or perfumes after you’ve worn your bracelet, as the chemicals in these products can cause damage, and take your bracelet off before showering or partaking in activities that could potentially damage it. Some people even choose to wear their tennis bracelet on their non-dominant hand as a protective measure.
How to Clean Your Tennis Bracelet
Fine diamond and gemstone jewelry, especially pieces worn regularly need to be cleaned regularly. Luckily it’s very easy to clean and care for your tennis bracelet at home.
Here’s how to do it:
- Step 1: Fill a small bowl with enough lukewarm water to completely cover your bracelet. Add a few drops of mild liquid soap, and stir the cleaning solution until it bubbles.
- Step 2: Gently place your bracelet into the bowl and let it soak for approximately 5-10 minutes.
- Step 3: Using a soft-bristled toothbrush, gently scrub your bracelet, especially the edges of the gemstones.
- Step 4: With the drain plugged, rinse your bracelet under running water to get rid of the soap and dirt.
- Step 5: Use a soft, lint-free cloth and pat dry your tennis bracelet. Avoid using tissues or paper towels, as they can potentially scratch precious metals.
When not being worn, store your tennis bracelet separately from other pieces in a velvet pouch or box to protect against scratches and snags. After each wear, and before putting your tennis bracelet away, always wipe it down with a soft cloth to remove oils that accumulate from contact with your skin while being worn.
If something should happen to your diamond tennis bracelet, be sure to take it to a professional jeweler to get it fixed. They can also help to keep your bracelet fitting perfectly and looking shiny and new. We highly recommend having your fine jewelry cleaned and checked by a professional at least once a year. Your jewelry should also be appropriately appraised and insured to guard against theft, loss, and other catastrophic occurrences that could reduce or eliminate their value.
Whether worn daily or for special occasions, a tennis bracelet can make a wonderful gift, self-gifting included! Give us a call at 303-385-8449 or click here to schedule a custom jewelry appointment.