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The tennis bracelet is a rather weird name for an elegant piece of jewelry. Yes, it is named after the game of tennis. Here's what happened: At the 1987 U.S. Open, Chris Evert stopped her match to look for the in-line diamond bracelet she always wore on the court. Millions of people in the stands and on television watched this unfold live and the fascination with it grew. Since then, the in-line bracelet's name changed and became known as the tennis bracelet. Different styles The traditional version is a row of diamonds, but it is not limited to that. Alternating diamonds and other gemstones are also a popular style, especially for a birthstone gift. A sapphire tennis band will make her the envy of all the other September babies. The traditional setting is the four-pronged round stone bracelet. This style also commonly incorporates metal design in between the diamond, often in the shape of an S or an X. Cleaning and maintenance If the bracelet is made up of just diamonds, cleaning is a snap. Diamonds are the hardest gemstone with a rank of 10 on the Mohs scale, so it can be soaked in cleaner, steamed and agitated in an ultrasonic machine. A toothbrush can also be used to clean under the setting. However, if it is made up of diamonds and some other gemstone, the hardness of that stone must be taken into account. Unless it is an opal or pearl, a soak in warm water with a mild soap should be sufficient. But, for softer stones like those, a wipe down with a damp cloth is the best way to clean them. To avoid Chris Evert's circumstance, have a safety chain added to the bracelet before it leaves the store. Also, make sure the clasp is a good one and that it is tight. The most common clasp for a diamond tennis bracelet is a box clasp which is virtually hidden so it doesn't affect the beauty of the diamonds. Another safety measure to protect what can be a very expensive investment as well as a sentimental gift. The prong tips should be checked regularly for wear and should be re-tipped periodically. The prongs themselves checked for tightness. For bezel settings, make sure the stone does not become loose. It is more difficult to detect a setting problem since there are no prongs to show damage. Have the piece appraised by a GIA certified appraiser so that it can be insured. Typically homeowner's policies have a rider for personal property or a specific one can be taken out on jewelry. Again, a diamond tennis bracelet can be very expensive and insurance is a great precaution against theft or loss. While it can't bring back the wonderful memories of the day you got it, new ones can be made with the replacement piece. Either way, at least thousands of dollars did not just go up in smoke. Many women aspire to own a diamond tennis bracelet and receiving one is like winning the lottery. It's a moment she will remember forever, which is how long it lasts-diamonds are forever. Show your love, support and appreciation for the sportswoman in your life with the gift of a beautiful tennis bracelet, and she'll think of you every time she wins a game. For a selection of unique bracelets set with diamonds or birthstones, visit the jewelry showcase at www.gemaffair.com.
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