Diamond bracelet shopping should be a fun process for everyone involved. It can be easy to become overwhelmed with all the options when you step into a shop, from diamond bracelet watches to sparkly gold bands and beyond; how are you supposed to know which one to choose? Lucky for you, our guide will have you on your way to finding the perfect piece in no time.
With a little help from us, you’ll be an expert in shopping for diamond bracelets before you even start to shop! Learn everything there is to know about these sparkling designs to get the most out of your shopping experience.
The History of the Diamond Bracelet
Diamonds have dazzled in jewelry collections since what feels like the dawn of time—but have you ever stopped to wonder where the popular diamond bracelet originated? Though the beautiful gemstone has been used in bracelet cuffs and chains for centuries, it wasn’t until the 1920s, when the Diamond Line Bracelet came to be, that it started trending. This was a gold or platinum chain bracelet with perfectly cut symmetrical diamonds set around the band—and it was an instant hit!
It later evolved into a name most of the world uses today—the tennis bracelet. The exact moment of this change is often debated, but in general, jewelry experts credit this name switch to the moment when Chris Evert’s diamond bracelet was lost on the court during her 1987 US Open match. Of course, the game was stopped until the jewelry was found, and the lingo forever changed when she later named it her “tennis bracelet” in a post-match interview!
Every Woman Needs a Diamond Bracelet
The love of diamond bracelets goes back centuries. Your mother, and her mother, and even her mother likely had a simple gemstone band that she cherished—and so should you! Diamond bracelets are simply timeless. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your heirloom jewelry or buy new, diamonds are always the answer.
Diamond bracelets, like the famous tennis bracelet, are so versatile that we can guarantee there’s a design to fit each person’s style. You can go for a dainty white gold tennis bracelet, a yellow-gold diamond bracelet watch, or even something with a little color—all while benefiting from the elegant and beautiful look of diamonds.
Diamond jewelry is also a great financial investment. High-quality gemstones have a high value per unit weight and almost always appreciate in value over time—even more so when they involve diamonds of exceptional cut or clarity. If you ever need to sell your treasured tennis bracelet, you can at least rest easy knowing it’s still worth something!
How to Select Diamonds for Your Bracelet
The most crucial element of purchasing a diamond bracelet is understanding how to assess your stones. Knowing the ins and outs of the diamonds will help ensure you can find the highest quality band for your style and budget. The first step to knowing what to look for in a diamond is knowing the 4Cs.
What are the 4Cs of Diamonds?
The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) rates the quality of a diamond based on a rating system we refer to as “The 4Cs.” Each “C” will affect the type of diamond bracelet you choose, but the color and cut are most important to its quality.
1. Color
When it comes to valuing a diamond, color is one of the most important factors used to determine the style and hue of your band, and learning how to identify your preferred diamond will help you find your dream tennis bracelet. Diamond color refers not to the presence of color within the gemstone, but the lack of it! This is graded on a color scale of D-Z, ranging from colorless to light, with colorless being the most valuable.
Of course, cut, size, and even metal settings can all affect how the diamond’s color shines through when included in a jewelry piece. Larger diamonds tend to have a more obvious color, so it’s often recommended that you choose a completely colorless stone for larger pieces. Some cuts, like the brilliant cut, can hide imperfect coloring better than others, like the emerald cut. If a diamond isn’t exactly the right color you want it to be, ask your jeweler how it could change.
The Diamond Color Scale
GIA’s diamond color scale has been the industry standard since the 1940s and is a helpful tool to reference as you shop:
Colorless Diamond Grades:
D: the highest grade, completely colorless
E: completely colorless and nearly identical to D (only an expert gemologist can spot this difference)
F: colorless and almost identical to E (but can be set apart by professionals when viewed from a top-down position)
Nearly Colorless Grades:
G: highest grade in the near-colorless range, appears mostly colorless to the naked eye
H: appears most colorless but may have a faint yellow tint in bright lighting, similar to above
I: has a slight tint that’s more apparent against white backgrounds, similar to above
J: includes a slight tint against white or bight backgrounds, similar to above
Faint Color Diamond Grades:
K: carry a tint that can be visible to the naked eye in everyday lighting
L: have a faint tint seen by the human eye
M: include a faint tint that can be seen to the naked eye in normal lighting conditions
Very Light Color Diamonds
Most trustworthy jewelry companies do not carry tennis bracelets with these grades, as they will always have a degree of color. Any gemstone graded N to Z tends to exhibit a yellow, brown, or grey tint that is very noticeable. Though they are less desired by tennis bracelet lovers, they are more affordable, making them perfect for people shopping on a budget!
Choosing a Diamond Color for Your Tennis Bracelet
First, decide what metal you want. If the bracelet has a warm tone like yellow or rose gold, it would be suitable to drop down the scale and choose diamonds with warm tones. However, if you select a platinum or white gold bracelet, yellow diamonds will potentially stand out in a less desirable way.
With a brighter bracelet, diamonds higher up on the scale will be the most flattering choice. Look for colorless or near-colorless stones, such as D-J. Keep in mind that each grade up will increase the price point of your diamond bracelet.
While traditional diamond tennis bracelets are usually set with white diamonds, people love adding colorful, striking gems to their bands. Mixing colorless diamonds with other precious gemstones like ruby or sapphire creates a stunning contrast on the wrist. As you consider the diamond color, you must also consider its clarity.
What About Colored Diamonds?
Diamond color is not to be confused with colored diamonds. Colored diamonds can be naturally occurring or treated in labs and are also known as “fancy” diamonds.
In the wild, small amounts of nitrogen, boron, or other elements change the hue of a diamond during the formation period, resulting in yellow, orange, and even blue diamonds! They can also be treated with heat or other lab processes to change the hue for certain tennis bracelet designs. The rarer the color, the more value the piece holds!
2. Cut
Not to be confused with shape, diamond cut refers to the symmetry, dimensions, and arrangement of the facets and is a term used to describe how the stone reflects light. Cuts are graded through the GIA’s scale between Excellent, Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor. Cut affects the signature sparkle tennis bracelets are known for.
Choosing Between Popular Diamond Cuts
There are a variety of different diamond cuts to choose from when looking for the perfect diamond bracelet. The cut will affect the look of your band and how the diamonds are placed. There are a few types of cuts that can then be shaped into the gemstones you typically see in jewelry:
- Brilliant: round, princess, and oval
- Step: emerald, Asscher, and baguette
- Modified brilliant: pear, cushion, oval, and heart
3. Clarity
When it comes to shopping for tennis bracelets, understanding clarity is key. Clarity refers to how technically flawless the diamond is. This is judged by the number and size of inclusions and blemishes found within and on the surface of the diamond (some of which can be seen by the naked eye and others that require professional tools). Once an official number of issues have been found, it is given a rating. The diamond clarity is then graded on a scale and given a value before it is given to a jeweler to work with.
Diamond Clarity Scale:
- Flawless (FL)
- Internally Flawless (IF)
- Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2)
- Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2)
- Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2)
- Included (I1, I2, and I3)
4. Carat Weight
When people think of karats, most of the time, they’re talking about the karats of gold jewelry. But carats, with a c, are another thing entirely—and it’s incredibly important to the value of diamond bracelets!
Diamond carats are a unit of measurement for the weight of the gemstone, not the size. One carat equals 200 milligrams. When you choose a diamond carat size, remember that while it doesn’t have anything much to do with the minute visual appearance or quality of the stones in your tennis bracelet, it will definitely affect the cut.
Are Diamond Carat and Diamond Size the Same Thing?
No! Diamond carat and size are not the same thing. The carat is a unit that refers to the weight of the stone, a factor that doesn’t necessarily have anything to do with the size of the stone. Pay attention to this as you shop—bigger does not always mean more carats! While it may seem confusing at first, we promise this gets easier to understand after you start shopping for your tennis bracelet.
How to Shop for the Perfect Diamond Bracelet
Whether you want a diamond-encrusted watch band or something simple and timeless like a tennis bracelet, it’s important to remember that shopping is fun! Learning about the 4Cs is a great idea, but once you’re in the store, feel free to follow whatever sparks your interest:
Consider the Right Metal for Your Diamond Bracelet
The most studious steps in choosing your diamond are out of the way—now, it’s all up to your personal style. As previously mentioned, the metal you choose will have a significant effect on your diamond bracelet. It will determine the type of tennis bracelet you purchase and its value.
Keep in mind that metals like yellow gold and silver are softer and might wear down faster than others, but both are great choices if you’re not going to wear them daily. More durable metal options like white gold and platinum might fall slightly higher on the budget, but their long-lasting material will be worth the investment. A bright metal will give you a modern look, while yellow gold is more traditional—there’s truly something for every tennis bracelet aesthetic!
Popular Types of Metal for a Diamond Bracelet:
- Yellow gold
- White gold
- Rose gold
- Silver
- Platinum
Pay Attention to the Diamond Bracelet’s Flexibility and Durability
If you plan on wearing your diamond bracelet for a lifetime, it’s vital to choose a high-quality product. The durability and flexibility are essential factors when selecting a staple tennis bracelet for your jewelry collection, especially if you want your jewelry to last forever. As you shop, understand that low-quality bracelets can easily get torn apart or tangled. In the long run, it’s worth spending extra cash for a tennis bracelet that will last years and years of wear.
How to Test the Flexibility of a Diamond Bracelet
You can quickly test the flexibility of a bracelet by holding it open and upside down. Make sure that the bracelet remains standing and doesn’t collapse into itself. When you shop at Fink’s, you can guarantee that all our products are made with high-quality assurance and care.
Finding the Best Diamond Bracelet Size
Your diamond bracelet wristwatch or tennis bracelet should always fit your wrist like a glove. It shouldn’t be too loose or tight, so the line of diamonds looks graceful and endless across your skin. If you can’t make it to the jeweler for a measurement, measure your wrist size at home.
Select a bracelet that feels the most comfortable to you and complements the wrist size. Oversized and extra-bling diamond bracelets tend to make the wrist appear a bit scrawny rather than dainty. If you’re going for a diamond bracelet watch, make sure the clasp is secure and tight but not suffocating.
How to Easily Find Your Bracelet Measurement
To find your own bracelet measurement, simply wrap a flexible tape measurer around the wrist and add about half an inch to ensure a snug but not constricting fit. If you don’t have access to a tape measure, use a piece of string and set it against a normal ruler. If you’re slightly off, don’t worry—the length of a tennis bracelet or diamond bracelet watch is easy to adjust in-store, as a jeweler can add or remove a link to get a perfect size.
Look at Different Types of Diamond Bracelet Clasps
The clasp on your diamond tennis bracelet is an easy element to overlook, but the one you choose must be strong. Having a sturdy clasp will reduce the risk of it getting lost or snagging on bulky sweaters and fuzzy blankets. Finding the most comfortable and high-quality clasp for your bracelet is the key to keeping it in your collection forever.
Pro tip: if you are able to visit us in-store, it’s best to consult a professional about which clasp to choose for your tennis bracelet. Experienced jewelers will be able to quickly tell the difference between a perfectly fitting, high-quality clip as opposed to one that might soon fall apart. Once you pick the right clasp, you can wear your diamond bracelet or diamond bracelet watch anywhere.
Common Types of Clasps:
- Hooks
- Push
- Toggles
- Box
- Magnetic
- Fishhook
- S-hook
- Lobster-claw
How to Style a Diamond Bracelet
Diamond chain bracelets are one of the most classic staple pieces everyone should have in their jewelry box. This accessory will make any outfit more elegant, from a basic t-shirt and jeans to your favorite little black dress. The simple yet striking design makes diamond bracelets perfect for pairing with other jewelry, like your diamond engagement ring.
Grab your favorite diamond stud earrings to pair with your band or diamond bracelet watch. A simple chain or diamond necklace would also be perfect to pair with the piece. If you want to wear a diamond band on its own, it will still make a sophisticated and chic statement.
If you decide to pair a diamond bracelet with other jewelry, make sure you don’t wear it with plastic or casual jewelry. Everyone is entitled to their own unique style, but maybe consider leaving the Apple Watch or Fitbit at home next time you wear your valuable tennis bracelet. Keep in mind that you can also wear different types of diamond bracelets depending on the occasion.
When Can You Wear Diamond Bracelets?
We mean it when we say that diamond bracelets can be worn for essentially any occasion. Why would you buy a beautiful tennis bracelet only to keep it locked away in your jewelry box when you could wear it wherever and whenever you like?
Depending on the size of the design, most are suitable for everyday wear, especially something minimal like a small tennis bracelet or chain. Larger statement pieces can be reserved for more formal occasions, such as graduations, holidays, and anniversaries, but we recommend you get as much use out of them as you’re comfortable with!
Shop a Few of Our Favorite Types of Diamond Bracelets
If you’re looking for inspiration for your big diamond bracelet purchase, look no further! We’ve gathered a few of our best-selling (and personal favorite) styles, from traditional tennis bracelets to modern watches and beyond. Take a look and find one that speaks to you:
Tell the Time with a Stunning Diamond Bracelet Watch
Everyone needs a watch, so why not add some sparkle and shine to yours? Wearing a watch with diamonds is a classic and elegant way to express your style every day. Our designer women’s watches are made with functionality and versatility in mind so that you can wear them anywhere.
Wearing a watch is the perfect way to accessorize in a more professional setting. You might not want to wear your ruby red band to a work meeting, but a diamond watch presents your style without being too over-the-top.
Fink’s has a stunning collection of diamond bracelet watches. This colorful and classic blue rubber strap diamond watch from Breitling is a newer customer favorite. For a more subdued sparkle, check out the grey TAG Heuer watch with diamonds.
Go the Traditional Route with A Staple Tennis Bracelet
Tennis bracelets are a staple that can work in any wardrobe. They tend to be thin and subtle enough to be worn in your day-to-day life. The continuous line of diamonds all the way around the band provides the signature sparkle these glittering gemstones are known for, helping to elevate any outfit.
Both the white gold tennis bracelet and yellow gold round tennis bracelet from our Sabel Collection would make a precious gift to yourself or any of the women in your life. They’re both timeless pieces, and if you take good care of them, they will remain in your jewelry collection for the rest of your life. And believe us—tennis bracelets aren’t going out of fashion any time soon!
Glitter with a More Colorful Diamond Bracelet
A classic tennis bracelet is perfect for everyday wear, but everyone needs some color in their jewelry box. Diamond bracelets with gems and bright stones make beautiful statement pieces. The combination of elegant diamonds and colorful gemstones creates a beautiful contrast on the wrist.
Assess your wardrobe and the rest of your jewelry collection before making a purchase. Choose a gemstone (or multiple!) that will complement your style and stand out on your wrist. This ruby and diamond bracelet from our Sabel Collection is an attractive choice if you’re a fan of the color red. You could even go for the whole rainbow with this emerald cut multi-colored sapphire and diamond bracelet!
Stay Grounded with a Subtle Cord Diamond Bracelet
If you don’t want the all-around glitter of a tennis bracelet, opt for something a little more subdued—like a cord bracelet! These designs use a stretchy cord resembling a ponytail holder in replacement of a metal band. The diamond acts like more of a single charm, giving you a simple shine and perfect everyday style. Our favorite is the Roberto Coin diamond flower cord bracelet, but there are plenty to choose from!
Dare to Be Bold with a Larger Statement Diamond Bracelet
If you want to stand out in a crowd, consider choosing a statement diamond bracelet. This can be achieved while still keeping a neutral color palette as long as you select larger diamonds or ones with a unique cut, like a square or teardrop. Consider something chunky and modern like a yellow gold link bracelet with a diamond station or a daring Love in Verona flower diamond cuff by Roberto Coin and draw attention with every flick of your wrist.
Gifting Diamond Bracelets
Nothing says “I love that you’re in my life” quite like the gift of a diamond bracelet. Whether you’re buying presents for your nearest and dearest or you’re deciding to treat yourself to something special, something as sweet as a petite tennis bracelet or as large as a multi-stone bangle is the perfect way to show how much you care. If you’re shopping for someone else, make sure you understand their general style, as well as bracelet size, so they can enjoy wearing it each day.
What Anniversary is Diamonds?
Both your 60th and 75th wedding anniversaries are considered the perfect time to surprise your sweetheart with a stylish diamond bracelet! Something classic, like a tennis bracelet or Roberto Coin’s romantic small heart diamond medallion bracelet, is the perfect way to let your loved one know just how much you appreciate their love in your life.
How to Care for Your Diamond Bracelet
Once you’ve purchased a precious diamond bracelet, it’s crucial to take good care of it. Get your diamond tennis bracelets and watches cleaned and touch them up at home between professional treatments. As previously mentioned, with proper care, these precious pieces could last a lifetime in your jewelry collection.
It’s best to have your piece professionally serviced once every few years, just like the rest of your fine jewelry. Professional cleanings will be an ongoing cost, but they’re well worth the effort to ensure your diamond bracelet remains solid and clean. You may also be able to get a jewelry insurance policy on your piece, guaranteeing that you can have it professionally serviced and protect your investment in the future if anything goes wrong.
Cleaning Your Diamond Bracelet at Home
Cleaning your diamond bracelet regularly at home is the best way to keep it looking shiny and beautiful. You will only need to dust the band with a simple cloth to wipe away debris in some cases. If your piece is a bit dirtier, use a jewelry-safe soap and warm water and gently rub clean with a soft cloth.
It’s best to avoid using an ultrasonic cleaner with intense vibrations. Other products you should always avoid when it comes to cleaning jewelry are harsh detergents and soaps. They may cause the diamonds to fall out of their setting.
How to Clean a Diamond Watch
The at-home cleaning process is a bit different for diamond bracelet watches. First, set up two bowls: one with clean water and one with soapy water. Carefully dip the strap of your watch into soapy water for ten to twenty seconds. Once you’ve submerged the diamond bracelet watch strap in the water, gently scrub it with a clean, soft cloth. Then, dip in the clean water to rinse it off. Don’t forget to pat it dry once the cleaning process is over.
How to Store Your Diamond Tennis Bracelet
When it comes to diamond jewelry, the ways you store it are key. The best way to store any piece of jewelry is by keeping the box it came in. However, if you’re an avid accessory collector, keeping many boxes is likely an inconvenience. The critical thing to keep in mind when storing a band or diamond bracelet watch is that it should sit apart from your other jewelry.
It might be tempting to toss your bracelet in a pile of jewelry on your nightstand, but this is an easy way to get your pieces all tangled up. Consider purchasing a jewelry box or storage case with several compartments. Having proper jewelry storage will keep your collection organized so you never misplace your favorite accessories again.
What Do You Do if Your Diamond Bracelet Breaks?
If, god forbid, your favorite diamond bracelet breaks, there’s no need to cry! Whether a stone has fallen out of the setting, the metal tarnished, or the clasp broke, a trustworthy jewelry repair service can fix just about anything. Take all of the pieces into your local shop and inquire about what can be done, as well as the costs.
If something can’t be revamped, you could always create a new design using the same gemstones. Stop in and check out our expert jewelry custom design services! We’re happy to give your family gemstones or cherished tennis bracelet a new, one-of-a-kind life—just ask.
Now that you have the complete guide to all things diamond bracelets, finding a stunning piece will be a simple task. Hopefully, you identified your favorite styles and can head right to Fink’s to shop. We carry bracelets for all budgets, and we have confidence that you’ll find a breathtaking band or diamond bracelet watch in no time.
