All Types of Tennis Chains That Exist - Icecartel

Tennis chains have long been a symbol of luxury and style in the jewelry world. Originating from their namesake – the tennis bracelet – these neck adornments come in a multitude of designs, each more captivating than the next. Whether you're a jewelry enthusiast or simply exploring options for your next purchase, dive into the diverse world of tennis chains with us. Discover the subtle differences, design intricacies, and unique characteristics of each type as we navigate through the sparkling realm of these beloved chains.

Classic Tennis Chain

The classic tennis chain is the epitome of timeless elegance in the jewelry realm. Characterized by its continuous row of identical gemstones, typically diamonds, it exudes an understated charm. The stones in a classic tennis chain are often round cut or square diamonds, each meticulously chosen for clarity and brilliance.

Prong Setting: This is the most popular setting for tennis chains. Individual gemstones are held in place by small metal prongs, usually crafted from gold or platinum. The prong setting maximizes the amount of light that hits the diamond, enhancing its sparkle.

Three Prong Setting: In a three-prong setting, each diamond is secured by three prongs, giving a triangular base to the stone. This minimal setting allows more of the diamond to be visible, emphasizing its brilliance.

Four Prong Setting: A more traditional choice, the four-prong setting offers a square base to the diamond, holding it firmly in place. While it covers slightly more of the stone than the three-prong setting, it offers better security.

Bezel Setting: Unlike prong settings, where diamonds are held by small prongs, the bezel setting encircles the diamond or gemstone with a thin metal frame. This setting offers a modern look and added protection to the stone.

Round Bezel Setting: Perfect for round-cut diamonds, the round bezel setting offers a smooth, continuous metal frame around the circumference of the diamond. It's a contemporary setting that highlights the shape of the stone.

Half Bezel Setting: The half-bezel setting is characterized by two half circles of metal that hold the stone from two sides. It offers a mix of the traditional prong and modern bezel settings, allowing more of the diamond's profile to be seen while still offering the protective benefits of a bezel.

Graduated Tennis Chain

The graduated tennis chain introduces a dramatic flair to the standard tennis chain, as it begins with smaller diamonds at each end, culminating in significantly larger diamonds at the center. This design creates a beautiful tapering effect that draws the eye to the middle of the necklace, making it a unique piece to showcase standout diamonds.

A significant advantage of the graduated tennis chain, aside from its aesthetic appeal, is its functional design. Given that the weightier diamonds are centralized, the chain is less likely to flip around the neck, ensuring the necklace remains in its perfect position throughout wear.

Rainbow Tennis Chain

A spectacle in its own right, the rainbow tennis chain is a vibrant deviation from the traditional tennis chain. It’s not only a statement piece but also a testament to the wonders of gemology. Comprising a series of rare and precious stones, such as rubies, emeralds, and sapphires, it's a colorful parade that celebrates the beauty of nature’s treasures. For those seeking the rainbow effect without the hefty price tag of natural gemstones, there are alternatives made with cubic zirconia. These synthetic stones can be manufactured in an array of hues, allowing for a rainbow tennis chain in virtually any color palette.

One undeniable benefit of flaunting a rainbow tennis chain is its uniqueness. Wearing such a piece ensures that you will stand out in a crowd, as these vibrant hues are not commonly seen, making it a surefire conversation starter.

Baguette Tennis Chain

Taking its name from the French word for "stick", the Baguette tennis chain incorporates elongated, rectangular diamonds known as baguettes. These diamonds have a distinct allure due to their unique shape and facets. When set into a chain, the result is a modern, linear look that radiates sophistication. The baguette diamonds are typically housed in channel or bezel settings, allowing for optimal security and display of the stones.

A significant advantage of the Baguette tennis chain is the size of its stones. Larger diamonds have the inherent capability to reflect more light, which means that a Baguette chain will often dazzle brighter than its counterparts, granting its wearer a radiant glow.

Double-Row Tennis Chain

The Double-Row tennis chain is the epitome of luxury and opulence. As the name suggests, it boasts two rows of diamonds, doubling the brilliance and making it an unmissable piece of jewelry. The design typically involves either prong or bezel settings, and due to the sheer number of diamonds, it's understandably priced at roughly twice the rate of a single-row tennis chain. The intricacies of this design involve the top part of the chain connecting the links, while the second row of diamonds elegantly dangles just beneath the first, creating a layered effect.

This design not only amplifies the shimmer of the necklace but also gives it a richer, more textured appearance, making it perfect for those who love to make a grand statement with their jewelry.

Floating Tennis Chain

The Floating Tennis Chain offers a distinct and mesmerizing appeal that sets it apart from its counterparts. Utilizing a delicate 1mm chain in a prong setting, the diamonds appear as though they are gracefully floating on the wearer's skin. The minimalistic design, combined with the prominent sparkle of each individual diamond, creates a celestial effect, reminiscent of stars suspended in the night sky.

It's a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate understated elegance, with each diamond being the focal point.

Choker Tennis Chain

For those who adore jewelry that sits close to the neck and grabs immediate attention, the Choker Tennis Chain is an impeccable choice. Ranging between 14 to 16 inches in length, this style is designed to nestle comfortably around the base of the neck. Its positioning ensures that regardless of the outfit—be it a low-neck top, a turtleneck, or a dress—it remains prominently visible. Essentially, it's a versatile piece that guarantees your jewelry will always be the center of attention, complementing both casual and formal attire seamlessly.

Rectangle Tennis Chain

A sumptuous take on the classic tennis chain design, the Rectangle Tennis Chain incorporates a standout feature—a prominent diamond at its center, surrounded by smaller diamonds at its edges. The intricate design offers a play on dimensions, with the central diamond serving as the piece's majestic focal point. Measuring usually between 10-12mm, these chains are notably thicker, making them a statement piece.

The different-sized diamonds in a single chain imparts a unique aesthetic, adding layers of depth and interest to the piece, ideal for those who wish to wear a blend of traditional and contemporary styles.

Black Tennis Chain

Stepping away from the traditional glimmer of clear diamonds, Black Tennis Chains introduce a contemporary twist to the classic design. These chains feature either black diamonds or moissanite diamonds, giving them a bold and mysterious allure. The deep hue of the stones offers a captivating contrast against the metallic sheen of the chain, making it a versatile accessory that can effortlessly transition from a daytime ensemble to a night out on the town.

It's a perfect choice for those who gravitate towards unique, statement-making pieces that exude modern sophistication.

Blue Tennis Chain

Evoking the serenity of deep oceans and vast skies, the Blue Tennis Chains are a testament to timeless elegance combined with a splash of color. They predominantly feature either shimmering sapphires or blue moissanite diamonds. Each stone captures light in its unique way, projecting shades of azure, indigo, and cerulean. The ethereal blue hue of the stones complements various skin tones and outfits, making it an ideal choice for both daily wear and special occasions, especially in the summer. For those looking to bring a hint of color to their jewelry collection without going overboard, the Blue Tennis Chain offers a sublime balance.

Learn more about the chain types by checking out our ultimate guide to all chain types!

To Wrap This Up

Tennis chains, with their varying designs and materials, provide endless possibilities for enthusiasts and collectors alike. Whether you're drawn to the classic allure of clear diamonds, the bold statement of black stones, or the tranquil beauty of blue sapphires, there's a design tailored for every preference. Investing in a tennis chain is not just about acquiring a piece of jewelry; it's about owning a timeless artifact that resonates with personal style, stories, and memories. As you consider adding one to your collection, remember that each chain, irrespective of its design, is a testament to craftsmanship, luxury, and enduring elegance.