A tennis necklace is a single, unbroken line of diamonds set in a flexible chain. It started as a bracelet style and moved to the neck, where its clean line suits both everyday wear and formal evenings. Choosing one comes down to four decisions: length, stone size, setting and metal.
Choose your length
- 16 inches (choker length): sits at the base of the neck. Bold and best on its own.
- 18 inches: the most common length. It rests just below the collarbone and works with most necklines.
- 20 inches: falls lower on the chest and suits higher necklines and layering.
If you are unsure, start with 18 inches. Our full length chart is in the diamond necklace guide.
Pick the stone size and shape
The width of the line changes the character of the piece. Smaller stones give a delicate, fine look that layers easily. Larger stones read as a statement. Round brilliants are the classic choice; emerald, oval and graduated designs, where stones grow toward the centre, add a more distinctive line. Browse the range in our tennis necklace collection.
Settings: what holds the stones
Tennis necklaces are usually set in four-prong or bezel-style settings that keep each stone secure while leaving as much of the diamond visible as possible. Look for even spacing, smooth links and a secure clasp with a safety catch.
Choose the metal
Yellow, white and rose gold are the common choices. White gold gives a cool, icy look; yellow gold adds warmth; rose gold is softer. For help comparing metals, read the metal guide, which applies to necklaces as well as rings.
How to wear it
- On its own, with a plain neckline, for the cleanest effect.
- Layered with a slim pendant at a different length.
- Dressed down over a knit or a shirt collar for everyday wear.
Care
Wipe with a soft cloth after wearing. Wash gently in warm water with a drop of mild dish soap and a soft brush, rinse and dry. Store flat or hung so the chain does not tangle, and have the clasp and settings checked once a year. See how to clean lab-grown diamond jewelry for the step-by-step method.
Why lab-grown?
Lab-grown diamonds are real diamonds with the same hardness and brilliance as mined ones, which matters in a piece with many stones. For a full explanation, see whether lab-grown diamonds hold their value.
Frequently asked questions
What length tennis necklace should I buy?
18 inches suits most people. Choose 16 inches for a close, choker-style fit or 20 inches if you prefer a lower drop or want to layer.
Can I wear a tennis necklace every day?
Yes. Its low, smooth profile makes it comfortable for daily wear. Remove it for swimming, exercise and cleaning products, and have the clasp checked once a year.
What is the difference between a tennis necklace and a riviere necklace?
The terms overlap. Both are continuous lines of stones. A riviere often refers to a graduated line, with larger stones at the centre, while a tennis necklace usually has stones of the same size throughout.
Are tennis necklaces suitable for sensitive skin?
Gold is generally well tolerated. If you know you react to certain metals, ask us about the alloy before ordering.
Can you make a tennis necklace in a custom length?
Yes. Contact us through our custom design page and we will quote a length, stone size and metal to your request.
