Vintage Sterling Silver and Cubic Zirconia Tennis Bracelet
Jewelry (Bracelet) · Unknown mass-market manufacturer; typical of retail brands like Ross-Simons, Zales, or Macy's house brands. Characterized by high-volume production with standard jewelry-making techniques.
Pattern: Classic Line or 'Tennis' style; non-specific pattern in continuous production since the late 1970s and early 1980s.
Type
Jewelry (Bracelet)
Maker
Unknown mass-market manufacturer; typical of retail brands like Ross-Simons, Zales, or Macy's house brands. Characterized by high-volume production with standard jewelry-making techniques.
Material
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with rhodium or nickel plating to prevent tarnish. Stone accents are likely Cubic Zirconia (CZ) or laboratory-simulated diamonds set in four-prong baskets.
Dimensions
Standard length of 7 to 7.5 inches; width approximately 3-5mm. Estimated silver weight: 10-15 grams.
Description
This piece is a classic sterling silver tennis bracelet, designed for everyday elegance. It features a continuous row of shimmering baguette or princess-cut simulated stones, each held securely in a tiered basket setting. The articulated design remains fluid on the wrist, mimicking the movement of high-end diamond finery at an accessible price point.
Key Features
Articulated 'flexible line' construction, box clasp with safety catch, and the use of sterling silver as a precious metal alternative to white gold or platinum.
Material & Composition
Sterling Silver (.925 purity) with rhodium or nickel plating to prevent tarnish. Stone accents are likely Cubic Zirconia (CZ) or laboratory-simulated diamonds set in four-prong baskets.
Finish & Decoration
Bright mirror polish with rhodium plating; features a repeating linear sequence of rectangular or square-cut simulated stones. Style is Modern/Contemporary with a focus on brilliance and uniformity.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped '925' or 'Sterling' on the clasp or the safety catch. May include a small maker's mark (e.g., 'TH', 'CN', or 'ITALY') if of European or Asian manufacture.
Construction Details
Machine-cast articulated links joined by pinned pivots to allow flexibility. Individual stone settings are mass-cast and then mechanically or hand-set with prongs.
Functional Features
Box clasp with a tongue-and-groove locking mechanism; includes a single or double fold-over safety wire (figure-eight safety) for added security against loss.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A (Jewelry item); the clasp acts as the primary manual interface, featuring a small thumb-tab for releasing the tension of the internal spring.
Craftsmanship Details
Standard commercial craftsmanship; links are uniform and the articulation is smooth. Prongs are machine-finished, providing a clean but non-artisanal appearance.
Authentication Indicators
The presence of a '925' stamp on the clasp and the use of a traditional jeweler's box clasp rather than a lobster claw indicate an intended 'fine jewelry' look.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in Thailand, China, or Italy. These regions dominate the global market for high-volume sterling silver stone-set jewelry.
Era & Period
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (c. 1980 - present). The 'Tennis Bracelet' gained its name and iconic status following Chris Evert's 1987 U.S. Open incident.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-2010. The design and safety clasp style are consistent with late 20th-century jewelry production standards.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury; 'Tennis' style bracelets moved from the elite diamond-and-platinum circles into mainstream fashion via the use of sterling silver and simulated stones.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. The photo shows consistent alignment of links. Minor surface scratches on the clasp are likely present. Rhodium plating appears intact with no significant yellowing of the silver beneath.
Value Estimate
$40 - $120. Value is determined primarily by the weight of the silver and the brand name; retail prices for new sterling/CZ bracelets fall in this range.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water and a soft toothbrush. Avoid 'silver dips' which can damage the rhodium plating or dull the stones. Store in a soft pouch to prevent prongs from snagging on other jewelry.
Similar Pieces
Tiffany & Co. Victoria Line Bracelet (higher end, platinum/diamonds), Swarovski Matrix Tennis Bracelet (costume metal), and various 'diamonique' pieces from QVC/Home Shopping networks.
Interesting Facts
The name 'Tennis Bracelet' was coined after professional player Chris Evert lost her diamond line bracelet during a match and requested play be stopped until it was found.