A tennis chain, also known as an eternity necklace or diamond line necklace, is a type of necklace typically made of a single row of small, closely set diamonds or gemstones. The stones are usually uniform in size and shape, creating a continuous, shimmering line around the wearer’s neck.
The name “tennis chain” originated from the sport of tennis, where famous tennis player Chris Evert lost her diamond bracelet during a match in the 1987 U.S. Open. She stopped the match to search for the lost diamonds, which led to the term “tennis bracelet.” The concept was later extended to necklaces, resulting in the “tennis chain.”
These necklaces are often crafted in white gold, yellow gold, and they can vary in length from choker-style to longer lengths that drape around the collarbone or further down the chest. Tennis chains are favored for their elegance, versatility, and ability to complement various outfits, making them a popular choice for both casual and formal occasions. They are often worn alone for a sleek, sophisticated look, or layered with other necklaces for a more personalized style statement.