Experts Agree: This Timeless Jewelry Piece Is the Secret to Future Wealth

I've been on the hunt for the best tennis bracelets for months now, and I've gathered so much information along the way. From figuring out what styles I like to comparing prices and materials, I still have tons of questions for the fine jewelry world—notably what constitutes a good investment. Traditionally, the best tennis bracelets appreciate in value year over year due to rising earth-mined diamond prices, but as lab-grown tennis bracelets enter the market, all of the rules are being rewritten.

While I'm always in favor of buying something that'll make you money in the long-term, you also have to buy something because you actually want it. "Tennis bracelets are the perfect investment piece—their classic design ensures they never go out of style, and the high-quality diamonds or stones used can appreciate over time and can also be reset into so many jewelry pieces," explains Megan Kothari, founder of Aaryah. "The perfect bracelet can elevate any look, whether worn in your everyday stack or on its own for special occasions. For me, no outfit is complete without a diamond element, and a tennis bracelet is a simple way to add that luxury, all while being a piece that pays off in the long run."

The allure of tennis bracelets has never been stronger, and savvy collectors are turning to this piece of diamond jewelry in an effort to buy a piece that'll last for years. It's a combination of elegance, timeless style, and financial wisdom that has me even more excited to find the perfect one for myself. Just like with my hair and my facials, there's only a handful of jewelers whose advice I heed like scripture.

Below, I sat down with some of NYC's finest (no pun intended)—female-focused fine jewelry brands and designers who know a thing or two about shopping for the best tennis bracelets.

How to Buy a Tennis Bracelet

Nothing can match the feel of shopping in person for a tennis bracelet. If you're making this large a purchase, several jewelers agreed it's best to go IRL to examine a piece up close.

"If you're shopping in person, run your finger over the top of the bracelet. The prongs should feel smooth and consistent in height and size," Steph Mazuera, a Brooklyn-based jeweler, explains. "There should be nothing poking out, feeling uneven, or feeling sharp."

How to Make Sure Your Tennis Bracelet Stays Safe

While diamonds are one of the most important parts of buying a tennis bracelet, all the jewelers I spoke to confirmed that safety and functionality are, in fact, important parts of buying a tennis bracelet.

Most tennis bracelets come with locking mechanisms or safety chains to ensure your piece won't come off in the shower, in the ocean, or even with the slight pull of someone's hand. "Your lock should have slight resistance and a satisfying click when closed," Mazuera explains. "Most bracelets have at least one safety bar, a hinged piece that provides additional security to your lock by latching onto its side. You should stay away from thinner clasps, like lobster clasps, especially if you're purchasing a bracelet that's significant in total carat weight."

The actual setting of the bracelet is also important when it comes to safety. "A secure setting, such as four prongs or a bezel, is essential to keep the diamonds in place and ensure the piece's longevity," Kothari adds. "If you're harder on your jewelry, I recommend a bezel setting for extra durability."

How much should a tennis bracelet cost?

Like most things, the cheapest option is not always the best option, according to Mazuera. "There's a lot of shortcuts that can be taken to make a tennis bracelet less expensive, but this can leave you with a lackluster piece that sacrifices quality and durability," she explains. "You really want to make sure that you're buying from someone who has prioritized durability in their design."

There are tons of factors that play into how much a bracelet ends up costing, from carat weight to the type of gold that's used. Even the length of the bracelet can affect pricing, especially if you go with a tennis bracelet that's higher in total carat weight.

What are the best diamonds for a tennis bracelet?

In terms of diamonds, it's best to find stones that aren't too dull or dark. According to designer and jewelry expert Stephanie Gottlieb, a great tennis bracelet should let the diamonds do the talking. Focus on adding a style that has minimal metal, a seamless setting that won't snag, and stones that shine. "For classic styles (one to 10 carats total), G to H color and SI2+ clarity strike the perfect balance of beauty and value," Gottlieb says.

"I'd look for pieces with diamonds estimated in the H+ color category and VS+ clarity range," Mazuera adds. She also recommends making sure that every diamond in the bracelet is well-placed and calibrated. Given that stones are often too small, it's important to talk with your jeweler to make sure that they took the time to measure and set each stone with intention and craftsmanship.

Should I get Silver or Gold for my Tennis Bracelet?

Honestly, you can't go wrong with either choice. Although white gold pieces are traditionally used for the style, giving the illusion that the diamonds are a bit bigger in your tennis bracelet, yellow gold baskets also feel fresh and fun.

Either way, it's best to prioritize getting a tennis bracelet in white gold or yellow gold, rather than a lower quality metal, such as plated brass or coated nickel. "For a piece that stands the test of time, consider mountings in gold, as its inherent durability makes it an excellent choice," explained Lisa Freeman, Vice President of Merchandise for American jewelry brand, Zales. "A carefully crafted tennis bracelet will not only sparkle but also be a lasting investment."

Shop the Best Tennis Bracelets

• Best Overall Tennis Bracelet: Steph Mazuera Billie Tennis Bracelet ($3400)
• Best Lab-Grown Tennis Bracelet: Saks Fifth Avenue Collection 14k White Gold & Lab-Grown Diamond Tennis Bracelet ($1800)
• Best Earth-Mined Tennis Bracelet: Suzanne Kalan 18-Karat Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet ($37855)
• Best Under-$1000 Tennis Bracelet: Ring Concierge Mini Diamond Tennis Bracelet ($998)
• Best Bezel Tennis Bracelet: Brilliant Earth 14k Yellow Gold Pear Lab Diamond Bezel Tennis Bracelet ($3995)
• Best Colored-Stone Tennis Bracelet: Stephanie Gottlieb Fine Green Tsavorite Tennis Bracelet ($3850)
• Best Affordable Non-Diamond Tennis Bracelet: Dorsey James Bezel Lab White Sapphire Gold Rivière Bracelet ($325)