The 15 Best Tennis Necklaces of 2024
The slim profile and subtle sparkle of a tennis necklace makes them a wonderful minimalist accessory. While their understated look may give the notion that tennis necklaces are simple pieces to shop for, different metals, stones, and designs can lead to a wide variety of options at different price points.
“The biggest factors that determine the price are the metal and the stone size, type and quality,” says jewelry expert Amanda Gizzi, Director of Public Relations at the non-profit trade organization Jewelers of America. For instance, artificial stones, like cubic zirconia, typically will cost less than real diamonds, and cheaper metals, such as nickel or plated gold, will come at a lower price point compared to solid gold or platinum. Similarly, smaller or lower-quality stones (real or lab-made) will also be cheaper options than larger, higher-quality stones.
Choosing a tennis necklace requires weighing your own personal style preferences, alongside information about stone quality, metal type, and overall look. To help you find the best piece for you, we researched dozens of necklaces across several price tiers. Additionally, Gizzi offered further expert insights on the most important factors to consider when choosing a glittering new necklace to add to your jewelry box.
Best Tennis Necklaces Under $500
Tennis necklaces aren’t just pure luxury items—today’s jewelry market also features more affordable options. At the cheapest price tier, you’re likely to see cheaper metals (or plated metals) and affordable, artificial stones, like cubic zirconia.
With a classic, sleek design, this tennis necklace features round-cut Swarovski crystals in four color combinations and two different lengths. It’s a delicate necklace without any frills—just a touch of sparkle and glamor.
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Instead of a basic line of stones, this necklace ups the ante with graduated stones. Three hypoallergenic metals (18k yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum) can be plated over the sterling silver base, and eco-friendly cubic zirconia sparkles from every direction.
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This tennis chain necklace offers just the slightest sparkle around your neck. Along with the price, we especially love that the plating uses real 18k yellow or rose gold (although you can also choose silver-toned rhodium), which is less likely to irritate sensitive skin.
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Best Tennis Necklaces Under $1000
At a slightly higher price point, you might begin getting (very small) authentic stones, either mined or lab-created. These necklaces also offer more variety in terms of design, particularly through the use of different colored stones or chain structure.
Most tennis-style necklaces feature round or square-cut stones, but this innovative design uses a triangular “trillion” cut for extra dimension. Lab-grown white sapphires, paired with sterling silver, provide a more environmentally-friendly and affordable option while retaining the glittering look you love.
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Cute and cheerful, this tennis necklace’s stand is made up of tiny, sparkling daisies, each composed of a yellow cubic zirconia stone surrounded by white “petal” stones to make a bolder fashion statement.
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Instead of typical clear stones, this tennis necklace allows you to choose from blue topaz, amethyst, garnet, or a multi-color combination of semi precious stones. The simple style pairs well with the vibrant stones to prevent it from overwhelming your outfit.
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Instead of one color and one size of stones, this necklace alternates between small, white sapphires and larger, deep blue sapphires, all set in sterling silver. Plus, the lab-created gems are a great option for anyone looking for a more ethical approach to jewelry.
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Best Tennis Necklaces Under $1500
At this price point, the total carat weight of stones is likely to get a little higher. Our picks in this category include diamonds that come in just under 1 carat (total weight) up to around 3 carats. These also tend to be a little sleeker and more classic, rather than the more “playful” designs of lower priced tennis necklaces.
3 carats of brilliant-cut diamonds are arranged in a graduated strand, ensuring the most sparkle takes center stage. It features a convenient, safe push-button latch for security, plus a choice between a polished sterling silver or 18kt gold.
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Instead of having jewels all the way around, this tennis necklace features an unbroken row of ethically-sourced diamond drops along the front. Along the back half, you’ll find a delicate gold “paper clip” chain.
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