Diamond Tennis Bracelet

What it was

A seven-inch line bracelet in 14K white gold, four-prong set with a single row of round brilliant diamonds — the standard “tennis bracelet.” Unsigned, with a box clasp and figure-eight safety.

How we evaluated it

Tennis bracelets are valued almost entirely on the diamonds, so the work is in grading them. We examined the stones under magnification for color against master stones and for clarity, and checked that they were consistent: this bracelet had well-matched stones in the H–I color, SI1–SI2 clarity range, with a couple of slightly lower stones near the clasp that were noted. Total weight was calculated from the stone measurements and count. Each stone was also screened to confirm natural origin. The metal was tested and weighed.

How it was priced

Diamonds in this size (roughly 0.13–0.15 ct each) trade per carat on the wholesale melee market, and the price was built from the current per-carat rate for that size and quality, plus the gold. Because the bracelet was in good condition with a sound clasp, it was priced as a finished piece rather than as loose stones, which added modestly.

What this means for other sellers

The value of a tennis bracelet depends on the quality of the diamonds far more than on their total weight. Five carats of I–J / I1 stones and five carats of G–H / VS stones can differ by two or three times. A buyer should grade the stones in front of you rather than quoting from the total weight on an old appraisal.