Diamond Necklaces Explained: Riviera vs Tennis Necklaces – Hamra Jewelers
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Woman with Diamond Curvy Hoop Earrings in, two diamond necklaces and an aquamarine ring on.

SELECTING THE PERFECT DIAMOND NECKLACE

Few pieces capture timeless elegance quite like a diamond necklace. They are easy to layer, hard to ignore and always in style! Among the most timeless styles are the Riviera and tennis necklace. While often mistaken for one another, one is sculptural and graduated, while the other is seamless and modern. At Hamra Jewelers, we believe the right diamond necklace should feel effortless. That’s why our collection focuses on clean design, exceptional diamonds, and timeless wearability.

Graduated Brilliance: Diamond Riviera Necklaces

A diamond Riviera necklace is a continuous strand of diamonds that graduates in size— starting with smaller stones near the clasp and culminating in larger, more prominent diamonds near the center. This style draws the eye to the collarbone, making it a favored choice for black-tie events and formal occasions.


Thanks to its graduated design, Riviera necklaces feel refined and architectural. They're sculptural in form, often sitting slightly higher on the neckline than tennis necklaces, and pair beautifully with evening gowns or minimalistic silhouettes.

Seamless Sparkle: Diamond Tennis Necklaces

In contrast, the tennis necklace (also known as an eternity necklace) features diamonds of uniform size throughout the entire strand. Each diamond is meticulously matched for cut, clarity, and carat weight, creating a clean, modern line of continuous sparkle.


The tennis necklace is elegant yet versatile. Its design echoes the classic tennis bracelet, famously popularized when tennis star Chris Evert lost her diamond bracelet mid-match in the 1980s. While the necklace style doesn’t share the same origin story, its name reflects the same spirit of refined simplicity and everyday luxury.

Styling Your Diamond Necklace

Whether you prefer the graduated brilliance of a Riviera or the clean symmetry of a tennis necklace, both styles offer surprising versatility. It’s less about saving them for special occasions and more about making them part of your signature look.

For Formal Events:

Let the diamonds take center stage by pairing your necklace with an open neckline or strapless gown. Keep other accessories minimal—simple earrings and no competing pendants allow the necklace to shine with effortless elegance.

For Everyday Luxury:

Make your necklace a signature piece that complements daily life. Whether layered with delicate chains or worn alone, a tennis or Riviera necklace adds subtle luxury to staples like a crisp blouse, soft cashmere sweater, or even a casual tee. It’s an easy way to elevate your look without feeling overdone.

The Value of Exceptional Craftsmanship

Quality matters in every aspect of a diamond necklace. From the cut and clarity of each diamond to the craftsmanship of the setting, these necklaces demand expert hands to deliver not only beauty but also security and wearability. Every piece in our collection meets rigorous standards so you can wear it confidently, day after day. After all, it’s the kind of necklace you put on once—and never want to take off.

Woman with a diamond riviera on

Selecting Your Signature Sparkle

Explore our curated selection of Riviera and tennis necklaces, each crafted to elevate your everyday elegance. Whether you visit us in person or shop online, our knowledgeable team is here to help you select the diamond necklace that truly fits your style.

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