A tennis bracelet is a classic piece of jewelry, designed to be a timeless accessory. It is a bracelet that has a series of diamonds or gemstones, often set in a row of four-pronged settings. The stones can be round, oval, or marquise-shaped, depending on the style. The name “tennis bracelet” was created after the famous tennis star Chris Evert’s bracelet broke during a match in the 1987 U.S. Open.
Can Links Be Taken Out of Tennis Bracelets?
The answer to this question is yes, links can be taken out of a tennis bracelet. Depending on the type of bracelet and the type of link, there are a few different ways to do this. Generally speaking, it is best to have a professional jeweler remove the links, as they have the right tools and expertise to do so without damaging the bracelet.
Types of Links in Tennis Bracelets
When attempting to remove links from a tennis bracelet, it is important to know what type of link it is. There are two main types of links that are used in tennis bracelets: fixed links and removable links.
Fixed Links
Fixed links are links that are permanently attached to the bracelet. They are usually held together with screws, which help create a secure connection. These links can be difficult to remove as it requires special tools to unscrew the screws, and it can be easy to strip the threads if not done properly.
Removable Links
Removable links are generally held together with pins, which makes them easier to remove. The pins can be removed by using a special tool, such as a link removal tool or a pin pusher. This tool is inserted into the hole in the link, and the pin is pushed out.
Steps to Remove Links from a Tennis Bracelet
Once you know what type of link you have in your tennis bracelet, you can proceed with removing the links. Here are the steps to removing links from a tennis bracelet:
- Gather the right tools: You will need a link removal tool or a pin pusher, depending on the type of link.
- Choose the link to remove: If you are removing a fixed link, you will need to choose the one with the screw. For removable links, choose the one with a pin.
- Insert the tool: If you are removing a fixed link, insert the link removal tool into the hole in the link and carefully unscrew the screw. If you are removing a removable link, insert the pin pusher into the hole in the link and carefully push the pin out.
- Verify the link is removed: Carefully inspect the link to make sure it is completely removed.
- Repeat: Repeat the process for any additional links you wish to remove.
Professional Jeweler vs. DIY Link Removal
When it comes to removing links from a tennis bracelet, it is important to consider if you should do it yourself or take it to a professional jeweler.
Professional Jeweler
Taking the bracelet to a professional jeweler is the safest and most reliable option. Jewelers have the right tools and expertise to remove links from a tennis bracelet without damaging it. It is also important to have a professional inspect the bracelet afterwards to make sure there are no visible signs of damage.
DIY Link Removal
DIY link removal is possible, but it is not recommended. Removing links without the right tools and expertise can lead to damaging the bracelet and the links. This can lead to a weakened bracelet, which can result in the bracelet breaking more easily.
Tips for Taking Care of a Tennis Bracelet
Once you have removed the links from a tennis bracelet, it is important to take proper care of it. Here are a few tips for taking care of a tennis bracelet:
- Clean regularly: To keep the bracelet looking its best, it is important to clean it regularly. Use a soft, damp cloth and mild dish soap to clean the bracelet, then rinse it off with warm water and dry it with a soft cloth.
- Avoid contact with chemicals: To keep the stones and metal looking its best, it is important to avoid contact with chemicals. Avoid wearing the bracelet when using cleaning products, swimming, and other activities that involve contact with chemicals.
- Store properly: When not wearing the bracelet, it is important to store it properly. Store it in a soft cloth pouch or jewelry box to keep it safe from dust and dirt.
Conclusion
In conclusion, links can be taken out of a tennis bracelet. Depending on the type of link, it is possible to do it yourself with the right tools, or you can take it to a professional jeweler for a reliable and secure removal. Once you have removed the links, it is important to take proper care of the bracelet by cleaning it regularly and avoiding contact with chemicals.