Rooted in centuries of history of adornment dating back to the ancient world, modern jewelry reimagines traditional techniques, forms and materials for expressive new pieces. As opposed to contemporary jewelry, which responds to the moment in which it was created, modern jewelry often describes designs from the 20th to 21st centuries that reflect movements and trends in visual culture.
Modern jewelry emerged from the 19th-century shift away from jewelry indicating rank or social status. The Industrial Revolution allowed machine-made jewelry using electric gold plating, metal alloys and imitation stones, making beautiful jewelry widely accessible. Although mass production deemphasized the materials of the jewelry, the vision of the designer remained important, something that would be furthered in the 1960s with what’s known as the “critique of preciousness.”
A design fair called the “Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes” brought global attention to the Art Deco style in 1925 and gathered a mix of jewelry artists alongside master jewelers like Van Cleef & Arpels, Mauboussin and Boucheron. Art Deco designs from Cartier and Van Cleef & Arpels unconventionally mixed gemstones like placing rock crystals next to diamonds while borrowing motifs from eclectic sources including Asian lacquer and Persian carpets. Among Cartier’s foremost design preoccupations at the time were high-contrast color combinations and crisp, geometric forms and patterns. In the early 20th century, modernist jewelers like Margaret De Patta and artists such as Alexander Calder — who is better known for his kinetic sculptures than his provocative jewelry — explored sculptural metalwork in which geometric shapes and lines were preferred over elaborate ornamentation.
Many of the innovations in modern jewelry were propelled by women designers such as Wendy Ramshaw, who used paper to craft her accessories in the 1960s. During the 1970s, Elsa Peretti created day-to-night pieces for Tiffany & Co. while designers like Lea Stein experimented with layering plastic, a material that had been employed in jewelry since the mid-19th century and had expanded into Bakelite, acrylics and other unique materials.
Find a collection of modern watches, bracelets, engagement rings, necklaces, earrings and other jewelry on 1stDibs.
Bulgari Serpenti Diamond 18K White Gold Bangle Bracelet Size 15
By Bulgari
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: An iconic Serpenti bangle bracelet by Bulgari, exquisitely crafted in solid 18K white gold. This elegant piece features the Maison's legendary serpent design adorned wit...
Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
Cartier Panthere Green Tsavorite 18K Yellow Gold Panther Bangle Bracelet Size 16
By Cartier
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: An iconic Panthere bangle bracelet by Cartier, expertly crafted in solid 18K yellow gold. This elegant design features the Maison's legendary panther motif accented with...
Tsavorite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14KT Yellow Gold Elegant Pavé Diamond 6.98 Cts Bangle Bracelet
Located in Antwerp, BE
This sophisticated bangle bracelet features a stunning, continuous array of brilliant round-cut diamonds set in a shimmering pavé arrangement. Crafted in warm 14K yellow gold, the sl...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Massive Bakelite Bracelet Bangle Yellow Creamed Corn
Located in Atlanta, GA
This is a great-looking yellow creamed corn Bakelite bracelet bangle. It boasts an extra-wide sliced shape and an intense, bright, plain yellow color. Measurements: Inside across is ...
c1995 Cartier Trinity Bangle Bracelet Sz 17 18k Yellow Gold Vintage Jewelry
By Cartier
Located in Torrance, CA
Vintage Cartier Trinity bangle bracelet crafted in 18 karat yellow gold (with a rose, white and yellow gold trinity designed stations). The Trinity bracelet was released in 1995 a...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
1980s Pierre Cardin Signed Gilt Metal French Bracelet
Located in Aci Castello, IT
An authentic piece of 1980s French haute couture costume jewelry, this Pierre Cardin bracelet features a bold, sculptural design in rich gilt metal. The piece is composed of chunky, ...
Gilt Metal
Oxidized Silver and 24K Yellow Gold Diamond Snake Hinged Bracelet by Lika Behar
By Lika Behar
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
Striking and symbolic, this oxidized silver and 24K yellow gold snake hinged bangle by Lika Behar coils elegantly around the wrist with sculptural grace. The serpent’s form is richly...
Diamond, 24k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
Cartier Juste un Clou Diamond 18k Rose Gold Bangle Bracelet w/Paper Size 18
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Cartier Collection: Juste un Clou Style: Diamond Pavé Nail Bracelet Material: 18k rose gold Hallmarks: Cartier 18 CCP162 Au750 Gemstones/Diamonds: Natural diamonds approx...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
TJD 4.50 CT Natural Round & Baguette Diamond Bangle Bracelet in 14KT White Gold
By TJD
Located in New York, NY
Curated by The Jewelry Destination, this exquisite natural round and baguette diamond bangle bracelet is crafted in luminous 14 karat white gold, where refined design and luminous ge...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Tiffany & Co. Infinity Diamond Bangle in 18K Yellow Gold
Located in Tampa, FL
A Tiffany & Co. Infinity bangle crafted in polished 18 karat yellow gold and centered by the house’s signature intertwined infinity motif. The sculptural centerpiece is traced with r...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
CHANEL 18K Gold Cultured Pearl & Diamond Matelassé Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Miami, FL
An exceptional vintage Chanel creation, this elegant Matelassé bracelet is crafted in 18K yellow gold and showcases Chanel's iconic quilted-inspired design. The bracelet is richly ad...
Diamond, Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold
Vintage Rare 1997 C de Cartier Double C Diamond Open Bracelet in Rose Gold
By Cartier
Located in London, England
A stunning vintage Cartier C de Cartier diamond bracelet set in 18k rose gold, circa 1997.
From the iconic C...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
John Galliano Clear Acrylic Resin Bracelet Bangle with Newspaper Inclusions
Located in Atlanta, GA
This stunning John Galliano Paris bracelet is from the 2000 Autumn-Winter "Newspaper" collection. The bangle features an acrylic, or Lucite, chunky sliced shape in transparent light ...
14 Karat Yellow Gold Sterling Silver Multi-Color Enamel Gemstone Bangle Bracelet
Located in Baltimore, MD
14 Karat Yellow Gold & Sterling Silver Multi-Color Enamel Gemstone Bangle Bracelet Metal: 14k yellow gold & sterling silver 925 Weight: 29.52 grams Size: Fits up to a 7 inch wrist In...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver, Enamel
18K White Gold Diamond Pavé Bangle Bracelet, 5.10 Carats Round Brilliants 24.4g
Located in Plantation, FL
An elegant and substantial 18 karat white gold diamond pavé hinged bangle bracelet, set with approximately 5.10 carats of round brilliant cut diamonds. The bracelet features full pav...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Goossens Paris 24ct Gold Dipped Brass Lutèce Cuff Bracelet
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
New at the House of Goossens. Cuff from the Lutèce Collection. A precious alchemy of shine and patina, this new collection plays with light and shade. The essence of textured, hammer...
Gold, Brass
Lagos Caviar Sterling Silver Bangle Bracelet with 18K Gold Accents
By Lagos Caviar
Located in Boca Raton, FL
LAGOS Caviar Bracelet crafted in sterling silver with 18K yellow gold accents, showcasing the iconic Caviar beaded design that has become one of the brand's most recognizable and end...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
La Nouvelle Bague 18 Karat Gold Bangle Bracelet with Diamonds and Green Enamel
Located in New York, NY
This magnificent 18 karat yellow gold bracelet is designed by the world renowned Italian company La Nouvelle Bague. They are known for their exquisite enamel work, marrying the class...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Bulgari B.zero1 Rose Gold and Diamond Bracelet
By Bulgari
Located in New Orleans, LA
This iconic Bulgari B.zero1 bangle exemplifies the house’s mastery of contemporary luxury design. Crafted in 18K rose gold, the bracelet is pavé set with diamonds totaling 11.60 cara...
Diamond, Rose Gold
Vintage Italian 14K Gold Diamond Flexible Bangle Bracelet Circa 1970
Located in Miami, FL
Elegant and timeless, this Italian flexible bangle bracelet is crafted in 14 karat yellow gold and showcases the refined craftsmanship synonymous with fine Italian jewelry of the 197...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Taxco Mexican Sterling Silver Modernist Hinged Bangle Bracelet
By Taxco
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine vintage Mexican silver bangle bracelet. In sterling silver. With a central dome device flanked on either side by openwork and smaller do...
Sterling Silver
La Nouvelle Bague 18KT Rose Gold, Burgundy Enamel and .59 Carat Diamond Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This 18 karat rose gold bracelet is designed by the world renowned Italian company La Nouvelle Bague. They are known for their exquisite craftsmanship, marrying the classic with the...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Enamel
$10,194Sale Price|20% Off
2.42 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Gold Bangle Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This estate bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 2.42-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. Crafted in 18k gold, it was chosen ...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Bvlgari, 18K Gold Mother-of-Pearl Serpenti Quartz Wristwatch
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
This BVLGARI Serpenti watch bangle coils in sculptural rose gold, articulated with scale-like links for fluid movement. Pavé diamonds accent geometric motifs, framing a sleek dial wi...
Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Clover Natural Diamonds Bangle Bracelet 14kt 95547*
By Unbranded
Located in New York, NY
Diamonds Clover Solid Bangle Bracelet 1.40ct Natural Diamonds Rounds, Full Cut brilliant G-color Vs-2 clarity 14kt yellow gold 49.6 grams Inner: 2.25 inch X 2 inch Top: .38 inch wide...
Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,660Sale Price|30% Off
GIA Certified Untreated Jadeite Jade Hinged Bangle Bracelet 14K Gold Clasp
Located in New York, NY
A striking and unusual natural jadeite jade bangle bracelet, composed of two contrasting arc-shaped segments showcasing a rare and visually dynamic color combination. One half displa...
Jade, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Tank Princess Cut Diamond 18k White Gold Bangle Bracelet Size 16
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Cartier Collection: Tank Style: Bangle Bracelet Material: 18k white gold Hallmarks: 1997 Cartier 750 E53038 16 Gemstones/Diamonds: One princess-cut natural diamond approx...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$1,680Sale Price|20% Off
Tanisa Nahata Diamond 1.05ct. Bangle in 18Karat White Gold.
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Made by nature over a period of time and under great pressure, diamonds are a beautiful reminder that all things great take time. There is a reason why diamonds are a girl’s best fri...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Roberto Coin 18k Yellow Gold Primavera Diamond Weave Bangle Bracelet
By Roberto Coin
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Roberto Coin 18k Yellow Gold Primavera Diamond Weave Bangle Bracelet Crafted in 18-karat yellow gold, this bracelet features a beautiful near-colorless diamond station on a weave st...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Love Four Diamond Bracelet Classic Model 18K Yellow Gold Size 18
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Love diamond bracelet crafted in 18K yellow gold, set with 4 round brilliant cut diamonds totaling 0.42 carat. Size 18. Bracelet width: 6.1mm. Total weight: 32.5 grams. Excel...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Designer Bangle with Green Emerald and Pave Diamonds Made in 18k Gold & Silver
By Artisan NYC
Located in New York, NY
"18kt gold:2.77g, Diamond:2.4ct, Silver:22.68gm, Emerald:20.20ct" Size;65X58X18MM
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Silver, Gold
Massive Yellow Resin Bracelet Bangle with Carved Daisy Flowers
Located in Atlanta, GA
This exquisite lucite or resin bracelet bangle features a heavily domed, massive shape in a bright yellow color. The bangle is ornate with a carved design of daisy flowers and orange...
Cartier Walking Pantheres Nakoura Cuff Bracelet 18K Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
The beauty of wild cats is captured in this striking Cartier Nakoura Cuff Bracelet. Of sprung design formed of five walking pantheres, each studded with single pear shaped tsavorite ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bvlgari 18K Gold, Pearl And Diamond Bangle Bracelet
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
A striking Bvlgari bracelet crafted in 18K yellow gold, set across the front with a row of large white pearls separated by wide pavé diamond-set spacers. The back is finished with su...
Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold
Cartier Triple Bangle 18k Rose, White, Yellow Gold
By Cartier
Located in Dallas, TX
Three bangles in one by Cartier in 18K rose, white, and yellow gold. The bangle has a inner diameter of 7 inches. Stamped Cartier 1995 60 750.
18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
60s Vintage Opal Pink Tourmaline Bracelet Heart Diamond 14k Yellow Gold Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
Stylish and finely de1ailed vintage opal & pink tourmaline bangle bracelet crafted in 14 karat yellow gold (circa 1960s). Heart cut pink tourmaline measures 9mm x 7mm. Opal gra...
Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Tourmaline, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Ming's Bird on a Plum Gold Pierced Hinged Bangle 14K Yellow Gold
Located in Honolulu, HI
Specifications: Designer: Ming's Hawaii Metal: 14k Yellow Gold Total Weight: 25.8 Grams Bracelet Circumference: ~7.0" Inner Diameter: ~2.26" Bracelet Height: 14.3 mm Stamped: ...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
La Nouvelle 18 Karat Gold Bracelet with .59 Carat Diamonds and Burgundy Enamel
Located in New York, NY
This 18 karat rose gold bracelet is designed by the world renowned Italian company La Nouvelle Bague. They are known for their exquisite craftsmanship, marrying the classic with the...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Enamel
Scintillating Yellow and White Diamond Bangle Bracelet in 18K White Gold
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This expertly crafted vintage 18K white gold hinged bangle bracelet is set with hundreds of white and fancy light yellow round brilliant cut diamonds. A single line of white diamonds...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 14 Karat Gold Diamond and Opal Floral Hinged Bangle Bracelet
Located in Miami, FL
A beautifully crafted vintage hinged bangle bracelet in 14 karat yellow gold, featuring a central floral cluster composed of a round brilliant-cut diamond surrounded by six round cab...
Diamond, Opal, Gold, 14k Gold
KJL Kenneth Jay Lane Gold Coral Branch Enamel Soft Orange Cuff Bracelet
Located in Milford, DE
More beautiful than the oceans! This nautical Kenneth Jay Lane cuff bracelet features coral branches painted in a mellow-orange enamel. Set on gold plated metal setting. Hinged ban...
Gold Plate, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. Jean Schlumberger 18K Gold Green Enamel Bangle Bracelet
Located in Houston, TX
An uncommon masterpiece by Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co. Green Vitreous Paillonné Enamel bangle bracelet in 18K yellow gold. Circa 1990. Signed: Tiffany & Co, Schlumber...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
GIA Certified Jadeite Jade Bangle Bracelet, 381.90 Carats
Located in LA, CA
Item #8101 GIA Certified Jadeite Jade Bangle One bangle bracelet. Natural color. Jadeite Jade. Shape: Bangle Bracelet Weight: 381.90 carats Representing prosperity, good luck, and ...
Jade
$2,072Sale Price|20% Off
Antique 14K Gold Enamel Ram Head Bracelet, United Kingdom, 1950s
Located in North Hollywood, CA
This enamel Rams head bracelet is done in enamel with textured details. The back is smooth the front is highly detailed. This fits a size 6.5 wrist and it weighs 27.60 grams. The ...
14k Gold, Enamel
Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold Paloma Picasso Blue Enamel Star Bangle
Located in New York, NY
Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso 18K Yellow Gold Blue Enamel Star Bracelet, an exceptionally bold and artistic creation showcasing Paloma Picasso’s unmistakable design language. Crafted ...
Diamond, Enamel, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Cartier Classic Love Bracelet in Yellow Gold Size 21 box and certificate
By Cartier
Located in Lisboa, PT
An enduring symbol of commitment and refined elegance, this iconic Cartier Love bracelet in 18 kt yellow gold embodies the Maison’s timeless design language. Created in the spirit of...
Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. Vintage 12.00cttw 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Bracelet
By Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co.
Located in New York, NY
A striking vintage Tiffany & Co. bracelet rendered in 18K yellow gold, showcasing an intricate nugget-inspired design that feels both organic and sculptural. The surface is composed ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Juste Un Clou Size 19 Classic Bracelet
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
An enduring icon of modern jewelry design, the Cartier Juste un Clou bracelet reimagines an ordinary nail as an extraordinary statement of luxury. Crafted in rich 18K yellow gold, t...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Love Diamond Pave 18K White Gold Classic Model Size 18 Bangle Bracelet
By Cartier
Located in Tysons, VA
Cartier Love bracelet crafted in luxurious 18K white gold and accented with brilliant pavé-set natural diamonds. This classic model of Cartier’s iconic Love bracelet features the mai...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Ming's Hawaii Pierced Longevity Gold Hinged Bangle 14K Yellow Gold 7"
Located in Honolulu, HI
Specifications: Designer: Ming's Hawaii Metal: 14k Yellow Gold Total Weight: 19.7 Grams Bracelet Circumference: ~7.0" (17.8 cm) Inner Diameter: 2.25" Bracelet Height: 11 mm ...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$22,400Sale Price|20% Off
Bvlgari 18K Gold Parentesi Hematite Bracelet
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
A classic Bvlgari Parentesi bangle bracelet crafted in 18K yellow gold and polished hematite, showcasing one of the house's most iconic and enduring designs. Inspired by the interloc...
Hematite, Gold, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. Heart Love Knot Bangle Bracelet Sterling Silver 14K Yellow Gold
Located in New York, NY
Indulge in an authentic Tiffany & Co. Heart Love Knot Bangle Bracelet in Sterling Silver and 14K Gold. The bangle features the iconic Heart Love Knot design with a polished hook-...
Gold, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold, Sterling Silver
Cartier Classic Love Bracelet in White Gold Size 19
By Cartier
Located in Lisboa, PT
This Cartier Classic Love Bracelet in 18 kt white gold, size 19, is an iconic expression of timeless design and enduring commitment. Crafted by Cartier, the renowned French maison, t...
White Gold, 18k Gold
22329 Tiffany & Co Platinum Pave Diamond Open Square Bangle Bracelet M
Located in Chicago, IL
Platinum bracelet weighs 20.7g 34 round diamonds total weight 1.00ct All diamonds are F color VS1 clarity Inner circumference 48.2mm wide x 58.3mm (1.89'' x 2.29'') Bracelet fits a 6...
Diamond, Platinum
Black Enamel and Sterling Silver Bangle Bracelet
By SOHO
Located in Dallas, TX
Soho designed Sterling Silver, Black Enamel, and 5 Diamond bangle bracelet with 0.10ctw Round Diamonds. Stamped SOHO 925 Italy. Interior diameter is 6.75 inches. Great for casual or ...
Diamond, Sterling Silver, Enamel
Art Deco Bakelite Bracelet Bangle Red Tea Amber Marble
Located in Atlanta, GA
This stunning red tea amber marble Bakelite bracelet bangle features an oversized wide domed shape. The intense red tea marble tone has honey amber cloudy swirling and transparency. ...
$100,000Sale Price|20% Off
Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger 18K Yellow Gold Green Enamel And Diamond Bracelet
By Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co.
Located in New York, NY
A refined expression of Jean Schlumberger’s signature aesthetic, this Tiffany & Co. hinged bangle is crafted in rich 18K yellow gold and adorned with luminous light green paillonné e...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Cartier Love Diamond Pave Thin Small 18K White Gold Size 17 Bangle Bracelet
By Cartier
Located in Tysons, VA
Cartier Love bracelet crafted in elegant 18K white gold and accented with brilliant pavé-set natural diamonds. This thinner version of the iconic Love bracelet showcases Cartier’s ce...
Diamond, Tsavorite, 18k Gold, White Gold
Christian Dior Black Acrylic Resin Bracelet Bangle with Gilded Hearts
Located in Atlanta, GA
This stunning Christian Dior bracelet features a chunky black acrylic or Lucite bangle with assorted gilded heart designs embedded in the material. The bracelet is engraved on the ed...
David Yurman Prasiolite & Diamond Waverly Cuff Bracelet 925 Sterling Silver 10mm
By David Yurman
Located in New York, NY
Bold and chic, DAVID YURMAN 925 Sterling Silver sculpted cable cuff bracelet featuring faceted green prasiolite gemstones on either ends framed by pave set round cut diamonds weighin...
Diamond, Sterling Silver