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.
Tiffany & Co. Return to Tiffany Sterling Silver Heart Chain Tag Link Bracelet
Located in Baltimore, MD
Tiffany & Co. Return to Tiffany Sterling Silver Heart Chain Tag Link Bracelet Metal: Stelring silver 925 Weight: 36.58 grams Length: 7 inches Links: 10 x 10mm Heart: 20mm D F35002234
Sterling Silver
A Vintage 14k Yellow Gold 8"L Miami Cuban Solid Link Chain
Located in valatie, NY
A Vintage 14k Yellow Gold 8"L Miami Cuban Solid Link Chain. This high-quality bracelet in 8" is a standard men’s or ladies wrist size. It is characterized by round, interlocking link...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$510Sale Price|40% Off
Multi Chain Bracelet Italian Leather Silver Plated Paris J Dauphin
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Multi Chain Bracelet Italian Leather Silver Plated Paris Designer: J Dauphin — Paris Archive The Vintage Multi-Chain Archival Bracelet is a rare, one-of-a-kind statement piece handc...
Silver, Brass, Silver Plate
David Yurman Sterling Silver & 14K Gold 5mm Wheat Chain Bracelet
By David Yurman
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver bracelet. By David Yurman. In sterling silver with 14 karat yellow gold accents to each terminal. In a wheat chain style in the 5mm size. With a lobster claw...
14k Gold, Sterling Silver
Cartier Panthère de Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Chain Bracelet
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
Circa unknown. This Cartier bracelet embodies timeless elegance with its refined design. Crafted in 18k yellow gold, it features the iconic Panthère de Cartier motif, a symbol of gr...
Emerald, Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$43,520Sale Price|20% Off
Cartier 106 grams 18K Yellow Gold Large Braided Link Bracelet
By Cartier
Located in Chicago, IL
A bold vintage Cartier bracelet crafted in rich 18 karat yellow gold, showcasing an elegant large braided link design. The sculptural construction creates a striking yet refined pres...
10k Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Contemporary 1.16ct Diamond Bracelet in Yellow Gold
Located in London, England
A stunning vintage contemporary diamond line bracelet set in 18k yellow gold.
The bracelet features a line of round brilliant cut diamonds each set in an elegant 18k yello...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bracelet with buel chalcedony and onyx 17.5 cm long 28.0 grams 18k gold
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold link bracelet set with icicle-shaped chalcedony and onyx – 28.0 grams – 17.5 cm long Detailed description Length of the bracelet is 17.5 cm long by 1.4 cm wide and ...
Chalcedony, Onyx, 18k Gold
$840Sale Price|20% Off
Natural Mozambique Red Ruby & Diamond Curb Chain Bracelet in 14K Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This elegant chain bracelet features a 0.45 carat ruby set in 14K yellow gold. The ruby measuring 5.8 x 4.1 mm in a classic prong setting. The center stone is accented by 0.13 carats...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$708Sale Price / item|20% Off
Minimal September Birthstone Blue Sapphire Chain Bracelet in 18k Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This Minimal September Birthstone Blue Sapphire Chain Bracelet in 18k Yellow Gold showcases 11 endlessly sparkling natural Blue sapphire, weighing 2.9 carats. It measures 7 inches lo...
Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$439Sale Price|20% Off
Gold & Resin Cabochon Organic Link Bracelet With Logo Clasp By Givenchy, 1980s
By Givenchy
Located in McKinney, TX
- Vintage item - 7.5" length - .75" width - Gold plated - Amber, red, brown and green resin cabochons - Crystal rhinestone accents - Fold over "GG" clasp closure - By Givench...
18K Yellow Gold Cable Chain Bracelet, 8 Inch, 42.6g, Vintage Elegance
Located in Towson, MD
An exceptional 18 karat yellow gold cable chain bracelet, measuring approximately 8 inches in length and 1/2 inch in width, and weighing a substantial 42.6 grams. The bracelet featur...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 5 Motif Blue Agate 18K Yellow Gold Bracelet
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: An iconic Vintage Alhambra 5 Motif Bracelet by Van Cleef & Arpels, exquisitely crafted in solid 18K yellow gold. This timeless design features five signature Alhambra mo...
Agate, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Tiffany & Co. Circle Link Bracelet in Yellow Gold
Located in London, England
A vintage Tiffany & Co. circle link bracelet set in 18k yellow gold.
The bracelet is composed of interlinking circles which vary in shapes and sizes. Due to its design...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Magic 5 Motif Alhambra Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
An elegant Van Cleef & Arpels Magic Alhambra bracelet crafted in 18K yellow gold, featuring a captivating combination of white mother-of-pearl, black onyx, and iridescent gray mother...
Gold, 18k Gold
Diamond Tennis Bracelet, 14K Yellow Gold, Heavy Gold Bracelet
Located in Austin, TX
This tennis bracelet is a sleek design that will accent any bracelet party or it can stand alone. If you have always wanted a tennis bracelet this 14 karat yellow gold is a beauty with its white gold settings to hold 17...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Multi Chain Cuff Sculptural Bracelet Burnt Silver
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Multi Chain Cuff Bracelet Burnt Silver Palladium Sculptural Vintage Paris Designer: J DAUPHIN The Multi Chain Cuff is a rare archive piece, handcrafted in Paris and finished in pal...
Silver, Brass
Chain Wrap Bracelet Silver Black Leather Choker Vintage Paris
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Chain Wrap Bracelet Silver Black Leather Choker Vintage Paris Designer: J DAUPHIN The Twist Chain is a rare archive piece, handcrafted in Paris in 2008. Several strands of silver p...
Silver, Brass
$576Sale Price / item|20% Off
Modern 18 Karat Solid Yellow Gold Mounted Peridot Gemstone Link Chain Bracelet
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This Peridot Linking Chain Bracelet in 18K gold showcases 12 endlessly sparkling natural peridot, weighing 5.85 carats. It measures 7 inches long in length. Peridot attracts love an...
Peridot, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1990s Cartier Geometric Two Tone Link Bracelet in Yellow and White Gold
By Cartier
Located in London, England
A rare vintage Cartier geometric two-tone bracelet set in 18k yellow and white gold, circa 1990s.
The piece features the geometric motif connected by polished bars. It cre...
18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,416Sale Price|20% Off
Classic 13.7ct Turquoise Cabochon Bezel Set Station Bracelet in 14K Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This elegant bracelet features 7 natural turquoise cabochons totaling 13.7 carats, arranged in a solid 14K yellow gold. Each l turquoise is securely framed in a refined bezel setting...
Turquoise, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rossella Ugolini 24K Yellow Gold Plated Unique Links Chain Bracelet
Located in Rome, IT
Elevate your style with the exquisite Rossella Ugolini Italian Design Modern Bracelet, a manifestation of contemporary luxury in Silver Sterling 24K Yellow Gold plated . Meticulously...
Gold, Yellow Gold, 24k Gold, Gold Plate
Vintage Hemmerle Heart Moonstone Diamond Curb Chain Bracelet 18k 750 Yellow Gold
By Hemmerle
Located in München, DE
Rare Vintage Hemmerle curb chain bracelet in 18k 750 yellow gold with heart-shaped moonstone and diamond settings, a collectible German high jewelry piece ideal for gifting and moder...
Diamond, Moonstone, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Givenchy Herringbone Chain Bracelet with Logo Clasp, 1980s
By Givenchy
Located in London, GB
1980s Vintage Givenchy herringbone chain bracelet in gold plate. This vintage bracelet features a flat, wide herringbone chain with a statement d...
Gold Plate
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti 18k Yellow Gold Mesh Heart Toggle Clasp Bracelet 8"
By Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Tiffany & Co. Collection: Elsa Peretti Mesh Heart Toggle Bracelet Designer: Elsa Peretti Style: Mesh Toggle Bracelet Material: 18k yellow gold Hallmarks: Tiffany & Co. El...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$372Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Pink Sapphire Pear Cut Station Chain Bracelet Handmade Jewelry
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Handmade 14K yellow gold station bracelet featuring pear cut natural pink sapphires, with a total weight of 1 carat. Each sapphire is bezel set along a gold chain. The bracelet measu...
Pink Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Handcrafted Solid White Gold Man Chain Bracelets Made in Italy
Located in Rome, IT
Solid 14k white gold man link bracelet Handmade in Italy by Rossella Ugolini. Weight 30 gr., Length: 8 in (20cm). Polished. Other lengths are available upon request. Its substantial...
14k Gold, Gold, White Gold
$175Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra 925 Sterling Silver Twisted Curb Chain Linked Unisex Modern Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This Silvorra 925 sterling silver bracelet features a bold twisted curb chain-link design that embodies modern elegance. Crafted from solid sterling silver, it offers a polished, dur...
Silver, Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co Elsa Peretti Five Open Hearts Sterling Silver Bracelet
By Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine Tiffany & Co. 5 Open Hearts bracelet. In sterling silver. Designed by Elsa Peretti. With 5 openwork hearts connected by small chain links and with a spring action clasp. ...
Sterling Silver
$1,080Sale Price / item|20% Off
3.7 Carat Pear-Cut Emerald Station Bracelet in 18K Yellow Gold Christmas Gift
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This elegant station bracelet features 20 natural pear-cut emeralds with a total weight of approximately 3.7 carats, set in luminous 18K yellow gold. Each vivid green gemstone measur...
Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
John Hardy Sterling Silver Box Chain Double Wrap Blue Stone Chain Link Bracelet
By John Hardy
Located in Baltimore, MD
John Hardy Sterling Silver Box Chain Double Wrap Blue Stone Chain Link Bracelet Metal: Sterling silver 925 Gemstones: Lapis lazuli, sodalite & hematite beads Width: 6mm Length: (7.5...
Sterling Silver
Chrome Hearts Scroll Cable Oval Link 22 Karat Gold Chain Bracelet
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: Authentic Chrome Hearts Paper Chain bracelet crafted in gold and featuring the brand’s iconic scroll and cable link design elements. Renowned for its bold gothic-inspire...
Diamond, Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Bracelet Flat Woven & Braided 2 Strands, in Herringbone Pattern by Indaerre
Located in valatie, NY
14K Yellow Gold Bracelet, Flat Woven and Braided with 2 Strands in a Herringbone Pattern by "Indaerre" a jewelry manufacturer based in Vicenza, Italy. UNOAERRE (often referred to as ...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$580Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra Unisex Midnight Sapphire Cabochon Center 925 Silver Chain Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This bracelet contains sapphires weighing 29.25 carats, bezel set in 925 sterling silver. The 15 x 20 mm oval shaped stone is crafted in a cabochon cut, highlighting its deep blue to...
Sapphire, Silver, Sterling Silver
$2,683Sale Price / item|20% Off
14k Yellow Gold Heart Pink Gemstone Diamond Chain Bracelet
Located in Deira, Dubai
14k Yellow Gold Heart Pink Gemstone Diamond Chain Bracelet features heart cut pink gemstone and round cut diamond chain making a minimalist bracelet. Diamonds are believed to enhanc...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$3,988 / item
0.27ct Diamond 14K Yellow Gold Chain Bracelet
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This Diamond Link Chain Bracelet is crafted in polished 14K yellow gold and features a bold, modern link design with a refined diamond-accent centerpiece. The elongated gold links cr...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$920Sale Price|20% Off
Oval Cut Emerald and Halo Diamond Chain Bracelet in 14K Yellow Gold Jewelry
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This elegant bracelet showcases an oval-cut natural emerald weighing 0.31 carats, encircled by a halo of round brilliant-cut diamonds totaling about 0.05 carats. Each stone is prong-...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Gold Mid-Century Thick Snake Chain Bracelet
Located in Venice, CA
This 14k gold snake chain has a beautiful fluid quality and mesmerizing pattern within the links. It is a luxurious weight, with a sleek and slinky feel. Because the chain is thick, ...
Gold, 14k Gold
$480Sale Price|20% Off
Elegant 14K Yellow Gold Oval Cut Blue Sapphire & Diamond Halo Chain Bracelet
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This bracelet features a 0.46 CT oval-cut blue sapphire, beautifully encircled by a halo of round brilliant- cut diamonds totaling 0.05 ct. Set in 14K yellow gold, the stones are sec...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
22ct Gold, Platinum and 0.23ct Diamond Curb Bracelet
Located in Midhurst, GB
Exceptionally heavy curb link bracelet, with solid 22ct gold links and a platinum box clasp set with a round brilliant cut diamond. This exceptional bracelet can easily be fitted to...
Diamond, Gold, 22k Gold, Platinum
Cartier Panthère de Cartier 18K Yellow Gold Chain Bracelet
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
Circa unknown. This Cartier bracelet embodies timeless elegance with its refined design. Crafted in 18k yellow gold, it features the iconic Panthère de Cartier motif, a symbol of gr...
Emerald, Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$960Sale Price|20% Off
Minimalist 14K Solid Yellow Gold Heart-Shaped Natural Ruby Dainty Chain Bracelet
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This elegant bracelet showcases a single heart-shaped natural ruby weighing 0.41 carats, measuring approximately 4.1 x 4.4 mm, set in 14k gold with a classic three-prong solitaire se...
Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Chrome Hearts Cross Symbol Diamond 22 Karat Gold Bracelet
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: Authentic Chrome Hearts bracelet crafted in luxurious 22K yellow gold and accented with brilliant natural diamonds throughout. Featuring the brand’s iconic cross symbol ...
Diamond, Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
John Hardy Classic 11mm Sterling Silver Classic Chain Bracelet
By John Hardy
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine sterling silver bracelet. By John Hardy. With a push button clasp closure. From the John Hardy Classic Chain collection. In a thick 11mm size. Simply a wonderful bracele...
Sterling Silver
Handcrafted Solid Yellow Gold Man Chain Bracelet Made in Italy
Located in Rome, IT
Solid 14k yellow gold man link bracelet Handmade in Italy by Rossella Ugolini. Weight 30 gr., Length: 8 in (20cm). Polished. Other lengths are available upon request. Its substantia...
Yellow Gold, Gold, 14k Gold
$448Sale Price / item|20% Off
Minimalist 14K Solid White Gold Bar-style Row Diamonds Chain Bracelet for Women
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Delicate yet dazzling, this bar bracelet is crafted in 14K white gold and adorned with shimmering diamonds totaling 0.135 carats. The sleek horizontal bar design adds a modern, minim...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Minimalist Stackable Multi Sapphire Chain Bracelet for Her in 18k Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This Minimalist Stackable Multi Sapphire Chain Bracelet in 18K gold showcases endlessly sparkling natural multi sapphire, weighing 7.22 carats.. It measures 7 inches long in length. ...
Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Dog Chain Link Bracelet & Heart Pendant
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine Tiffany & Co. sterling silver bracelet. With slightly oval links and a heart-shaped pendant charm. The charm is not engraved. Great Tiffany design! Date: 20th Century Ove...
Sterling Silver
$3,689 / item
1.76 Carat ERS Chain Bracelet in 18K Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Bracelets are worn to enhance the look. Women love to look good. It is common to see a woman rocking a lovely gold bracelet on her wrist. A gold gemstone bracelet is the ultimate sta...
Emerald, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$479Sale Price / item|20% Off
Minimalist Pear Cut Multi Sapphire Chain Bracelet in 18k Solid Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This Minimalist Pear Cut Sapphire Chain Bracelet in 18K Gold showcases 5 endlessly sparkling natural multi sapphire, weighing 2.98 carats. It measures 7.25 inches long in length. Sa...
Green Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, Yellow Gold, 1...
$960Sale Price / item|20% Off
14k Yellow Gold Curb Link Chain Bracelet with Solitaire Emerald & Halo Diamond
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Elevate your style with this exquisite 14k yellow gold bracelet, featuring a vibrant 0.79-carat emerald-cut emerald framed by a sparkling halo of 0.13 carats of brilliant round diamo...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,820Sale Price / item|20% Off
Minimal Natural Ruby Diamond Chain Bracelet in 18k Solid Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This Minimal Natural Ruby Diamond Chain Bracelet in 18K gold showcases 0.32 carats endlessly sparkling natural ruby and 0.05 carats of diamond. It measures 7 inches long in length. ...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
H. Stern Gold Bracelet with Diamonds
By H. Stern
Located in Darnestown, MD
Delicate mesh chain bracelet by H. Stern. The bracelet has 5 rows of tiny interwoven circles creating a delicate mesh effect. Nine small round diamonds add a hint of bling. The brace...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Lumina Hand Chain with 14k Gold-Filled Chain & Yellow with Crystal Teardrop
Located in New York, NY
A delicate yet striking hand chain from the Lumina collection, crafted in 14k gold-filled chain and featuring a citrine yellow gemstone paired with a faceted crystal teardrop. The ch...
14k Gold, Gold-filled
$15,000
Cartier Gold Links Bracelet
By Cartier
Located in Darnestown, MD
Cartier bracelet with intricate 18 karat gold links. The links create a three dimensional design of ovals and figure eights. The bracelet measures 13/16" wide and 7 3/4" long. It ha...
Gold, 18k Gold
$960Sale Price / item|20% Off
Natural Uncut Diamond Bezel Set Station Bracelet, 1.68 Carat in 18K Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This station bracelet showcases 1.68 carats of natural uncut diamonds, set in 18K yellow gold. Each beautifully secured in bezel settings that highlight the organic beauty of every s...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14 Karat Yellow Gold Jasseron Link Bracelet
Located in Arnhem, NL
A vintage jasseron link/chain bracelet crafted from 14 karat yellow gold. The bracelet closes with a lobster claw clasp. The clasp closes tightly and it is fully functional. The clo...
Yellow Gold
$560Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Blue Agate Bracelet, Modern Design, Unisex, 7.25"
Located in New York, NY
Stunning 14K Yellow Gold Blue Agate Bracelet Add a touch of elegance to your jewelry collection with this stunning 14K yellow gold blue agate bracelet. The bracelet features a beaut...
Agate, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Charles Krypell Sterling Silver Multi-Strand Chain Link Bracelet
Located in Baltimore, MD
Charles Krypell Sterling Silver Multi-Strand Chain Link Bracelet Metal: Sterling silver 925 Weight: 39.5 grams Length: 7 inches Width: 1 inch TD F35002132
Silver, Sterling Silver
$5,500Sale Price / item|20% Off
Baguette Diamond Charm Bracelet in 18K White Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This Baguette Diamond Charm Bracelet in 18K gold showcases sparkling natural diamonds, weighing 0.94 carats. April birthstone diamond brings love, fame, success and prosperity. Desi...
Diamond, White Gold, Gold, 18k Gold