Contemporary jewelry is inextricably linked with the moment in which it is created, frequently reflecting current social, cultural and political issues such as environmental consciousness, identity and sustainability. It’s informed by fashion trends, from the chokers of the 1990s to the large chain necklaces of the early 2000s.
Jewelry is one of the oldest forms of adornment. Lockets made of silver or gold have been treasured gifts for hundreds of years, for example, and charm bracelets, which have existed since prehistoric times, didn’t become especially popular until the 19th-century reign of Queen Victoria. For many centuries, fine jewelry was used primarily to express wealth or status through lavish materials. Then, in the 1960s, a concept known as the “critique of preciousness” emerged, with jewelers creating pieces that did not get their value from gemstones or precious metals. Instead, it was the jeweler’s artistic vision that was prized and elevated.
This shift still informs Contemporary jewelry being made by artists today. Whether they are using cheap, found materials and working with provocative geometric shapes or seeking out the rarest stones, they are imbuing their work with meaning through their skills, techniques and ideas. Innovative designers such as Elsa Peretti, who popularized sculptural sterling-silver jewelry for Tiffany & Co., and David Yurman, who twisted metal into the simple yet striking Cable bracelet, have also influenced the direction of Contemporary jewelry’s forms and aesthetics.
Meanwhile, technological advancements like metal alloys and laser engraving have led to new possibilities in jewelry design. Now, edgy makers and brands as well as minimalist designers are pushing Contemporary jewelry forward into the 21st century.
Find a collection of Contemporary rings, earrings, necklaces and other jewelry on 1stDibs.
David Yurman 18k Yellow Gold Oval Link Bracelet - Great for Charms
By David Yurman
Located in Lexington, KY
This beautiful bracelet was made by David Yurman in 18k yellow gold. The bracelet is made of oval shaped links that arranged in an interchanging pattern; smooth polished links and li...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K Yellow Gold Small Cornicello Italian Horn Charm #25659
Located in Washington Depot, CT
18K Yellow Gold Small Cornicello Charm - Crafted in luxurious 18K yellow gold, this elegant Cornicello charm symbolizes protection, good fortune, and prosperity. Its sleek, polished...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Betony Vernon "Mantra Kit" Bracelet and Necklace Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
The "Mantra Kit" Bracelet and Necklace is an original design by Betony Vernon made in 2018 and handcrafted in lost wax elements and a rolo chain. The "Mantra Kit" contains two rolo c...
Sterling Silver
Black Enamel Charm Bracelet Emerald Star Bangle Celestial Orb
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Black Enamel Charm Bracelet Emerald Star Bangle Celestial Orb Pendant Twisted Braided Bangle Designer: J DAUPHIN The Emerald Star Bangle is a fine twisted rope band in brass with 1...
Emerald, 14k Gold, Gold Plate, Brass, Enamel
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Wrist Cuff Large Set" Bracelet Pair with link Sterling 925
Located in Rome, IT
The Betony Vernon's signature "O'Ring Wrist Cuff Set", composed of 2 cuffs and removable bond-link, was originally designed in 1992. It is manufactured in sterling silver sheet metal...
Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "O-Ring Cuff Medium" Bracelet Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
The "O-Ring Cuff Medium" Bracelet was designed by Betony Vernon in 1992 and manufactured in lost wax elements. Paradise Found collectors have appreciated the "O-Ring" collection over...
Sterling Silver
14K Yellow Gold Articulated Hope Chest with Doll Charm #26265
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Articulated Hope Chest with Doll Charm Celebrate cherished memories and the promise of a bright future with this charming 14K yellow gold hope chest with a doll insi...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Sunglasses Charm #26112
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Sunglasses Charm - Add a stylish touch to your collection with this 14K yellow gold sunglasses charm. Featuring a playful, polished design, it’s the perfect accessor...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Tea Pot Charm #25620
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Tea Pot Charm - Celebrate the charm of afternoon tea with this 14K yellow gold teapot charm. Beautifully crafted with classic details, this elegant piece is perfect ...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Articulating German Shepard Dog Charm #26267
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Articulating German Shepard Dog Charm Celebrate a beloved companion with this playful 14K Yellow Gold Articulating German Shepard Dog Charm. Crafted in genuine 14K y...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels Onyx Vintage Alhambra 5 motif bracelet
Located in London, England
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra bracelet, 5 motifs onyx in 18K yellow gold. Comes in its VCA pouch and the cleaning receipt. One of the onyx stones has a faded mark not noticeab...
Onyx, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Open Flower Charm Bracelet #26006
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Open Flower Charm Bracelet- This lovely bracelet by Tiffany & Co. features a sculptural openwork flower charm suspended for a classic link bracelet. A ...
Sterling Silver
Walt Disney 14K Yellow Gold Minnie Mouse Charm #25850
By Walt Disney
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Disney 14K Yellow Minnie Mouse Charm Celebrate timeless charm and playful style with this 14K Yellow Gold Minnie Mouse Charm. Beautifully crafted from genuine 14K yellow gold, this ...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier: Unique Gold Bracelet with Antique Seal Fobs, Paris c. 1985
By Cartier
Located in Berlin, DE
Cartier & Coats of Arms Unique Gold Bracelet by Cartier with Antique Seal Fobs, Paris c. 1985 The 19th century loved seals and coats of arms. Hardly a gentleman of rank and stat...
Amethyst, Carnelian, Chalcedony, Citrine, Rock Crystal, 14k Gold, 18k Go...
14K Yellow Gold Whistle Charm #25555
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Whistle Charm Celebrate leadership, sportsmanship, or a passion for coaching with this beautifully crafted 14K Yellow Gold Whistle Charm. Made from 14-karat yellow g...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Multi-Charm Bracelet w/Pouch #24521
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Multi-Charm Bracelet- This lovely sterling silver charm bracelet features bold round links adorned with five whimsical charms: the iconic Tiffany h...
Sterling Silver
14K Yellow Gold Frog Charm #26189
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Frog Charm Add a touch of charm and whimsy to your jewelry collection with this delightful 14K Yellow Gold Frog Charm. Crafted in genuine 14K yellow gold, this playf...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Sterling Silver 5 Charm Bracelet 7.25"
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Tiffany & Co. Designer: Elsa Peretti Style: 5 Charm Link Bracelet Material: Sterling Silver Weight: 16.8 grams Hallmarks: Stamped Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti 925 Bracelet Lengt...
Sterling Silver
14K Yellow Gold Beach Bucket and Shovel Charm #26117
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Beach Bucket and Shovel Charm - Capture the carefree spirit of summer with this 14K yellow gold beach bucket and shovel charm. Featuring a playful, detailed design, ...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Betony Vernon "O-Ring Cuff Mini" Bracelet Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
The "O-Ring Cuff Medium" Bracelet was designed by Betony Vernon in 1992 and manufactured in lost wax elements. Paradise Found collectors have appreciated the "O-Ring" collection over...
Sterling Silver
Van Cleef and Arpels 6 Motif Sweet Alhambra Bracelet in Rose Gold
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Alhambra 6-Motif Bracelet is a timeless emblem of luck, elegance, and legendary French craftsmanship, beautifully rendered in luxurious ...
Rose Gold
14K Yellow Gold Articulating Mailbox Charm #25554
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Articulating Mailbox Charm Add a unique touch to your jewelry collection with this charming 14K Yellow Gold Mailbox Charm. Expertly crafted from 14-karat yellow gold...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Betony Vernon "Mantra Bracelet" Sterling Silver 925 Bracelet
Located in Rome, IT
The "Mantra Bracelet" is an original design by Betony Vernon made in 2018 and handcrafted in lost wax elements and a rolo chain. The "Mantra Bracelet" chain follows a pendant that can contain your most valuable wishes. The jewel is accompanied with a miniature booklet composed of 50 tear-off sheets for your personal mantras. The "Mantra Bracelet" is designed to help make your dreams come to fruition. The act of writing down your desires is proven to reinforce the likelihood of their manifestation. Imagine what happens if you carry them with you in all actions! Available as a kit, the "Mantra Bracelet" can be combined with the "Mantra Necklace...
Sterling Silver
14K Yellow Gold Hourglass Charm #25795
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Hourglass Charm - A beautifully crafted 14K yellow gold hourglass charm with a polished finish, symbolizing the passage of time and life's precious moments. A timele...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Lucky Alhambra 18k Yellow Gold 4 Motif Bracelet w/Paper 7.5"
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Van Cleef & Arpels Collection: Lucky Alhambra Material: 18k Yellow Gold Gemstones: Tiger’s eye, carnelian, malachite and mother of pearl Bracelet Length: Approximately 7.5...
Carnelian, Malachite, Pearl, Tiger's Eye, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Penguins & Igloo Charm #25630
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Penguin & Igloo Charm - Celebrate the charm of the Arctic with this 14K yellow gold 2 penguins & igloo charm. Beautifully crafted with delightful details, this whims...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14 Karat Yellow Gold World Globe Pendant #24238
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14 Karat Yellow Gold World Globe Pendant- This 14K yellow gold globe pendant showcases clean craftsmanship with symbolic detail, offering a refined statement piece that represents t...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels Alhambra bracelet Carnelian and guilloché
Located in London, England
Van Cleef and Arpels Vintage Alhambra bracelet, 5 motifs, 2 guilloché 18K rose gold, 3 carnelian. Carnelian is a variety of chalcedony that belongs to the microcrystalline quartz f...
Carnelian, 18k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Alhambra Malachite Diamond 18k Yellow Gold Bracelet w/Paper
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Van Cleef & Arpels Collection: Alhambra Material: 18k Yellow Gold Gemstones: Malachite and diamonds Diamonds: 24 diamonds, approximately 0.96 carat total weight Malachite...
Diamond, Malachite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Clarissa Bronfman "Metamorphosis" 14k Gold Diamond Pearl Symbol Tree Necklace
Located in New York, NY
Our signature Symbol Tree Necklaces are each unique and made to be versatile. Attaches to 17" Brown Leather Cord with Silver Auto Lock Clasp (included) so charms cascade down - top a...
Agate, Diamond, Emerald, Malachite, Pearl, Freshwater Pearl, Tiger's Eye...
14 Karat Yellow Gold Christmas Tree Charm #23172
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14k Yellow Gold Christmas Tree Charm- This 14 karat yellow gold Christmas tree charm sparkles with festive spirit, a joyful piece that adds holiday cheer and timeless shine to any c...
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
10K Yellow Gold Eiffel Tower Charm #23980
Located in Washington Depot, CT
10K Yellow Gold Eiffel Tower Charm This finely detailed 10k gold Eiffel Tower charm captures the iconic silhouette in a warm, radiant glow- perfect for adding a touch of wanderlust ...
10k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef and Arpels Sweet Alhambra Six Motif Diamond White Gold Bracelet
Located in Lisboa, PT
Van Cleef & Arpels Sweet Alhambra six-motif bracelet, crafted in 18 kt white gold and set with diamonds. An elegant interpretation of the Maison’s iconic Alhambra design, the bra...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Carnelian Onyx Hematite Charm Bracelet 1995 Rare
Located in Towson, MD
This sterling silver charm bracelet is a rare, retired design by Tiffany and Co., no longer produced and increasingly difficult to find in the secondary market. It suspends 6 polishe...
Carnelian, Hematite, Onyx, Sterling Silver
14K Yellow Gold Star of David Charm #26091
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Star of David Charm - Meaningful and timeless, this 14K yellow gold Star of David charm features the classic six-pointed symbol with a polished finish. A beautiful e...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Mad Money Charm #25838
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Mad Money Charm Showcase your ambition and celebrate prosperity with this 14K Yellow Gold Mad Money Charm. Expertly crafted from solid 14K yellow gold, this eye-catc...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Betony Vernon "Double Sphere Bracelet" Bracelet Sterling 925 in Stock
Located in Rome, IT
Betony Vernon designed the "Double Sphere Bracelet" in 1996 and manufactured in lost wax element. The Sterling Silver 925 "Double Sphere Bracelet" embo...
Sterling Silver
Heavy 14K Yellow Gold Interwoven Circular Link Charm Bracelet
Located in Westport, CT
A beautiful heavy 14K yellow gold charm bracelet featuring an intricate interwoven circular link design, composed of multiple thick, polished gold loops woven together to create a bo...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Flip Flop Charm #26114
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Flip Flop Charm - Bring a little summer style to your collection with this 14K yellow gold flip flop charm. Featuring a playful, detailed design, it’s a fun keepsake...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K Yellow Gold Pique De Jour Notre Dame Pendant #25321
Located in Washington Depot, CT
18K Yellow Gold Pique De Jour Notre Dame Pendant A beautifully detailed Pique de Jour Notre Dame pendant inspired by the iconic cathedral’s timeless architecture and rich heritage. ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Old Woman Who Lived In a Shoe Enameled Charm
Located in Old Tappan, NJ
14K yellow gold "old woman who live in a shoe" charm with multi color enamel. The charm opens and closes revealing the colorful characters.
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Gold Snowboarder Snowman Australian Pearl Pendant Necklace or Charm
Located in Bussolengo, Verona
18 Karat Gold Skier Snowman Black Diamond Pearl Pin Brooch It's time to make a snowman! I wanted to create for the winter time a pendant with an Australian pearl. Its special shape inspired me to create a snowman with snowboard. He wears a gold cap and a pair of sunglasses in white gold. All the particulars are in yellow gold apart for the carrot...
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold
14K Yellow Gold Royal Guard Inside Sentry Box Articulating Charm #26271
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Royal Guard Mechanical Charm Add a touch of British-inspired charm and intricate craftsmanship to your collection with this 14K Yellow Gold Royal Guard Mechanical Ch...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Diamond Star Bangle Bracelet White Black Diamond Gold Black Enamel Celestial
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Diamond Star Bangle Bracelet White Black Diamond Gold Black Enamel Celestial Designer: J DAUPHIN Diamond star bangle in 14k gold plated brass with black enamel by J Dauphin, set wi...
Black Diamond, White Diamond, Diamond, Enamel, Brass, Gold Plate, 14k Gold
Virgin Mary Cuff Bracelet Sterling Silver Gold Madonna Relief Ruby Halo
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Virgin Mary Cuff Bracelet Sterling Silver Gold Madonna Relief Ruby Halo Designer: J DAUPHIN The Virgin Mary Cuff Bracelet is handcrafted in solid .925 sterling silver and 14k gold-...
Ruby, Gold Plate, Silver, Sterling Silver, Brass, Mixed Metal
$10,500Sale Price|30% Off
9.49 Carats Blue Sapphire Diamond Bangle Bracelet in 18 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Introducing our exquisite 18 karat yellow gold cuff bracelet, featuring 9 oval-shaped blue sapphires weighing a total of 9.49 carats, each surrounded by a stunning diamond halo. With...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel
14K Yellow Gold Shovel Charm #26194
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Shovel Charm This 14K Yellow Gold Shovel Charm is a miniature, polished garden tool pendant made from durable 14-karat yellow gold. Perfect for the gardener to add t...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
10K Yellow Gold and Enamel Zebra Stripe Purse Charm #25565
Located in Washington Depot, CT
10K Yellow Gold and Enamel Zebra Stripe Purse Charm Add a playful touch of style to your jewelry collection with this unique 10K Yellow Gold & Enamel Zebra Stripe Purse Charm. Exper...
10k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Tennis Raquet and Ball Charm #24915
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Tennis Charm A delicate 14K yellow gold tennis racket charm featuring a lustrous pearl ball centered on the strings. This elegant piece captures the spirit of the ga...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Betony Vernon "Three Button Cuff" Bracelet Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
Located in Rome, IT
Betony Vernon designed the "Three Button Cuff" in 1996 and the empowering piece remains a favorite of BV collectors. Hand-crafted in Sterling Silver 925 sheet metal with three rivete...
Sterling Silver
Pomellato 18K Gold Bracelet with Ball Charm Pendant
By Pomellato
Located in Henderson, NV
Pomellato 18K white and yellow gold rolo bracelet with a two-tone ball charm pendant. Bracelet measurements: Length: 7.5 inches Width: 3.9 mm Ball m...
Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
18K Yellow Gold Italy Charm #25385
Located in Washington Depot, CT
18K Yellow Gold Italy Charm A charming tribute to Italian heritage and style, this Italy charm adds a touch of wanderlust to any collection. Crafted in 18K yellow gold, it features ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Elsa Peretti Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Letter U Pendant Necklace
By Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine Tiffany & Co. pendant for a necklace. Designed by Elsa Peretti. In sterling silver. In the form of the letter 'u'. Simply great Tiffany design! Date: Late 20th Centu...
Sterling Silver
10K Yellow Gold Capricorn Zodiac Charm #26108
Located in Washington Depot, CT
10K Yellow Gold Capricorn Zodiac Charm- Add a touch of magic to your collection with this 10K yellow gold capricorn zodiac charm. Featuring a whimsical design and polished gold fini...
10k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K Yellow Gold Fleur de Lis Charm #25328
Located in Washington Depot, CT
18K Yellow Gold Fleur de Lis Charm- An elegant 18K yellow gold Fleur de Lis charm featuring the iconic lily design long associated with heritage, nobility, and refinement. With its ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Heart Pendant Charm #25656
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Heart Charm Pendant- This elegant Tiffany & Co. heart charm is crafted in polished sterling silver and reflects the house's signature style - simple, t...
Sterling Silver
Garland Collection Diamond and Gold Capricorn Zodiac Medallion
Located in New York, NY
Garland Collection's vintage inspired zodiac medallions are custom and handmade to order in New York City by our team of master jewelers. A polished r...
Diamond, Gold
Betony Vernon "O-Ring Wrist Cuff Large" Bracelet Sterling 925 in Stock
Located in Rome, IT
Betony Vernon's "O-Ring Wrist Cuff Large" was designed in 1992 and manufactured in lost wax element. The classic Sterling Silver 925 "O-Ring Wrist Cuff Large" won’t date in your wardrobe or in the boudoir. Discover the exciting and arousing possibilities it provides especially when worn with Attachments or Pendants. The ball-and-ring mechanism...
Sterling Silver
14K Yellow Gold Dog and Milk Bone Charm Bracelet #25535
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Dog & Milk Bone Charm Bracelet - Show your love for man's best friend with this 14K yellow gold dog & Milk Bone charm bracelet. Crafted from genuine 14K yellow gold,...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Sidra Italy Carnelian & Onyx Charm Bauble Bracelet in Tri-Tone 18 Karat Gold
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This magnificent Sidra Italy red carnelian and black onyx charm bracelet is a bold and opulent statement piece that showcases the extraordinary richness of tri-tone 18 Karat gold in ...
Carnelian, Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold