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.
Kabana Spiny Oyster Mother Of Pearl Diamond 14k Yellow Gold Link Bracelet
By Kabana
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Crafted with an eye for luxury and a touch for elegance, this Kabana bracelet marries the natural allure of spiny oyster with the sparkle of mother-of-pearl and diamonds. Highlighted...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Ming's Hawaii White Jade and Hawaiian Quilt Design 14 Karat Yellow Gold Bracelet
Located in Honolulu, HI
Beautiful vintage Ming's Hawaii white jade sectional bracelet in 14k yellow gold. The Bracelet features 5 cabochon navette shape white jade pieces seperated by a square link with a raised hawaiian quilt...
Jade, 14k Gold
1.38 Carat Round Brilliant Cut White Diamond Yellow Diamond Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 1.38-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by yellow diamond accents for...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
Trabert & Hoeffer Mauboussin 1950s Diamond Ruby Platinum Vintage Ribbon Bracelet
By Trabert & Hoeffer Mauboussin
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Comprised of hinged links prong, bead, and channel set with rubies and diamonds as scrolling ribbon motifs with buckle hinges Featuring three stations tab set with emerald cut diamon...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
$784Sale Price|20% Off
Gold Tone Sterling Silver Curb Link Bracelet, 28.26g, 8 Inch, Italy
Located in New York, NY
Stamped 925 Italy, this sophisticated bracelet combines the timeless appeal of Italian craftsmanship with modern-day versatility. Weighing approximately 28.26 grams and measuring 8 i...
Gold, Gold Plate, Silver, Sterling Silver
Elegance Diamond 14K (or 18k upon request) Yellow Gold Link Bracelet
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The Elegance Diamond 14K Yellow Gold Link Bracelet is a sophisticated blend of modern design and classic luxury. Crafted from 14K yellow gold, this bracelet weighs 3.74 grams and fea...
14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Oxidized Silver Handmade "Chill Link" Bracelet with 18K White Gold Diamond Link
By Lika Behar
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
This handcrafted “Chill Link” bracelet by Lika Behar blends relaxed sophistication with striking contrast. Formed in richly oxidized silver, the piece features an eye-catching 18K wh...
Diamond, 22k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
10mm Classic Panther Link Bracelet 14kt 12448*
By Unbranded
Located in New York, NY
10mm Classic Panther Link Bracelet Classic Staggered Design 14.7 grams 14kt yellow gold
14k Gold
6.5 Ct Emerald Diamond Bridal Bracelet 14K Gold Zambian Emerald Bracelet
Located in Jaipur, IN
14K Yellow Gold Natural Zambian Emerald and Diamond Designer Bracelet – 6.50 Carat Emerald Link Bracelet Gracefully designed with flowing curves inspired by nature, this 14K Yellow ...
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Malachite Diamond 14K (or 18k upon request) Yellow Gold Clasp Link Bracelet
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Exuding a sense of calm sophistication, the Malachite Diamond 14K Yellow Gold Toggle Clasp Link Bracelet is crafted from radiant 14K gold. Adorned with natural diamonds that sparkle ...
14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
18K White Gold Diamond and Sapphire Clover Bracelet
Located in Great Neck, NY
This bracelet is made of 18K white gold and and weighs 13.7 grams. It is designed in a clover style, giving it a graceful and timeless look. The gold is smooth and strong, making the...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Emerald and Diamond Tennis Bracelet in 14k Yellow Gold
Located in Honolulu, HI
Bracelet Specification: Total Weight: 13.4 Grams Bracelet Width: 5.6 mm Bracelet Length: 7 in Diamonds: 64 round brilliant diamonds Diamond Color: G Diamond Clarity: SI1-SI2 D...
Diamond, Emerald, Yellow Gold, Gold, 14k Gold
0.45 Carat Diamond Paperclip-Link Bracelet 14K White and Yellow Gold
Located in New York, NY
Introducing the sleek and modern paperclip-link bracelet, a sophisticated piece crafted from 14K white and yellow gold. This exquisite bracelet is adorned with shimmering pavé white ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Textured Curbchain Link Bracelet with Diamonds
Located in Darnestown, MD
Elegant and unusual textured curbchain link bracelet with diamonds. The bracelet has a total diamond weight of approximately 3.5 carats; diamonds are VVS. Each link is 3/4 " wide; length is 7 inches. The bracelet was originally retailed by Scully and Scully.
Diamond, 18k Gold
11.95 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This estate bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on an 11.95-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by diamond accents f...
Diamond, 18k Gold
David Webb 18k Yellow Gold Rock Crystal and Lapis Lazuli Bracelet
By David Webb
Located in New York, NY
The David Webb 18k yellow gold bracelet is a striking piece of jewelry that showcases the brand's expertise in design and craftsmanship. Featuring a unique combination of materials, ...
Crystal, Lapis Lazuli, Rock Crystal, Yellow Gold
Platinum and 18 Carat Yellow Gold Franco Link Chain Bracelet
Located in London, GB
Expertly crafted, this fantastic link bracelet seamlessly combines the classic beauty of platinum with the rich colour of 18 carat yellow gold. A must have piece for every jewellery ...
Gold, Platinum, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Panetta Art Deco Diamante Bracelet Circa 1960s
By Panetta
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Panetta Art Deco Diamante Bracelet Circa 1960s. It is composed of links of pavé and small round stones surrounding the links. There is a slight variation of lighter and sligh...
Mixed Metal
10K Yellow Gold Plated Sterling Silver 1.0ct Diamond Bezel Style Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Adorn your wrist with the dazzling sparkle of diamonds. Crafted with care and precision, this bracelet is a true treasure. Plated with 10K yellow gold, the .925 sterling silver base ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Sterling Silver, 10k Gold, Gold Plate, Yellow Gold
Natural 9.76 Carat SI/H Multi Shape Diamond Tennis Bracelet 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
Natural 9.76 Carat SI/H Multi Shape Diamond Tennis Bracelet 18 Karat White Gold The bracelet features a stunning sequence of pear, marquise diamonds, each meticulously set to create ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold
Anton Michelsen, Denmark. Modernist sterling silver bracelet with circular links
Located in bronshoj, DK
Anton Michelsen sterling silver bracelet. Modernist sterling silver bracelet with circular links in a simple and geometric form. Danish silversmith work by Anton Michelsen, executed ...
Sterling Silver
14 Karat Yellow Gold Textured Oversize Link Bracelet Made In Italy 11.23 Grams
Located in New York, NY
Super chic 14 Karat Yellow Gold Textured Oversize Link Bracelet weighing 11.23 Grams. he bracelet measures 6.5 " but has a few extra small link to open ...
Gold, Yellow Gold
10K Yellow Gold Diamond Accent "A" Initial Charm and Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Immerse yourself in the understated elegance of this 10K yellow gold bracelet, for an enrapturing shimmer that captures the eye. Central to its delicate cable chain design is a bewit...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 10k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Sterling Silver Gold Tone Bracelet with Blue Diamante Stones
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Sterling Gold Tone Link Bracelet with Blue Diamante Stones Circa 1990s. I also have the matching dangling earrings, which will be listed on the site. When I bought this from ...
Sterling Silver
Carrera y Carrera Vintage Panther Diamond Bracelet 18K Yellow Gold Spain 1980s
Located in Lisbon, PT
Carrera y Carrera Vintage Panther Diamond Bracelet, 18 Karat Yellow Gold, Spain, circa 1980s. An exceptional vintage panther bracelet by the celebrated Spanish house Carrera y Carre...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1980s 14 Karat Yellow Gold Charm Link Bracelet
Located in Boston, MA
Vintage 1980's 14K Yellow Gold Charm Link Bracelet - The modern design link bracelet can be worn with or without charms. The bracelet measures...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Cameo 9 Carat Gold Bracelet
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
Each panel link on this cameo bracelet has a different face. Each section is linked by two delicate chains and all metal work is modelled in 9ct gold. Hallmarked Birmingham 1991. L...
Gold
3.99 Carat Round Brilliant Cut White Diamond Yellow Diamond Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This statement bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on vivid yellow diamond accents totaling 6.8 carats in a rich cushion cut, prized for their warm, saturated co...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
Ladies Bracelet, Bangle in 18 Karat Gold, Set with Citrines and 41 Diamonds
Located in Berlin, DE
Modern ladies bracelet, in 18 Karat gold, set with citrines and 41 diamonds. The bracelet is set with 41 round diamonds, Top Wesselton, VVS1 with a total weight of about 2.5 carat a...
Citrine, Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. 1996 Sterling Silver Heavy Bamboo Link Bracelet 63g
Located in Miami, FL
A substantial and sculptural bracelet by Tiffany & Co., dated 1996. Crafted in sterling silver, the design is composed of articulated links modeled in an organic bamboo or branch...
Sterling Silver
3.14 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Emerald Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This statement bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 3.14-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by emerald accents ...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
.925 Sterling Silver 1.0 cttw Round Diamond Cluster Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Enjoy this charming diamond bracelet that sparkles with with round brilliant cut diamonds set in circular links. Crafted in cool sterling silver this elegant design adds a touch of s...
Diamond, White Diamond, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
4.05 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Emerald Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This estate bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 4.05-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by emerald accents for...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
$6,416Sale Price / item|20% Off
Natural 3.03 Ct Mixed Cut Diamond with 18K Yellow Gold Link Bracelet
Located in Deira, AE
Crafted to celebrate refined elegance, this 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Tennis Bracelet showcases a contemporary arrangement of brilliant natural diamonds in a sleek, minimalist silhouet...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Gerda Lynggaarde Resin Link Cuff Bracelet
Located in North Miami, FL
This link bracelet that has a dark gold wash paint and a black interior on the back over resin is Danish and by Gerda Lynggaarde. It fits snugly on the wrist and makes a great fashio...
Bracciale in Oro Rosa – Collezione Bonbon *
Located in Milano, Lombardia
Dal design iconico e contemporaneo, questo bracciale della Collezione Bonbon si distingue per la sua maglia importante dalle forme morbide e arrotondate, cifra stilistica della colle...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Handmade 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Pave Link Bracelet, 1.72 Carats
By FERRUCCI
Located in New York, NY
Oval paper clip, with flat-square profile links, solid 18k Yellow gold link bracelet, 7 inches long, with alternatey diamond pave' set links with G color, VS clarity round, brilliant...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2.46 Carats Multi Sapphire & Diamonds Chain Bracelet
By GEM PLAZA
Located in Jaipur, Rajasthan
A very beautiful and dainty Multi Sapphire Chain Bracelet let in 18K Rose Gold & Diamonds. The weight of the Multi Sapphires is 2.46 ...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Vintage Art Deco 89 Red and Clear Diamante Bracelet, 1980s
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Art Deco 89 Red and Diamante Bracelet Circa 1980s. This bracelet features a red channel-set diamond with pavé-set clear diamante on either end, and...
Mixed Metal
12.61 Carat Ruby and Diamond Bracelet Statement Fine Jewelry 18K White Gold
Located in New York, NY
12.61 Carat Ruby and Diamond Bracelet Statement Fine Jewelry 18K White Gold Ruby Weight: 12.61 carats Diamond Weight: 1.64 carats This striking 18K white gold bracelet features a v...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
18ct White Gold Diamond Station Bracelet, Vintage 1970s
Located in Braintree, GB
A pretty vintage 18ct white gold diamond station bracelet, set with seven round brilliant-cut diamonds spaced along a fine trace chain in the 'diamonds-by-the-yard' style. Dating to ...
White Gold
La Nouvelle Bague 18 Karat White Gold, Burgundy Enamel and Diamond Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This 18 karat white gold bracelet is designed by the world renowned Italian company La Nouvelle Bague. They are known for their exquisite craftsmanship, marrying the classic with th...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Enamel
Roberto Coin 18 Karat Yellow Gold Oval Link Chain Toggle Closure Bracelet
By Roberto Coin
Located in Baltimore, MD
Roberto Coin 18 Karat Yellow Gold Oval Link Chain Toggle Closure Bracelet Metal: 18k yellow gold Weight: 10.23 grams Width: 4.7 - 7.5mm LengthL 7.25 inches Clasp: Toggle with blue s...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Sterling Silver Jasper Bead Station Bracelet Bolo Clasp
Located in New York, NY
Experience the touch of nature’s artistry with this meticulously crafted bracelet, featuring ethereally patterned jasper beads. Each bead is a miniature canvas displaying the earthy ...
Jasper, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co. Vintage Bracelet 14k Rose & Yellow Gold Swirl Snail Shell Signed
Located in Torrance, CA
Stylish vintage Tiffany & Co bracelet crafted in 14k rose & yellow gold. 'Swirl' style links (also resembles a snail shell) alternate in rose and yellow gold. The 17mm wide links (...
14k Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Ciner Gold Tone Diamante Link Bracelet Circa 1980s
By Ciner
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Ciner Gold Tone Diamante Link Bracelet Circa 1980s. It is a classic that has been made throughout the centuries. It can be great stacked up or worn alone. It can be mixed an...
Mixed Metal
David Yurman 18k Yellow Gold & Silver Cable-Link Toggle Bracelet In Stock
By David Yurman
Located in Boca Raton, FL
David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold & Sterling Silver Toggle Bracelet Designer: David Yurman Style: Toggle Bracelet Material: 18k Yellow Gold and Sterling Silver Design Details: Cla...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver, Sterling Silver
Chanel Camellia 18k White Gold Floral Circle Charm Link Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Chanel's Camellia 18k White Gold Floral Circle Charm Link Bracelet exudes timeless elegance with its intricate design and fine craftsmanship. A statement piece with a chain style, it...
18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 18kt Yellow and White Gold French Bracelet with Diamonds
Located in Esch sur Alzette, Esch-sur-Alzette
The vintage 18kt Yellow and White Gold French Bracelet with Diamonds is a beautiful piece of jewelry that combines yellow and white gold with the added elegance of diamonds. The bracelet is made of 18-karat gold, which signifies a high level of purity in the gold alloy. It combines both yellow and white gold, which adds contrast and visual interest to the design. The bracelet has a unique design that features a combination of yellow gold and white gold. These two different gold colors create a striking contrast, with the yellow gold adding warmth and the white gold adding a sleek, modern touch. The use of both metals is often seen in vintage jewelry...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$200Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra Modern Twisted Figaro Chain 925 Sterling Silver Unisex Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Crafted from high-quality 925 sterling silver, this Silvorra bracelet features a modern twisted Figaro chain design that combines elegance with contemporary style. With a polished, s...
Silver, Sterling Silver
$17,850Sale Price|25% Off
Superb Diamond Bracelet in White Gold by Gubelin
By Gubelin
Located in Lucerne, CH
This very fine and flexible diamond bracelt by Swiss Jeweller Gübelin is part of their Madagascar line. Designed as 34 oval elements each movable and ...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
10K White Gold Diamond Accent "A" Initial Charm and Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Immerse yourself in the understated elegance of this 10K white gold bracelet, rhodium-plated for an enrapturing shimmer that captures the eye. Central to its delicate cable chain des...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 10k Gold, White Gold
Sterling Silver Blue Sapphire and Topaz Marquise Floral Art Deco Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Experience the elegance of the Jazz Age with this exquisitely crafted rhodium-plated .925 sterling silver bracelet, a masterpiece featuring rich, heat-treated dark blue sapphires and...
Sapphire, Topaz, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver Sand Bead Station Bracelet Bolo
Located in New York, NY
Immerse yourself in the understated elegance of this .925 sterling silver bracelet, where the enduring shimmer of meticulously crafted sand beads is interspersed along a sleek cord. ...
Rhodium, Sterling Silver
Vintage Grosse Germany 1967 Chunky Rope Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Grosse Germany Rope Link Bracelet Circa 1967. Double rigid links make up this bracelet, with three links going around in the middle to attach it. It looks great and would lo...
Mixed Metal
Golf Ball Bracelet 14k Yellow Gold 7" Fine Sporting Jewelry Links Stacking
Located in Torrance, CA
Distinct and stylish golf ball bracelet crafted in 14k yellow gold. Linked golf balls set upon a tee forms the distinct bracelet. The bracelet is great worn alone or layered. The...
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Sterling Silver Malachite Bead Station Bracelet with Bolo Clasp
Located in New York, NY
Envelop your wrist in the enchanting lushness of rich, verdant hues with this elegant bracelet, artfully crafted from .925 sterling silver. Each polished malachite bead, celebrated f...
Malachite, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
Certified 12.2 Carat Diamond Double Row Wedding Bracelet 14 Karat White Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
Certified 12.2 Carat Diamond Double Row Wedding Bracelet 14 Karat White Gold featuring an intricate series of mixed-shaped links in double row making a wide engagement bracelet. Diam...
Diamond, Gold, White Gold, 14k Gold
18K Gold Marina B. Triangoli Bracelet
By Marina B
Located in New York, NY
**Geometric Elegance: A Gold Cuff by Marina B** A study in modern sophistication. Crafted by Marina B in 1980s Italy, this striking cuff embodies contemporary artistry. Forged from ...
Gold, 18k Gold
4.80 Carat Diamond Cuban Link Bracelet 18 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in BEVERLY HILLS, CA
Modern diamond cuban link bracelet. 752 round brilliant diamonds, 4.80 carats total. Approximately G/H color and SI clarity. 18k yellow gold, 26.67 grams, 7 inches. Accommodated with...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold