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.
Pearl By the Yard Bracelet
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Experience the refined elegance of our By the Yard Pearl Bracelet. This exquisite piece features hand-selected pearls, meticulously spaced along a fine gold chain, creating a floatin...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Lucien Picard Gold Tone Lion Bracelet Circa 1980s
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Lucien Picard Gold Tone Lion Bracelet Circa 1980s. This is an exceptional, unusual bracelet in my collection. It is comprised of three substantial, well-made, large squares ...
Mixed Metal
Elegant Alternating Yellow Gold and Cocobolo Wood Curved Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Elegant 18kt Yellow Gold and Cocobolo Wood curved link bracelet with self-link closure. The fabulous bracelet measure 7 1/2 inches but can be made to any measurement. The gold and Mu...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
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
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
TJD 4.15 Carat Natural Brilliant Cut Diamond 18KT White Gold Link Bracelet
By TJD
Located in New York, NY
Express your sophisticated style with this gorgeous diamond frame bracelet. This diamond bracelet crafted in 18 karat white gold and studded with 66 natural brilliant cut diamond in ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, 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
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
.925 Sterling Silver 1/4 Cttw Diamond Station and S Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This exquisite bracelet intertwines timeless elegance with modern luxury, crafted in .925 sterling silver and adorned with natural diamonds. The 1/4 Cttw gleaming gems, displaying H-...
Diamond, White Diamond, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
Vintage Panetta Gold Braided Bracelet with Clear Stones, 1960s
By Panetta
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Panetta Gold Braided Bracelet with Clear Pave Stones Circa 1960s. Made in the 1960s to feel like Fine Jewelry. This is a substantial item that resembles fine jewelry. Only ...
Mixed Metal
Georges Lenfant for Van Cleef & Arpels Paris Gold "Waves" Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This is a rare, collectible model from the "optical" series manufactured ca. 1970 by the Georges Lenfant workshops for Van Cleef & Arpels. Signed examples of these bracelets are almo...
Gold, 18k Gold
$1,795Sale Price / item|20% Off
2.96 Carat Octagon Emerald Stackable Chain Bracelet in 14k Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This 2.96 Carat Octagon Emerald Stackable Chain Bracelet in 14K gold showcases 2.96 carats endlessly sparkling natural emerald. It measures 6 inches long in length. Emerald enhances...
Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Nina Ricci Gold Tone Heart Link Bracelet, Circa 1980s
By Nina Ricci
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Nina Ricci Gold Links of Heart Bracelet, Circa 1980s. The hearts are linked to each other and have a design carved all around them. This is a sturdy and well-made bracelet. I...
Mixed Metal
Chanel 18k White Gold C Link Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in Boca Raton, FL
This elegant Chanel bracelet exudes sophistication with its 18k white gold construction. The classic link design offers a timeless appeal, making it a versatile accessory for any occ...
White Gold, 18k Gold
Vintage Edouard Rambaud Gold Tone Link Bracelet with Pink Crystals, Circa 1980s
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Edouard Rambaud Gold Tone Bracelet with Pink Crystals, 1980s. This looks like small sunbursts with pink crystals. Makes you smile just looking. 7"L to 7.5" L with Additio...
Mixed Metal
$14,543Sale Price / item|20% Off
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
Van Cleef & Arpels 1960's Diamond 18K Gold Platinum Vintage Twist Bracelet
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Comprised of hinged links of textured yellow gold and platinum depicting a twist motif Platinum links feature bead set round brilliant cut diamonds Weighing 5.60 carat total - G colo...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
David Webb Yellow Gold Ruby and Diamond Textured, Scalloped Link Bracelet
By David Webb
Located in New York, NY
Exclusively from our David Webb estate collection, comes a brilliant and textured bracelet. David Webb is the quintessential American jeweler of exceedingly modern jewelry. The brace...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K White Gold Diamond and Sapphire Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
18K White Gold Diamond and Sapphire Bracelet Condition: In good condition with some minor surface wear consistent with age. Length: 7.5 inches Width: 0.75 inches wide Marking: "750" ...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
14K White Gold Vintage-Inspired Oval Blue Sapphire & Diamond Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Crafted with masterful precision, this bracelet marries the timeless allure of 14k white gold, enhanced by a radiant rhodium plating, with the vibrant charm of natural, color-treated...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
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
$1,580Sale Price|20% Off
18 Karat White Gold Diamond Alternating Hearts Bracelet
By Gregory Mikaelian & Sons, Inc.
Located in Los Angeles, CA
18 karat white gold diamond alternating Hearts bracelet, containing 60 round full cut diamonds of commercial grade weighing .65pts. measuring 7 inches.
Diamond, 18k 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
9.45 ct Natural Emerald & Diamond Bracelet in Platinum
By Hakimi's Gem
Located in Chicago, IL
This stunning bracelet is a harmonious blend of elegance and craftsmanship. Featuring 9.45 carats of 22 oval-cut green emeralds, each stone is encircled by round-cut white diamonds t...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
10K Yellow Gold Diamond Accent "E" 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
White Diamonds White Gold Semi-Rigid Link Bracelet
Located in Napoli, Campania
Elegant and unique semi-rigid link bracelet composed by 6 parts (each one 31 mm) in 18K white gold all studded with 2.68 ct of little white diamonds. Diamonds 2.68 ct Total Weight 28...
White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Round Link Bracelet 7.25 Inches
Located in University Place, WA
A distinctive Tiffany & Co. sterling silver bracelet featuring bold round links with integrated clasping functionality. Each circular link is designed to open, allowing for versa...
Sterling Silver
14K Yellow Gold Alternating Green Emerald and Diamond Station Chain Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Imbued with an air of elegant sophistication, this exquisite bracelet marries the lustrous warmth of 14K yellow gold with the verdant allure of natural oiled green emeralds and the s...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,463Sale Price / item|24% Off
14K Yellow Gold 0.16CT Diamond PAPER CLIP Link Bracelet
By Gregory Mikaelian & Sons, Inc.
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Specifications: main stone:ROUND DIAMONDS diamonds:1 PC carat total weight:approximately 0.16 CT color:f clarity:SI brand:CUSTOM MADE metal:14K YELLOW gol...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 2000's 14k Yellow Gold Italian Made Choker Necklace and Bracelet Set
Located in Boston, MA
Vintage 2000's 14K Yellow Gold Italian Made Choker Necklace and Bracelet Set - The necklace is 16 inches long and the bracelet is 7.25 inches long. The width of the links is .50 inch...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Helix Frame Black Sapphire and Sterling Silver Bracelet by John Brevard
By John Brevard
Located in Coral Gables, FL
This unique black sapphire and sterling silver bracelet is meant to evoke personal power. This limited edition piece is inspired by sacred geometries and patterns in nature. Part of ...
Sapphire, Sterling Silver, Silver
1.67 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 a 1.67-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by yellow diamond a...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
CTW 11 Natural Multicolor Sapphire Diamond Rose Gold Link Bracelet
Located in Napoli, NA
Fabulous important brand new bracelet made in solid 9 k rose gold and set with 10.7 Carats of vivid oval rose cut Natural Pink, Yellow and Blue Sapphires, weighing 0.50 carat each a...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, 10k Go...
Vintage 14K Gold Herringbone Link Diamond Bracelet
Located in Venice, CA
This beautiful 14k gold herringbone bracelet features three bezel set diamonds with a combined total carat weight of approximately .80 of a carat. The herringbone link is fluid and s...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Men’s Diamond Pavé Cuban Link Bracelet 6.5 Carats 14K White Gold
Located in Miami, FL
A luxurious men’s diamond pavé Cuban link bracelet crafted in 14 karat white gold and set throughout with approximately 6.50 carats of round brilliant-cut diamonds. The bracelet is c...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
4.73 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Emerald Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 4.73-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by emerald accents for added ...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
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
19.88 Carat Old European Cut Diamond Ruby Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This estate bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 19.88-carat diamond in an old European cut, an early brilliant style with a warm, hand-cut character. It is ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
$6,399Sale Price|20% Off
1.40 Carat Diamond Bar Link Men's Bracelet 14k Solid White Gold 26.3 g 8"
Located in New York, NY
This gorgeous bracelet features sleek bar links connected by vertical bars encrusted with round-cut diamonds in a pave setting, totaling 1.40 carats. Handcrafted from solid 14K white...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White 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
.925 Sterling Silver 1/6 Cttw Diamond X and O Bolo Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Envelop your wrist in a symphony of sparkle and symbolic embraces with this exquisite bracelet crafted from luminous .925 sterling silver, enhanced with a protective rhodium plating ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
18K Yellow Diamond Link Bracelet 2.75 Ct.
Located in Great Neck, NY
Diamond link bracelet set in 18K yellow gold. The total carat weight is 2.73. The color of the stones are F, the clarity is VS1-VS2. The bracelet measured standard 7 inches.
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Antique 21KT Gold Novelty Castle Watch Bangle
Located in Braintree, GB
An exceptionally rare antique gold bangle designed as a castle or fortified gatehouse, with the front centred by a knight’s helmet that opens to reveal a concealed watch dial beneath...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Solid Yellow Gold 18K Heavy Diamond Italy Parentesi Bracelets Luxury 8.00
Located in Great Neck, NY
Pair of 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Link Bracelets — Italian Made, Modern Design Inspired by Parentesi Motifs A bold and impeccably crafted twin set of 18K yellow gold diamond bracelets...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
14K White Gold 2.00 Cttw Baguette Diamond Vintage Style Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Immerse yourself into the splendor of yesteryears with this exquisitely crafted bracelet, a revival of vintage elegance forged in luxurious 14K white gold. Designed for the discernin...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
14K White Gold Pink Sapphire and Diamond Floral Lattice Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Envelop your wrist in the exquisite embrace of this 14K white gold bracelet, plated with rhodium to ensure an enduring gleam and augmented durability. Intricately designed with a flo...
Diamond, White Diamond, Pink Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
.925 Sterling Silver Diamond Accent 3 Piece Adjustable Bolo Bracelet Set
Located in New York, NY
Immerse yourself in the elegance of the Sterling Silver Diamond Accent 3 Piece Adjustable Bolo Bracelet Set—a symphony of design and versatility. Each bracelet, rendered in pristine ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
14 Karat Rose Gold Fancy Link Bracelet, Italian
Located in Stamford, CT
14 Karat Rose Gold 7.5 inch Fancy Link Bracelet Italian 4 grams total weight.
14k Gold
14K Yellow Gold Diamond Paperclip Bracelet
Located in Great Neck, NY
This 14K yellow gold diamond paperclip bracelet is a bold and stylish piece that blends modern design with classic sparkle. Made from polished yellow gold, it features sleek papercli...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Contemporary Flat Circle Diamond Link Bracelet in White Gold
Located in London, England
A stunning contemporary flat circle diamond link bracelet set in 14k white gold.
The bracelet features 0.20 carats of round brilliant-cut diamonds set in a r...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Italian 1960s 18 Karat Yellow Gold Pyramidal Link Bracelet
Located in Miami, FL
A unique 18k yellow gold pyramidal link bracelet made in the 1960’.s. This contemporary rich etched yellow gold bracelet featuring pyramidal links st...
Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, 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
Vintage Napier Gold Tone Three Row Link Bracelet, Circa 1960s
By Napier
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Napier Gold Tone 3 Row Bracelet Circa 1960s. One of the older Napier bracelets. There are three rows of what is like braided metal that attach...
Mixed Metal
Sterling Silver 1.0Ct Diamond Open Quatrefoil Flower Circle-Link Tennis Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and timeless, this sterling silver link bracelet features 1.0 carat total weight of round, rose cut, promo quality diamonds with 32 stones in all. The tennis bracelet feature...
Diamond, White Diamond, Sterling Silver
Roberto Coin Black Jade Collection Diamond Bracelet 18K Yellow Gold 2.55Ctw
By Roberto Coin
Located in New York, NY
This stunning Roberto Coin Black Jade Collection bracelet is crafted in 18k yellow gold. It showcases 11 links, with the center link studded with pave diamonds. The rest of the links...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold 20.00cts Chunky Diamond Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This is a stunning diamond link bracelet crafted in 14k yellow gold mounted with round-cut diamonds over solid gold links. Each diamond is a micro-round cut diamond but rest assured ...
Diamond, Yellow Gold
Diamond and Quartz Crystal Chunky Open Link Gold Bracelet Estate Fine Jewelry
Located in Montreal, QC
Simply Beautiful! Chunky Gold Vintage Bracelet Hand crafted with alternate Open Links in 18K Gold and Quartz Crystal with Diamond Spacers. Hand set with 30 round Brilliant cut Diamon...
Crystal, Diamond, Quartz, Gold, 18k Gold
10k Two-Tone Gold 1/3 Cttw Diamond Pave Set Heart S-Link 7.25" Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Embrace the allure of eternal love with this captivating two-tone gold diamond heart S-link bracelet. Exquisitely crafted in 10K two-tone gold, this enchanting piece is adorned with ...
White Diamond, Diamond, 10k Gold, Mixed Metal, Gold
2.77 Carats Blue Sapphire & Diamonds Chain Bracelet
By GEM PLAZA
Located in Jaipur, Rajasthan
A very beautiful and dainty Sapphire Chain Bracelet let in 18K Rose Gold & Diamonds. The weight of the Sapphires is 2.77 carats. The weight of the Diamonds is 0.68 carats. Brac...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Ruby and Diamond Bracelet Bracelet in Platinum.
Located in New York, NY
Ruby and Diamond Bracelet bracelet in platinum. This bracelet consists of 10 links, featuring channel set square cut rubies in the center, flanked b...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum