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.
$737Sale Price|50% Off
Gorgeous 7.53 Ct Emerald Classic Tennis Bracelet in 925 Silver Gift for Women
Located in New York, NY
This stunning bracelet features oval-cut emeralds in a beautiful vibrant green hue. With a total gemstone weight of approximately 7.53 Cts, the piece exudes natural elegance and uniq...
Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
Christian Dior Bracelet Bangle Turquoise Acrylic and Silver Dior Logos
Located in Atlanta, GA
This exquisite Christian Dior bangle bracelet features a stunning turquoise hue and three striking silver "Dior" logos. It is crafted using top-quality materials such as resin, acryl...
Tiffany & Co. 18 Karat Yellow Gold Woven Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
A striking example of Tiffany & Co.’s bold 1990s design aesthetic, this substantial woven link bracelet is crafted in richly colored 18 karat yellow gold and weighs an impressive...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Hermes Kelly 18K Rose Gold Full Pave Diamond Bangle Bracelet Size SH
By Hermès
Located in Feasterville, PA
Hermès Kelly Diamond Bracelet is a striking embodiment of luxury and iconic design. Crafted from 18k rose gold, this bracelet reimagines the classic Kelly silhouette with its trapez...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Baroque Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Bracelet in 925 Sterling Silver – 6mm 16.5cm
Located in Hong Kong, HK
This beautiful bracelet features hand-selected baroque natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise beads in vibrant sky-blue tones. Each irregularly shaped 6mm bead showcases the signature ric...
Silver
Vintage Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver Cable Link Bracelet with Heart Tag / Charm
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver chain link bracelet. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. With a heart shaped tag or charm. Secured with a lobster clasp closure. Fully marked to the heart....
Sterling Silver
Cartier Juste un Clou Classic Model 18k Yellow Gold Bangle Bracelet Sz 16
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
Cartier Juste un Clou Bracelet in Yellow Gold. Crafted in 18k yellow gold, this bracelet embodies the transformation of an ordinary nail into a piece of fine jewelry. The design feat...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
David Yurman Solari Pearl Bracelet Sterling Silver and Diamonds
By David Yurman
Located in Fairfield, CT
David Yurman Solari Pearl Bracelet Sterling Silver and Diamonds This elegant bangle bracelet features David Yurman’s signature twisted sterling silver design, finished at each end w...
Diamond, Cultured Pearl, Sterling Silver
$415Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra Classic Purple Amethyst 8.42ct Line Bracelet in Sterling Silver for Her
Located in New York, NY
This elegant link bracelet is crafted in fine 925 sterling silver and adorned with 32 natural amethyst gemstones, each measuring 4 mm and beautifully cut in a classic square shape. W...
Amethyst, Silver, Sterling Silver
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
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
Floating Pearl Surrealist 14k Gold Cuff Bracelet Statement Piece
Located in Miami, FL
14k Gold Floating Pearl Cuff bracelet is a luxurious fine jewelry piece made of solid 14k gold with 13mm freshwater pearl. Inspired by surrealism, this statement piece is designed t...
Pearl, 14k Gold
Tiffany & Co. Stars Motif Links Vintage Rare Star 18 Karat Yellow Gold Bracelet
Located in Tysons, VA
Crafted in 18K yellow gold Approximate weight: 15 grams Approximate length: 7 inches Signed Tiffany & Co. Star motif design Hallmarks and maker’s marks present Elegant and collectib...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Natural Aquamarine 12mm Bead Elastic Bracelet
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Shimmering with serene ocean hues, this stunning Natural Aquamarine bracelet captures the tranquil beauty of the sea. Hand-strung with large, lustrous 12mm round Aquamarine beads, ea...
Aquamarine
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 Love Classic Bracelet — 18K Rose Gold, 4 Diamonds, Size 17
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
Circa unknown. This Cartier Love bracelet exemplifies refined elegance with its distinctive design. Crafted in 18k rose gold, it features four brilliant-cut diamonds, bezel-set and ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
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
Karl Lagerfeld Red, Yellow and Blue Resin Square Bangle Bracelet
Located in Atlanta, GA
Karl Lagerfeld Paris designed this elegant bangle made of laminated resin. The bangle is square-shaped with a multi-layer lamination process in red, yellow, and blue colors with tran...
Gucci Black Plexiglass and Crystal Jeweled Cuff Bracelet, 2013 Runway Collection
By Gucci
Located in Atlanta, GA
Gucci Spectacular Bracelet by Frida Giannini, Fall/Winter 2013 Runway A rare and electrifying creation from Gucci's Fall/Winter 2013 runway collection, this sculptural cuff bracelet—...
Fendi Geometric Bubble Acrylic Resin and Gunmetal Link Bracelet in Box
By Fendi
Located in Atlanta, GA
The House of Fendi, Italy, designed this stunning bangle bracelet. The rare piece is made of metal-setting links with a gunmetal finish, adorned with large "bubble" acrylic resin bea...
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
$18,800Sale Price|20% Off
Set in 18K Gold, Aquamarines, Ceylon Multi Sapphires & Diamonds modern Bracelet
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and modern style, Aquamarine & Multi Sapphires Modern Link Bracelet set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Aquamarines & Multi Sapphires is 52.63...
Aquamarine, Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Louis Vuitton 18k yellow gold Idylle Blossom Monogram bracelet
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Louis Vuitton 18k yellow gold Idylle Blossom Monogram bracelet is a refined modern design that beautifully reflects the house’s iconic blend of luxury, elegance, and contemporary Fre...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Mid-20th Century 14K Yellow Gold Large Curb Link Florentine Finish Bracelet
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This vintage, yellow gold, Florentine finish, curb link bracelet is the epitome of quality construction and style. Sixteen substantial links, fabricated in 14K gold connect to produc...
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$460Sale Price / item|50% Off
19.45 CTW Aquamarine Tennis Bracelet Gift for Best Friend Made in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
Modern 19.45 CTW Aquamarine Tennis Bracelet in sterling silver showcases endlessly sparkling natural aquamarine, weighing 19.45 carat. It measures 7.25 inches long in length. Aquama...
Aquamarine, Silver, Sterling Silver
Cartier Menotte Vintage 18K White Gold Screw Bangle Bracelet
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
Circa unknown. This Cartier bracelet embodies a fusion of industrial precision and minimalist elegance. Crafted in exquisite 18k white gold, it exudes a cool and refined presence, k...
18k Gold, White Gold
Claire Deve Geometric Gilded and Iridescent Blue Jeweled Bangle Bracelet
By Claire Deve
Located in Atlanta, GA
This stunning Claire Deve Paris link bracelet features a geometric shape with triangle-shaped gilt-metal elements set with faceted crystal beads in assorted purple and green iridesce...
Gilt Metal
1970's Vintage Handmade Bangle Bracelet 14k Yellow Gold
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Handmade bracelet circa 1970's crafted out of 14k yellow gold. Sleek and classic look that's perfect as an everyday piece. In good condition. Metal: 14k Yellow Gold Measurements: F...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1950's Old European Cut Diamond Platinum Vintage Line Bracelet
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Comprised of hinged square links bead set with old European cut diamonds Weighing approximately 8.96 carats total - H color with VS2 to SI1 clarity With pierced profile Completed by ...
Diamond, Platinum
Silvia Furmanovich Silk Road Porcelain Bead Tourmaline, Diamond & Ruby Bracelet
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
Like wearing a jewel-encrusted textured wrap on your wrist, renowned designer Silvia Furmanovich calls this fantastical cuff the “Silk Road Bracelet.” Furmanovich is celebrated for h...
Diamond, Ruby, Tourmaline, 18k Gold
John Galliano Multicolor Aluminum Link Bracelet Bangle
Located in Atlanta, GA
This rare John Galliano bangle bracelet features an aluminum chunky link shape with a multicolor pattern. The bracelet is fully articulated and fits very nicely on the wrist. It is c...
Cartier Panther Panthère Yellow Gold & Silverium Emerald Pearl Bracelet Vintage
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
A striking and highly collectible design from Cartier, this vintage Panthère bracelet is crafted in 18 karat yellow gold and silverium, featuring five elegant strands of luminous pea...
Emerald, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold and Cabachon Semi Precious Stones Bracelet
By Vaid
Located in New York, NY
This bracelet is designed with 15 yellow gold links each with a quilted diamond pattern. Every other link features diamond shaped cabachon stones of Amethyst, Citrine, Green & Pi...
Amethyst, Citrine, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18k yellow gold jade hinged bracelet – 53.4 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold jade hinged bracelet – 53.4 grams Detailed description the width of the bracelet is 9.7 mm Inner size of the bracelet is 5.5 cm wide Total weight : 53.4 grams se...
Jade, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold Madison Pavé Diamond Toggle Chain Bracelet
By David Yurman
Located in Boca Raton, FL
18K Yellow Gold David Yurman Madison® Pavé Diamond Toggle Chain Bracelet Designer: David Yurman Collection: Madison® Style: Pavé Diamond Toggle Chain Bracelet Material: 18k Yello...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$240,000Sale Price|20% Off
Tiffany & Co. 18k White Gold Feathered Cloak Diamond, Garnet & Sapphire Bracelet
Located in Chicago, IL
Tiffany & Co. 18k White Gold Feathered Cloak Diamond, Garnet & Sapphire Cuff Bracelet Notice: Due to the high value, payment is accepted by bank wire only. Please contact us...
Diamond, Garnet, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Bold Silver Oval Link Bracelet
Located in Stamford, CT
The bracelet has a vivid appeal with its large 1 1/2 inch high oval links. It has what is called "the look", a stylish fashionable accessory for every day wear, be it office or dinne...
$407Sale Price / item|50% Off
Aquamarine Gemstone Tennis Bracelet 925 Silver Bracelet Mother's Day Present
Located in New York, NY
Aquamarine Gemstone Tennis Bracelet in sterling silver showcases endlessly sparkling natural aquamarine, weighing 21.12 carat. It measures 7.5 inches long in length. Aquamarine stim...
Aquamarine, Silver, Sterling Silver
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
Gala 14k Gold Scallop Cuff with Pearl
Located in Miami, FL
Gala 14k Gold Scallop Cuff with Pearl is a luxurious fine jewelry piece made of solid 14k gold with 13mm freshwater pearl. This abstract design is inspired by the scallop shape of a...
Pearl, 14k Gold
Cartier Juste un Clou 18K White Gold Classic Bracelet with Diamonds, Size 15
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
Circa unknown. This Cartier bracelet redefines elegance with its innovative design. Crafted in 18k white gold, it transforms a common nail into a statement of luxury. The Juste un C...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
15 Carat Total Diamond Weight Diamond 14 KY Gold Tennis Bracelet GIA Certified
Located in Boca Raton, FL
This elegant bracelet showcases a refined design, featuring a series of 35 GIA certified round, brilliant-cut stones set in a warm yellow gold setting. Each stone is meticulously sec...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$827Sale Price|50% Off
Silvorra 925 Silver Natural Emerald & Diamond Modern Statement Bangle Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This Modern bangle bracelet is crafted in 925 sterling silver, featuring square cut emeralds weighing 1.40 carats and sparkling diamonds totaling 0.90 carats. The emeralds are set i...
Diamond, Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
Cartier Juste un Clou 18K White Gold Classic Bracelet with Diamonds, Size 15
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
Circa unknown. This Cartier bracelet redefines elegance with its innovative design. Crafted in 18k white gold, it transforms a common nail into a statement of luxury. The Juste un C...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$207Sale Price / item|50% Off
Classic 32.60 Carat Lemon Quartz Tennis Bracelet for Her in 925 Sterling Silver
Located in New York, NY
Classic 32.60 Carat Lemon Quartz Tennis Bracelet for Her in sterling silver showcases endlessly sparkling natural lemon quartz, weighing 32.60 carat. It measures 7 inches long in len...
Quartz, Silver, Sterling Silver
Cartier d’Amour 18K Rose Gold Diamond Bracelet, ~0.10ct, 7.25in Long
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A Timeless Tribute to Love and Refined Elegance Enhance your everyday look or commemorate a special occasion with this Cartier d’Amour Diamond Bracelet, meticulously crafted in 18K r...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Modern Blackened White Gold & Diamond Wide Cuff Bracelet by SIERA, 9.30ct
By Siera
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This is a truly innovative wide cuff bracelet by contemporary designer, SIERA. The unique "envelope fold over" design creates a very big look. The surfaces of the filigree work are b...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Bracelet with emerald and brilliant cut diamonds up to 2.50ct 18k white gold
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k white gold bracelet set with emerald and brilliant-cut diamond up to 2.50 ct – F/G – VS/SI – 18.5 cm long Detailed description The bracelet is 18.5 cm long, 1.0 cm wide, and 7....
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold
Oxidized Silver and 24K Yellow Gold Snake Cuff with Emerald Eyes by Lika Behar
By Lika Behar
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
This striking Snake Cuff combines the dramatic contrast of oxidized sterling silver with the warmth of 24K yellow gold, forming a sinuous, sculptural design that wraps elegantly arou...
Emerald, 24k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
$192Sale Price|50% Off
Lemon Topaz and Diamond Wedding Bracelet Gife for Her Crafted in Sterling Silver
Located in New York, NY
Lemon Topaz and Diamond Wedding Bracelet for Women Crafted in Sterling Silver showcases endlessly sparkling natural lemon topaz, weighing 15.3 carat. It measures 7.25 inches long in ...
Diamond, Topaz, Silver, Sterling Silver
Christian Lacroix Paris Silver Plate Jeweled Cuff Bracelet
Located in Atlanta, GA
This rare sculptural Christian Lacroix Paris bracelet bangle features a silver-plate cuff shape with a multi-wire design, ornate with larger metal ropes on the sides. It is embellish...
Silver Plate
$23,200Sale Price|20% Off
Set in 18K Gold, Ceylon Multi Sapphires & Rose Cut Diamonds Modern Bracelet
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, one of a kind, Multi Sapphires Modern Bracelet set in 18K Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Multi Sapphires is 46.00 carats. The Multi Sapphir...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
John Galliano Blue 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 geometric shape in transparent blu...
$750Sale Price / item|50% Off
925 Silver Natural Blue Topaz and Zircon Statement Wide Tennis Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This Natural Blue Topaz and Zircon Statement Wide Tennis Bracelet stunning tennis bracelet crafted in 925 sterling silver. Showcasing a captivating row of large, round-cut blue topaz...
Topaz, Zircon, Blue Topaz, Silver, Sterling Silver
David Yurman Sterling Silver & 14K Gold X Classic Cable Station 7mm Bracelet
By David Yurman
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine silver & gold cuff bracelet. By David Yurman. In sterling silver & 14 karat gold. In the X Classic pattern. Marked to one of the terminals for 925 / 585 / ©DY. Simply a w...
14k Gold, Sterling Silver
An Important 1970s Cartier Gold and Diamond Chevron Cuff
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Bold, architectural, and unmistakably Cartier, this striking cuff bracelet exemplifies the sophisticated glamour that defined the house's jewelry designs of the 1970s. Crafted in 18-...
White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Platinum
10K Yellow Gold 1.0 Cttw Round Diamond Pave Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Draped in the luxurious luster of 10K yellow gold, this bracelet is a masterpiece tailored for the connoisseur. One carat of pristine, natural round diamonds glitter within a pave se...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 10k Gold, Yellow Gold
$140,000Sale Price|20% Off
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Diamond and Cultured Pearl Bracelet
Located in Chicago, IL
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Diamond and Cultured Pearl Bracelet Brand & Hallmarks: Stamped Van Cleef & Arpels; NY; 750 with serial numbers. Materials: Sol...
Diamond, White Diamond, Pearl, Cultured Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K White Gold 8.09ct Oval Diamond Tennis Bracelet, Modern Design
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite 18-karat white gold tennis bracelet seamlessly blends brilliant artistry with timeless elegance, weighing approximately 14.69 grams and measuring 6.50 inches in length...
Diamond, 18k Gold
18K Gold Natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Bracelet – 3mm Beads, 17.5cm
Located in Hong Kong, HK
This delicate and refined bracelet showcases uniform 3mm natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise beads in a vibrant, consistent sky-blue color. Sourced from Arizona, Sleeping Beauty turquo...
Turquoise, 18k Gold