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.
Modern 14 Karat Gold 32.00 Carat Cabochon Sapphire 1.35 Carat Diamond Bracelet
Located in Vilnius, Vilniaus apskr.
This is a stunning modern design bracelet crafted in 14K gold. Circa 2000. The piece features: - 71 sapphires, round cabochon cut, TW 32.00ct, B 6/4, VS-SI - 24 diamonds, round bri...
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold
Tiffany & Co. Italy Sterling Silver & 18K Yellow Gold Open Hearts Bracelet
Located in Mount Kisco, NY
Tiffany & Co. Italy Sterling Silver & 18 Karat Yellow Gold Open Hearts Bracelet. This charming circa 2001 Tiffany & Co. seven inch chain bracelet is crafted in solid ster...
Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver, 18k Gold
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
$925Sale Price / item|50% Off
20 Carat Heart Cut Aquamarine Tennis Bracelet for Birthday Gift in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
20 Carat Heart Cut Aquamarine Bracelet in sterling silver showcases endlessly sparkling natural aquamarine, weighing 20 carat. It measures 7 inches long in length. Aquamarine stimul...
Aquamarine, Silver, Sterling Silver
10K Yellow Gold Scissors Charm/Pendant - Signed - Canada - Late 20th Century
Located in Chatham, CA
10K solid yellow gold 'scissors' charm - signed (AKB - ARMANDOR) - Canada - late 20th century. Excellent pre-owned condition - un-soldered bail - no loss - no damage - no repairs - ...
Yellow Gold, 10k 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
$11,843Sale Price|20% Off
14KT White Gold Exquisite Floral Link Diamond 8.42 Cts Wide Cuff Bracelet
Located in Antwerp, BE
This breathtaking wide cuff bracelet is crafted in 14K white gold, featuring an intricate lattice network of glittering floral clusters. Each delicate four-petal flower motif is clos...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
$360Sale Price / item|20% Off
14K Gold 0.35 ct Heart-Shaped Orange Sapphire Prong-Set Station Chain Bracelet
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This delicate station chain bracelet features a 0.35 ct heart-shaped orange sapphire, set in 14K yellow gold. It measures 4 × 4.2 mm and is secured in a classic prong setting that al...
Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1960s Vintage Jade 14 Karat Gold Hinged Bangle Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
An elegant vintage jade and 14K yellow gold hinged bangle bracelet, featuring smoothly polished pale celadon jade with naturally varied areas of soft to brighter green coloration. T...
Jade, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cuff bracelet GOOSSENS PARIS, gold-plated hammered metal, imitation rubise, 2000
Located in Stuttgart, DE
Cuff bracelet made by GOOSSENS PARIS, gold-plated hammered metal, imitation rubiese and brilliants . Dimensions : The bracelet consists of thre hammered, gold-plated sections; one o...
Crystal, Gold Plate
Cartier Love Series Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Bangle Bracelet 7"
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
Cartier Love Series 1970s Yellow Gold Bracelet: A Rare Collector’s Treasure from the Origins of an Iconic Design This extremely rare Cartier Love Series bracelet from the 1970s is a...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver and Enamel Star Padlock Necklace Pendant or Charm
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver charm or pendant for a necklace. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. In the form of a padlock with a blue enamel star to its center. Marked to the base....
Sterling Silver, Enamel
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...
White Gold, Gold, 14k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 5 Motif Black Onyx 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 Alhambr...
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
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
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Guilloche 5 Motif 18K White Gold Bracelet
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: An elegant Vintage Alhambra 5 Motif Bracelet by Van Cleef & Arpels, exquisitely crafted in solid 18K white gold. This timeless design features five iconic Alhambra m...
18k Gold, White Gold
Ippolita 18 Karat Yellow Gold Classico Oval Hammered Bangled Bracelet 4MM
By Ippolita
Located in Baltimore, MD
Ippolita 18 Karat Yellow Gold Classico Oval Hammered Bangled Bracelet Metal: 18k yellow gold Weight: 6.43 grams Width: 4mm Inside circumference: 7.5 inches Inside diameter: 65mm STD ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Love Rainbow 18k Rose Gold Multi-Gem Classic Bracelet Size 17
By Cartier
Located in Feasterville, PA
Cartier Love Bracelet is a timeless symbol of elegance and design. Crafted in 18K rose gold, this bracelet is adorned with ten round multicolor gemstones, replacing the traditional ...
Amethyst, Garnet, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$625Sale Price / item|50% Off
Modern Square Cut 10.2 Ct Blue Sapphire 925 Silver Tennis Bracelet Gift for Wife
Located in New York, NY
This luxurious 4 carat Deep Blue Sapphire crafted in solid 925 sterling silver gorgeous tennis bracelet features a captivating arrangement of natural blue sapphire gemstones. Each sa...
Blue Sapphire, Silver, Sterling Silver
3.05 Carat Natural Burmese Rubies and Diamonds Bracelet Made in Platinum
Located in Tokyo, JP
A beautiful bracelet made in Platinum featuring 3.05 Carats Natural Burmese Rubies and 1.69 Carats Natural Diamonds. Rubies are referred to as "Ratnaraj" in Sanskrit meaning the King...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Gurhan 24K Yellow Gold Hoopla Geometric Link Bracelet – Luxury Jewelry
By Gurhan
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
The Gurhan 24K Yellow Gold Hoopla Geometric Link Bracelet is a bold expression of sculptural luxury and masterful goldsmithing. Expertly formed from luminous 24K yellow gold, this 8....
24k Gold, Yellow Gold
$265Sale Price|50% Off
14 Carat Natural Turquoise Oval Tennis Bracelet 925 Silver for Women Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
14 Carat Natural Turquoise Oval Cut Tennis Bracelet in sterling silver showcases endlessly sparkling natural turquoise, weighing 14 carat. It measures 7 inches long in length. Turqu...
Turquoise, Silver, Sterling Silver
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 18k Rose Gold Mother of Pearl Bracelet
Located in Feasterville, PA
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Bracelet is a refined expression of elegance and timeless design. Crafted from 18k rose gold, this bracelet features five motifs, each adorned wi...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$408Sale Price / item|20% Off
Minimalist 14K Solid Yellow Gold Bezel Set Uneven Diamond Station Chain Bracelet
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This station chain bracelet features 0.58 ct of uneven diamonds, set in 14K yellow gold. The diamonds are of mixed sizes and are securely set in sleek bezel settings, creating a smoo...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Marina J. Woven pearl Bridal Bracelet with Rhodium plated Silver beads
By Marina J.
Located in Los Angeles, CA
The perfect Bridal bracelet. This piece is made with all Pearls and Rhodium Plated Silver Faceted beads intricately woven together into a tight lace like design. Rhodium Plating ensu...
Pearl, Rhodium, Silver
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Diamonds Yard Three-Diamond Bracelet in 18K
Located in Tampa, FL
A signature Elsa Peretti design for Tiffany & Co., this Diamonds by the Yard® bracelet features three round brilliant-cut diamonds individually bezel-set along a delicate 18K yellow ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$395Sale Price|41% Off
Ciner Opulent Black Enamel Glass Jeweled Hinged Elephant Bracelet c 1970s
By Ciner
Located in University City, MO
CINER gilt metal black enamel glass jeweled hinged elephant bracelet c 1970s The opulent bracelet is designed with an exotic elephant adorned with a ruby color glass cabochon mounted...
Enamel, Gilt Metal
Nina Zhou 4.25ctw Sleeping Beauty Turquoise, Pink Sapphire & Diamond Bracelet
By Nina Zhou
Located in Newport Beach, CA
Inspired by blooming flowers and vibrant summer skies, this bracelet pairs natural pear-shaped pink sapphires with vivid Sleeping Beauty turquoise in a fresh, feminine composition. C...
Turquoise, Diamond, Pink Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels 1990's Diamond 18 Karat Yellow Gold Vintage Line Bracelet
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Comprised of hinged basket links prong set with round brilliant cut diamonds Weighing approximately 7.40 carats total - G color with VS2 clarity Completed by concealed clasp with hin...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,192Sale Price|20% Off
Bvlgari “Tondo” 18K Yellow Gold Stainless Steel Double Heart Cord Bracelet
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
A Modern Icon of Italian Craftsmanship and Romantic Design Introduce a bold, contemporary statement into your accessory lineup with this Bvlgari “Tondo” Double Heart Cord Bracelet, f...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Steel, Stainless Steel
$1,760Sale Price|20% Off
Natural rose cut diamonds blue sapphire and ruby 18K gold plated silver bracelet
Located in Delhi, DL
SKU-PUJ-145/VE Add a touch of luxury to your jewelry collection with this magnificent broad 18K gold-plated hinged bangle bracelet. Crafted from sterling silver, this stunning piece ...
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Sterling Silver, 18k Gold, Gold ...
John Galliano Clear 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 sliced shape in transparent light ...
Gold Cuff Bracelet Chain Link Chunky Open Cuff Mixed Link Sculptural Vintage
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Gold Cuff Bracelet Chain Link Chunky Open Cuff Mixed Link Sculptural Vintage Designer: J DAUPHIN Gold cuff bracelet in gold plated brass, a one of a kind vintage 2008 piece by J Da...
Gold, Gold Plate, Brass
Multicolor South Sea and Tahitian Pearl Necklace, 9.5–9.9mm, High Luster
Located in 上海市, CN
About SEVENERA GEM-LUSTER A refined multicolor cultured pearl necklace composed of luminous South Sea and Tahitian pearls in a naturally graduated palette. The strand features pear...
South Sea Pearl, Pearl
Hermès Multicolor Le Chat Carre Enamel Clic H Bracelet
By Hermès
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Hermès Clic H enamel bracelet from the whimsical Le Chat Carré collection, crafted with palladium-plated hardware and vibrant multicolor enamel featuring the playful feline motif ins...
Enamel
Cartier Juste un Clou 18K Rose Gold Diamond Bracelet 16 Small Model Papers
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
A modern icon from Cartier, the Juste un Clou bracelet is crafted in 18 karat rose gold and reimagines an ordinary nail into a bold statement of design. This small model size 16 is a...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Tiffany & Co. 1837 Element Sterling Silver Cuff Bangle
Located in New York, NY
A modern sterling silver cuff bracelet from Tiffany & Co.’s iconic 1837 collection. The openwork design features raised plaques engraved “T&CO.,” “1837,” and “925,” framed by...
Sterling Silver
Van Cleef Arpels Sweet Alhambra Bracelet . Genuine VCA 18k YG Mother of Pearl
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Rare Van Cleef and Arpels Bracelet Sweet Alhambra Collection Charm. Guaranteed Genuine 18k Yellow Gold with Mother of Pearl. Condition: Excellent condition. Details: 9mm charm 1...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
70s Vintage Horse Bit Buckle Bracelet 14k Yellow Gold 8" Equestrian Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
Stylish vintage Equestrian themed horse bit bracelet crafted in 14 karat yellow gold (circa 1960s to 1970s). The primary horse bit links alternate with smaller belt buckle motifs, ...
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier LOVE 18 Karat Yellow Gold Bangle Bracelet Size 16
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
The Authentic 18 karat yellow gold Cartier LOVE Bangle, size 16, is a timeless and iconic piece of luxury jewelry. Known for its signature design, the bangle features the distinctive...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier LOVE 18 Karat Rose Bangle Bracelet Size 19 Box & Papers
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
18K Rose Gold Cartier LOVE Bracelet, Size 19. An enduring symbol of love and commitment, this authentic Cartier LOVE Bracelet is expertly crafted in luxurious 18K rose gold and featu...
Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Misani Handcrafted Aurora 18K Yellow Gold & Sterling Silver Leather Bracelet
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
Discover the Handcrafted Sterling Silver, 18K Yellow Gold and Freshwater Pearls Aurora Leather Bracelet by Misani, an elegant expression of Italian artistry and organic luxury. Entir...
Freshwater Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
Textured Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet Delfina by Charles Garnier 6.5 Inches
Located in Webster, SD
This beautiful sterling cuff bracelet is the creation of French designer Charles Garnier. It features the famous sparkling texture which has become iconic for Garnier pieces. At its...
Sterling Silver
Black Leather Bracelet Wrap Cuff Zipper Mens Buckle Italy J Dauphin
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Black Leather Bracelet Wrap Cuff Zipper Mens Buckle Italy J Dauphin Designer J DAUPHIN The Zipper Triple Wrap Bracelet is a statement piece handcrafted in smooth black calfskin le...
Silver Plate, Brass, Silver
David Yurman Fluted Chain Bracelet in 18K Yellow Gold
By David Yurman
Located in Tampa, FL
A David Yurman Fluted Chain bracelet crafted in 18K yellow gold, designed with a series of sculpted interlocking links that create the collection’s fluid, dimensional profile. The br...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bvlgari Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Cuff Bracelet
By Bulgari
Located in Feasterville, PA
Bvlgari Vintage Yellow Gold Cuff Bangle Bracelet is a testament to timeless elegance and superior craftsmanship. Crafted in 18k yellow gold, this bracelet radiates a warm, rich glow...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Bamboo Bracelet in 18K Yellow Gold, Circa 1996, 58g, Full Set
By Cartier
Located in Vannes, FR
Exceptional vintage Cartier Bamboo bracelet crafted in 18K yellow gold. This iconic piece showcases the Maison’s celebrated bamboo-inspired des...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
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
Bvlgari Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Cuff Bracelet
By Bulgari
Located in Feasterville, PA
Bvlgari Vintage Yellow Gold Cuff Bangle Bracelet is a testament to timeless elegance and superior craftsmanship. Crafted in 18k yellow gold, this bracelet radiates a warm, rich glow...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Classic 27 Carat Garnet Tennis Bracelet in Sterling Silver 7.5 Inches
Located in Webster, SD
This gorgeous, classic tennis bracelet is sterling silver. It features 18 oval cut 6x8mm garnet gemstones with an estimated 27 total carats. This bracelet measures 1/4 of an inch wid...
Garnet, 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
Mid-Century 18K Gold & Ruby Set Figural Purse Charm or Pendant
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine vintage figural purse charm or pendant. In 18k gold. Bezel-set with 8 round cut rubies. In the form of a purse or lady's handbag that opens with a hinge to the base, a sna...
Ruby, 18k Gold
Bulgari 18K Yellow Gold Stainless Steel Spiga Chevron Vintage Bangle Bracelet
By Bulgari
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Bracelet is comprised of fitted chevron links alternating in pattern with gold and steel With considerable flex for wrapping Featuring rounded bypass terminals With high polish finis...
Gold, 18k Gold, Stainless Steel
John Hardy Sterling Silver & Leather Bamboo Cuff Bracelet
By John Hardy
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver cuff bracelet. By John Hardy. In sterling silver. With quilted, black leather cover and stylized bamboo trim to the edges of the cuff. Engraved to the inter...
Sterling Silver
$200Sale 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
Alex Sepkus Blue Macrame & 18K Yellow Gold Bracelet – Luxury Designer Macrame
By Alex Sepkus
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
The Alex Sepkus Blue Macrame & 18K Yellow Gold Bracelet is a distinctive expression of modern luxury, texture, and handcrafted artistry. Intricately knotted in vibrant blue macrame, ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Chrysoprase Quartz Bangle - Mid 20th Century
Located in Chatham, CA
Vintage Chrysoprase quartz bangle - semi translucent - mid 20th century. Excellent/mint vintage condition - all original - no loss - no damage - no repairs - minor signs of age and ...
Sacred Heart Cuff Bracelet Jesus Silver Sculptural Vintage J Dauphin
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Sacred Heart Cuff Bracelet Jesus Antique Silver Sculptural Vintage Paris Designer: J DAUPHIN The Sacred Heart Cuff is a rare archive piece, handcrafted in Paris and finished in ant...
Brass, Silver, Silver Plate
Cartier Classic LOVE Bracelet 18 Karat Yellow Gold Size 16
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
18K Yellow Gold Vintage Cartier Classic LOVE Bracelet, Size 16. An enduring icon of luxury jewelry, this authentic Cartier LOVE Bracelet features the coveted early screw system, a ha...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
27013 Tiffany & Co Platinum 17.40ct D VVS1 Cushion Cut Diamond Line Bracelet
Located in Chicago, IL
All cushion-cut diamonds come with Tiffany certificates and laser crown inscriptions on each diamond. Platinum diamond bracelet weighs 26g The bracelet has 32 diamonds, plus 2 in th...
Diamond, Platinum