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.
Vintage 1990s Cartier Geometric Two Tone Link Bracelet in Yellow and White Gold
By Cartier
Located in London, England
A rare vintage Cartier geometric two-tone bracelet set in 18k yellow and white gold, circa 1990s.
The piece features the geometric motif connected by polished bars. It cre...
18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
John Hardy Sterling Silver Box Chain Double Wrap Blue Stone Chain Link Bracelet
By John Hardy
Located in Baltimore, MD
John Hardy Sterling Silver Box Chain Double Wrap Blue Stone Chain Link Bracelet Metal: Sterling silver 925 Gemstones: Lapis lazuli, sodalite & hematite beads Width: 6mm Length: (7.5...
Sterling Silver
Cartier Trinity Rolling Rings 18k Tri-Color Gold Chain Bracelet w/Certificate
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Cartier Collection/Style: Trinity Rolling Rings Chain Bracelet Material: 18k yellow, pink, and white gold Hallmarks: Cartier 750 DJ0437 Design: Four rolling Trinity rings ...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
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
Bezel-Set Diamond Tennis Bracelet in 18 Karat Yellow Gold by Allison Bryan
Located in London, GB
This elegant diamond tennis bracelet features 2 carats of sparkling diamonds set in 18-karat yellow gold. A timeless classic, this piece transitions easily from day to night. The dia...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Goossens Paris 24ct Gold Dipped Brass Lutèce Cuff Bracelet
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
New at the House of Goossens. Cuff from the Lutèce Collection. A precious alchemy of shine and patina, this new collection plays with light and shade. The essence of textured, hammer...
Gold, Brass
David Yurman Pearl Sterling Silver & 14k Gold 5mm Cable Cuff Bracelet 6.5"
By David Yurman
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: David Yurman Collection: Cable Classic Style: Cable Cuff Bracelet Material: Sterling silver and 14k yellow gold Hallmarks: D.Y. 925 585 Pearls: Cultured pearls Design: S...
Pearl, 14k Gold, Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver 13.70 Carat Amethyst Bolo Bracelet
Located in Webster, SD
This beautiful bracelet is sterling silver with a double row of 18 emerald cut amethysts weighing apx 13.7 carats. The face of this bracelet measures 3/8 of an inch wide. The bolo st...
Amethyst, Sterling Silver
John Hardy 9mm Sterling Silver 'Icon' Chain Bracelet with Diamond Clasp
By John Hardy
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver bracelet. By John Hardy. In sterling silver. From the 'Icon' series. Simply a wonderful signed John Hardy bracelet! Date: Late 20th Century or Early 21st Ce...
Diamond, Sterling Silver
Lagos Caviar Sterling Silver Bangle Bracelet with 18K Gold Accents
By Lagos Caviar
Located in Boca Raton, FL
LAGOS Caviar Bracelet crafted in sterling silver with 18K yellow gold accents, showcasing the iconic Caviar beaded design that has become one of the brand's most recognizable and end...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
Vintage 18K Gold Tiffany & Co. Atlas Bracelet
Located in Venice, CA
This 18k gold Tiffany & Co. bracelet is a classic Tiffany design from the Atlas collection. Inspired by the Atlas clock that infamously stood in front of the Tiffany & Co. st...
Gold, 18k Gold
Diamond Tennis Bracelet in 9 ct Yellow Gold 0.50 ct
Located in London, GB
A timeless and refined diamond tennis bracelet crafted in 9ct yellow gold, showcasing a continuous line of brilliant-cut diamonds. Each diamond is individually set within a distincti...
Diamond, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold
Sterling Silver, 24K Yellow Gold & Diamond "Carol" Open Cuff by Lika Behar
By Lika Behar
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
This handcrafted “Carol” open cuff bracelet by Lika Behar Jewelry combines 24K yellow gold and sterling silver in a bold, artisanal design. The bracelet features brilliant diamonds t...
Diamond, 24k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
26647 Tiffany & Co Victoria Platinum 8.45ct Marquise Diamond Tennis Bracelet 7”
Located in Chicago, IL
Every single diamond has a Tiffany laser inscription on the crown Bracelet is from Tiffany & Co. Victoria Collection Platinum diamond bracelet weighs 16.6g 36 round diamonds, to...
Diamond, Platinum
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
$372Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra Rainbow Moonstone & Zircon Tennis Bracelet in 925 Silver Gift for her
Located in New York, NY
Featuring 8.7 carats of natural oval rainbow moonstones adorned by 2.53 carats of sparkling zircon, this handcrafted tennis bracelet is crafted in 925 sterling silver. The bracelet s...
Moonstone, Zircon, Rainbow Moonstone, Silver, Sterling Silver
Multi Gemstone Bolo Bracelet Sterling Silver
Located in Webster, SD
This beautiful bolo bracelet is sterling silver. It features 7 oval cut, 4x6mm amethyst, citrine, peridot, garnet and blue topaz gemstones. Measurements: 1/4 of an inch at its wides...
Multi-gemstone, Sterling Silver
La Nouvelle Bague 18 Karat Gold Bangle Bracelet with Diamonds and Green Enamel
Located in New York, NY
This magnificent 18 karat yellow gold bracelet is designed by the world renowned Italian company La Nouvelle Bague. They are known for their exquisite enamel work, marrying the class...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Cleto Munari Limited Edition 18K Gold and Ebony Cuff Bracelet, 2018
Located in Bruxelles, BE
Ebony bracelet by Italian artist and editor Cleto Munari Made from a single piece of wood, nails and hinge in 18k gold. Width : 6 cm Length : 17 cm approx. Gross weight : 140 g 2018 ...
18k Gold
10K Two-Tone Gold 2.0 Cttw Baguette Diamond Channel Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Immerse yourself in the decadence of the 10K Two-Tone Gold Diamond Bracelet, where expert craftsmanship meets timeless elegance. This piece features a lustrous interplay of white and...
Diamond, White Diamond, 10k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Bulgari B.zero1 Rose Gold and Diamond Bracelet
By Bulgari
Located in New Orleans, LA
This iconic Bulgari B.zero1 bangle exemplifies the house’s mastery of contemporary luxury design. Crafted in 18K rose gold, the bracelet is pavé set with diamonds totaling 11.60 cara...
Diamond, Rose Gold
$5,520Sale Price / item|20% Off
11.73 Ct Natural Emerald Tennis Bracelet in 14K Yellow Gold Modern Fine Jewelry
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This modern emerald tennis bracelet features 28 emerald cut emeralds totaling 11.73 carats, set in rich 14K yellow gold. Each vibrant emerald measures approximately 5 × 4 mm and is s...
Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
David Yurman 18 Karat Yellow Chevron Pattern Band
By David Yurman
Located in Chevy Chase, MD
The David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold Chevron Pattern Band is a stylish ring made of high-quality 18K yellow gold. It features a sleek chevron pattern design that adds a modern touch to a...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Fidelity Heart Key 18k White Gold Link Bracelet w/Papers 7"
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Cartier Collection/Style: Fidelity Heart Link Bracelet with Key Clasp Material: 18k white gold Hallmarks: 750 Cartier 1997 AB7826 Design: Flat bar link bracelet with round...
18k Gold, White Gold
Tiffany & Co. Vintage Geometric 18k Yellow Gold Large Link Bracelet 8"
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Tiffany & Co. Era: Circa 1970s Style: Geometric Large Link Bracelet Material: 18k yellow gold Design: Large geometric rope-wire links accented with polished X-shaped links...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
One-of-a-Kind Paula Crevoshay "Moon Dance" Bracelet. Moonstones, Blue Sapphires
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
Introducing "Moon Dance," a one-of-a-kind bracelet by the illustrious Paula Crevoshay. This masterpiece offers an unparalleled blend of elegance and comfort...
Moonstone, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold
Robert Lee Morris Silver Plated Wings Cuff
Located in New York, NY
The soft abstract design of this dramatic cuff, is of two wings, gently meeting, with a thick edge of silver as the long curved vertical line in the cent...
Sterling Silver
Figaro Bracelet 9.5mm Sterling Silver 8.25inch 12444*
By Unbranded
Located in New York, NY
Classic Figaro Bracelet. Link 9.5mm 24 grams 8.25 inch long
Silver
$377Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra Modern Toi et Moi Aquamarine and Diamond 925 Silver Open Cuff Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This gorgeous Toi et Moi 1.38 carats pear shaped aquamarine and diamond open cuff bracelet is crafted in 925 Sterling Silver. The gemstones are beautifully complemented by a halo of ...
Aquamarine, Diamond, Silver, Sterling Silver
Vintage Tiffany & Co. T True Narrow Link Bracelet in Rose Gold, Size 16
Located in London, England
A stunning vintage Tiffany & Co. Tiffany T True narrow link bracelet set in 18k rose gold, circa 2000s.
The bracelet features interlocking T-shaped link motifs, forming th...
18k Gold, Rose Gold
Vintage Silver Tone Prong Set Bracelet with Red Diamante, Circa 1940s
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Red Diamante in Silver Tone Prong Set Bracelet Circa 1940s. This bracelet has layers of gorgeousness. It features links to rounds, baguettes, and pavé, giving it a very artis...
Mixed Metal
$8,436Sale Price|20% Off
2.67 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 2.67-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by emerald accents ...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Vintage Italian 14K Gold Diamond Flexible Bangle Bracelet Circa 1970
Located in Miami, FL
Elegant and timeless, this Italian flexible bangle bracelet is crafted in 14 karat yellow gold and showcases the refined craftsmanship synonymous with fine Italian jewelry of the 197...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bvlgari, 18K Gold Mother-of-Pearl Serpenti Quartz Wristwatch
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
This BVLGARI Serpenti watch bangle coils in sculptural rose gold, articulated with scale-like links for fluid movement. Pavé diamonds accent geometric motifs, framing a sleek dial wi...
Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Vintage Taxco Mexican Sterling Silver Modernist Hinged Bangle Bracelet
By Taxco
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine vintage Mexican silver bangle bracelet. In sterling silver. With a central dome device flanked on either side by openwork and smaller do...
Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger Diamond 18k Gold Platinum X Link Bracelet 7.25"
By Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Tiffany & Co. Designer: Jean Schlumberger Collection: X Style: Diamond X Link Bracelet Material: 18k yellow gold and platinum Approximately 3.00 carat total weight Design: Pol...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
$17,048Sale Price|20% Off
1.47 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 1.47-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by yellow diamond accents for...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
$10,194Sale Price|20% Off
2.42 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Gold Bangle Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This estate bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 2.42-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. Crafted in 18k gold, it was chosen ...
Diamond, 18k Gold
$2,288Sale Price / item|20% Off
14 Karat Rose Gold Unisex Cuff Bangle Bracelet Anniversary Gift
Located in Deira, Dubai
Solid 14k Rose Gold Unisex Cuff Bangle Bracelet Anniversary Gift The bracelet features a sleek, open cuff silhouette crafted in rose gold. The rounded, tubular profile offers both co...
Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
La Nouvelle Bague 18KT Rose Gold, Burgundy Enamel and .59 Carat Diamond Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
This 18 karat rose gold bracelet is designed by the world renowned Italian company La Nouvelle Bague. They are known for their exquisite craftsmanship, marrying the classic with the...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Enamel
OLE LYNGGAARD Love Bracelet 18 karat yellow and rose gold
Located in Amsterdam, NL
Ole Lynggaard Copenhagen 18 karat gold Love Bracelet Medium, brushed yellow and rose gold. This 11-link bracelet feels like satin on the skin thanks to the hand-brushed decoration. T...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold
$13,006Sale Price|20% Off
3.65 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 3.65-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. Crafted in 18k gold, it offers a wearable ...
Diamond, 18k Gold
$5,283Sale Price|20% Off
3.64 Carat Multi Shape Diamond Bracelet 14 Karat Yellow Gold Handmade Jewelry
Located in Deira, Dubai
Elevate your style with the enchanting allure of this exquisite 3.64 carat Multi-Shape Diamond Bracelet, meticulously handcrafted in luxurious 14 karat yellow gold. This stunning pie...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$295Sale Price|21% Off
Vionnet Sleek Wide Gilt Metal Hinged Cuff Bracelet c 1990s
Located in University City, MO
Vionnet Sleek wide gilt metal hinged cuff bracelet c 1990s The bold severe wide cuff is designed with a triangular pyramid point that converges in the center Makes a very chic eyeca...
Clover Natural Diamonds Bangle Bracelet 14kt 95547*
By Unbranded
Located in New York, NY
Diamonds Clover Solid Bangle Bracelet 1.40ct Natural Diamonds Rounds, Full Cut brilliant G-color Vs-2 clarity 14kt yellow gold 49.6 grams Inner: 2.25 inch X 2 inch Top: .38 inch wide...
Diamond, Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Tank Princess Cut Diamond 18k White Gold Bangle Bracelet Size 16
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Cartier Collection: Tank Style: Bangle Bracelet Material: 18k white gold Hallmarks: 1997 Cartier 750 E53038 16 Gemstones/Diamonds: One princess-cut natural diamond approx...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$18,455Sale Price|20% Off
6.85 Carat Princess Cut Diamond Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This estate bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 6.85-carat diamond in a crisp princess cut. Crafted in 18k gold, it makes a versatile addition to a fine jew...
Diamond, 18k Gold
StingHD Italian 18k Yellow Gold Diamond Bracelet with Black Stingray, 9.00 Carat
Located in Plantation, FL
Impeccable in every detail, this breathtaking fusion of diamonds, yellow gold, and stingray leather is sure to be remembered. Handcrafted by our master artisans, this bracelet featur...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,660Sale Price|30% Off
GIA Certified Untreated Jadeite Jade Hinged Bangle Bracelet 14K Gold Clasp
Located in New York, NY
A striking and unusual natural jadeite jade bangle bracelet, composed of two contrasting arc-shaped segments showcasing a rare and visually dynamic color combination. One half displa...
Jade, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Chanel Runway 1986 Wide Cuff Bangle w/CHANEL Spelled out In Gold Tone Letters
By Chanel
Located in Palm Beach, FL
Made for Chanel Runway Season 23, this large size cuff/bangle is one of the most sought after iconic Chanel bracelets. The black background is accented with 1 1/2 inch high gold tone...
Vintage Nettie Rosenstein Gold Tone Link Bracelet, Circa 1960s
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Nettie Rosenstein Gold Tone Bracelet Circa 1960s.Vintage Nettie Rosenstein Gold Bracelet with Gold Domed Discs. The Back features a beautiful design that only the 1960s co...
Mixed Metal
$24,606Sale Price|20% Off
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
10mm Natural Rose Quartz Bead Stretch Bracelet – 16.8cm Product Description:
Located in Hong Kong, HK
This delicate and feminine stretch bracelet features lustrous 10mm natural Rose Quartz beads in soft, romantic shades of pale pink. Each bead is smoothly polished, showcasing the sto...
Quartz
Tiffany & Co. Peretti Pearls by the Yard 18k Yellow Gold Bracelet 7.25"
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Tiffany & Co. Collection/Style: Elsa Peretti Pearls by the Yard Bracelet Designer: Elsa Peretti Material: 18k yellow gold Hallmarks: T&Co. 750 / Peretti Gemstones...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,680Sale Price|20% Off
Tanisa Nahata Diamond 1.05ct. Bangle in 18Karat White Gold.
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Made by nature over a period of time and under great pressure, diamonds are a beautiful reminder that all things great take time. There is a reason why diamonds are a girl’s best fri...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$23,728Sale Price|20% Off
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
$28,121Sale Price|20% Off
2.12 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 2.12-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by yellow diamond accents for...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
$12,654Sale Price|20% Off
3.8 Carat Rose Cut Diamond Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 3.8-carat diamond in a rose cut, prized for its domed crown and soft, candlelit glow. It is framed by diamond accen...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Cartier Panthere Tsavorite Black Lacquer 18K Yellow Gold Panther Chain Bracelet
By Cartier
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: An iconic Panthere chain bracelet by Cartier, expertly crafted in solid 18K yellow gold. This elegant design features the Maison's legendary panther motif accented with ...
Tsavorite, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Roberto Coin 18k Yellow Gold Primavera Diamond Weave Bangle Bracelet
By Roberto Coin
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Roberto Coin 18k Yellow Gold Primavera Diamond Weave Bangle Bracelet Crafted in 18-karat yellow gold, this bracelet features a beautiful near-colorless diamond station on a weave st...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold