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 Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet With Authentic Pearls, 1980's
Located in North Miami, FL
This vintage gorgeous 1980's sterling silver and pearl wide cuff bracelet is a showstopper. It is artisan made and has the 925 marking. It may well be one of kind. Then scroll like d...
Pearl, Sterling Silver
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
Natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Bracelet in 925 Sterling Silver – 4.5mm, 18cm
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Pill Shape Natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Bracelet in 925 Sterling Silver – 4.5mm, 18cm Product Description: This elegant bracelet features smooth pill-shaped natural Sleeping Bea...
Turquoise, Silver
1980s Pierre Cardin Signed Gilt Metal French Bracelet
Located in Aci Castello, IT
An authentic piece of 1980s French haute couture costume jewelry, this Pierre Cardin bracelet features a bold, sculptural design in rich gilt metal. The piece is composed of chunky, ...
Gilt Metal
18KT Gold Italian Curb-Link Bracelet
Located in Braintree, GB
A substantial Italian bracelet in 18KT yellow gold, formed as a broad line of polished curb links with a strong, clean profile. The links are tightly articulated and sit closely toge...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Ruby and Diamond Tennis Bracelet Statement 18K Yellow Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
A timeless symbol of elegance, this ruby and diamond bracelet is masterfully crafted in 18K yellow gold. The design features a continuous line of square-cut rubies, each meticulously...
White Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
David Yurman Pure Form 4 Row Sterling Silver Wide Cuff Bracelet 6.25"
By David Yurman
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: David Yurman Collection: Pure Form Style: Wide Cuff Bracelet Material: Sterling Silver Width: Approximately 42 mm Height: Approximately 14.2 mm Weight: 117.5 grams Hallmarks: Stamped David Yurman 925 Inner Circumference: Approximately 6.25" including opening This authentic David Yurman Pure Form...
Sterling Silver
Rondelle 14.50ctw Lab Grown Diamond Bracelet Platinum
Located in Dallas, TX
Rondelle Lab Grown Diamond Bracelet in Platinum. The bracelet features 14.50ctw of brilliant round lab grown diamonds. The bracelet is 6.75 inches long, 4.75mm wide, and weighs 21.1 ...
Diamond, Platinum
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
Designer Bangle with Green Emerald and Pave Diamonds Made in 18k Gold & Silver
By Artisan NYC
Located in New York, NY
"18kt gold:2.77g, Diamond:2.4ct, Silver:22.68gm, Emerald:20.20ct" Size;65X58X18MM
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Silver, Gold
Vintage Horse Charm Pendant 14k Yellow Gold Animal Fine Estate Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
Finely detailed vintage horse charm crafted in 14k yellow gold. The sweet charm features a trotting horse set within a circular mount. The piece...
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14 Karat White Gold 8.01 Carat Natural Round Diamond Tennis Line Bracelet
Located in Baltimore, MD
14 Karat White Gold 8.01 Carat Natural Round Diamond Tennis Line Bracelet Metal: 14k white gold Weight: 10.6 grams Length: 7 inches Width: 3.6mm Diamonds: 48 natural round diamonds ...
Diamond, White 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
Modernist Sterling Silver, 14K Gold, Onyx, Garnet Cable Bracelet by David Yurman
By David Yurman
Located in New York, NY
This modernist cable bracelet by David Yurman is a striking example of his signature style, seamlessly blending sterling silver, 14K gold, and an elegant arrangement of gemstones. De...
Citrine, Garnet, Onyx, 14k Gold, Sterling Silver
$4,000Sale Price|20% Off
14K Gold Sapphire White Diamond Bracelet Modern Blue Sapphire Bracelet
Located in Jaipur, IN
A refined expression of timeless luxury, this handcrafted bracelet is beautifully designed in radiant 14K yellow gold and adorned with vivid natural blue sapphires and brilliant natu...
White Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
22K and 18K Yellow Gold, Silver & Ruby Bracelet by Victor Velyan
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
Crafted with Victor Velyan's unmistakable artistic vision, this extraordinary bracelet is a bold expression of luxury, symbolism, and master craftsmanship. Handcrafted in a striking ...
Ruby, 18k Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver, Sterling Silver
Skull Bone Chain Cuff Bracelet by J Dauphin, Burnt Palladium, 2008
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Skull Cuff Bracelet Chain Bone Vintage Palladium Gothic Rock Jewelry J Dauphin Designer: J DAUPHIN Cast brass cuff with a burnt palladium finish, formed as an interlinked chain and...
Brass, Palladium
Vintage sterling silver torque bangle, I love you
Located in NEWARK, GB
A gorgeous vintage sterling silver torque bangle. It is a lovely smooth polished finish, with a wider oval shape with ball finial ends. To the front it has an etched message; "I lo...
Sterling Silver
Vintage Gold Tone Hammered Heavy Link Bracelet Circa 1980s
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Gold Tone Hammered Heavy Link Bracelet Circa 1980s. This bracelet has substantial oval links that are hammered and make quite an appearance. They are slightly darker gold and...
Mixed Metal
ADA Jewelry 18K White Gold Diamond Silk Touch Bracelet, 22.01 Carats, New
By ADA Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
An exquisite expression of craftsmanship and brilliance, this wide lattice cuff bracelet radiates elegance and sophistication. Set in rich 18K white gold, the flexible design is enti...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
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
Seaman Schepps Classic Large Link Bracelet 18uk Gold Rock Crystal
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A Classic Large Link Bracelet by Seaman Schepps, crafted in 18k gold and translucent rock crystal, designed with an alternating link pattern. Each link has a smooth, rounded profile,...
Rock Crystal, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
10K Yellow Gold Diamond Accent "L" 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
Sterling Silver XO Garnet Bangle Bracelet 7.5 Inches
Located in Webster, SD
This beautiful estate bangle bracelet is sterling silver with 4 oval cut 4x6mm garnets set in an XO pattern. The face of this bracelet measures 1/4 of an inch wide. It has an inner ...
Garnet, Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co. Infinity Diamond Bangle in 18K Yellow Gold
Located in Tampa, FL
A Tiffany & Co. Infinity bangle crafted in polished 18 karat yellow gold and centered by the house’s signature intertwined infinity motif. The sculptural centerpiece is traced with r...
Diamond, 18k 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
Stunning 12.50 Carats F/VS1 Multi-Shape Diamonds Tennis Bracelet in 14K Gold
Located in New Delhi, Delhi
This stunning bracelet features natural diamonds totaling 12.50 carats, beautifully arranged in a refined sequence of multi-shaped diamonds including Heart, Oval, Emerald, Princess, ...
Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold
Massive Bakelite Bracelet Bangle Yellow Creamed Corn
Located in Atlanta, GA
This is a great-looking yellow creamed corn Bakelite bracelet bangle. It boasts an extra-wide sliced shape and an intense, bright, plain yellow color. Measurements: Inside across is ...
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
10K Yellow Gold Diamond Accent "K" 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
Cartier Love Four Diamond Bracelet Classic Model 18K Yellow Gold Size 18
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Love diamond bracelet crafted in 18K yellow gold, set with 4 round brilliant cut diamonds totaling 0.42 carat. Size 18. Bracelet width: 6.1mm. Total weight: 32.5 grams. Excel...
Diamond, 18k 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
11.47 Ct Blue Sapphire 3.16 Ct Natural Diamond Tennis Bracelet 18K White Gold
By Jewel Palate
Located in Deira, AE
Emerald-cut blue sapphires alternate with baguette diamond clusters along this tennis bracelet, each cluster framed by a small halo of round melee for added sparkle around the straig...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$4,156Sale Price / item|20% Off
VR Jewels 14K Solid Yellow Gold 7.67 Ct Oval Ruby & Diamond Tennis Bracelet
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This elegant tennis bracelet features oval cut rubies totaling 7.67 carats, set in rich 14k yellow gold. Each ruby measures approximately 5 X 3.5 mm and is beautifully accented by ro...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold 1970's Georges L'enfant made in France Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
A superb vintage Tiffany & Co. bracelet from the 1970s, crafted in 18K yellow gold in France by the celebrated Parisian goldsmith Georges L’Enfant. The bracelet is composed of five ...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$22,400Sale Price|20% Off
Bvlgari 18K Gold Parentesi Hematite Bracelet
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
A classic Bvlgari Parentesi bangle bracelet crafted in 18K yellow gold and polished hematite, showcasing one of the house's most iconic and enduring designs. Inspired by the interloc...
Hematite, Gold, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Feather Green Nephrite Jade 18k Yellow Gold Cuff 6.75
By Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Tiffany & Co. Designer: Elsa Peretti Style: Feather Cuff Bracelet Material: 18k Yellow Gold Gemstones: Green nephrite jade Design: Sculptural feather-inspired open cuff br...
Jade, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,782Sale Price|20% Off
14K White Gold Modern Bezel-Set 2.15ct Diamond Tennis Bracelet
Located in Antwerp, BE
This sophisticated 14K White Gold Tennis Bracelet features a continuous row of brilliant-cut diamonds, each meticulously secured in a bezel setting. Unlike traditional Bezel settings...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
$372Sale Price / item|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Pink Sapphire Pear Cut Station Chain Bracelet Handmade Jewelry
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Handmade 14K yellow gold station bracelet featuring pear cut natural pink sapphires, with a total weight of 1 carat. Each sapphire is bezel set along a gold chain. The bracelet measu...
Pink Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Diamond Personalized Initial Bracelet White Enamel 14K Gold by Meghna Jewels
Located in Hoffman Estate, IL
From the "Home Is Where Your Heart Is" Collection Inspired by the feeling of love, comfort, and belonging, the Home Is Where Your Heart Is Collection celebrates the memories, milest...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Enamel
Vintage Ledo Gold Tone Diamante Bracelet Circa 1960s
By Ledo Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Ledo Diamante and Gold Bracelet Circa 1960s. This is remarkably similar to the look of Buccellati. It is stunning on its own, and it can be paired with fine jewelry. Substant...
Mixed Metal
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
David Yurman Cable Garnet Sterling Silver & 14k Gold 7mm Bangle Bracelet
By David Yurman
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: David Yurman Style: Cable Bangle Bracelet Material: Sterling silver and 14k yellow gold Hallmarks: D. Yurman 585 925 Gemstones: Natural garnet Design: Signature twisted c...
Garnet, 14k Gold, Sterling Silver
Mercedes Robirosa Paris Massive Silver-plate Chain Cuff Bracelet
Located in Atlanta, GA
This rare and incredible Mercedes Robirosa Paris cuff bracelet features a silver-plated metal cuff shape with a heavy looped chain design. The chains that form this spectacular brac...
Silver Plate
$2,038Sale Price|20% Off
0.83 Carat Round & Emerald Cut Diamond Bangle Cuff Bracelet 18 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
Crafted in classic 18k yellow gold, this sleek diamond bangle bracelet features 0.83 carats of natural diamonds in a clean open design. Each end showcases an emerald-cut diamond surr...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Aaron Basha 18k Gold Pink Pig Charm with Diamonds, Modern Design
By Aaron Basha
Located in Sewickley, PA
This Aaron Basha 18k pig charm iis a delightful expression of playful luxury and fine craftsmanship. Rendered in glossy pink enamel, the plump pig is adorned ...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Cartier Juste un Clou Diamond 18k Rose Gold Bangle Bracelet w/Paper Size 18
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Cartier Collection: Juste un Clou Style: Diamond Pavé Nail Bracelet Material: 18k rose gold Hallmarks: Cartier 18 CCP162 Au750 Gemstones/Diamonds: Natural diamonds approx...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$7,600Sale Price|20% Off
4.50 Ct Blue Sapphire Diamond Tennis Bracelet 14K Gold HI VS Diamond Bracelet
Located in Jaipur, IN
14K Yellow Gold Natural Blue Sapphire & Diamond Tennis Bracelet This sophisticated 14K Yellow Gold Tennis Bracelet features an elegant alternating arrangement of natural blue sapphi...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver Somerset Mesh Bracelet 7.5"
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver Somerset Mesh Bracelet 7.5" Brand: Tiffany & Co. Material: Sterling Silver (.925) Bracelet Length: 7.5 inches Total Weight: 56g (36.0 dwt) Condition: Pre-Owned · Excellent Additional Details: This item comes with a Diamonds by Raymond Lee Presentation Box! SKU: G15381 The Tiffany & Co. Somerset collection is one of the house's most enduring designs, and this mesh bracelet shows exactly why. Introduced in 1999 and named after the English county, the Somerset weave is Tiffany's signature interlocking mesh: thousands of individually-polished sterling silver links woven into a supple, flowing structure that drapes against the wrist like liquid silver. At 56 grams, this bracelet has real, satisfying weight to it. It's the kind of piece you notice the moment you put it on. Sterling silver at this gauge and weave density develops a beautiful depth over time. The recessed areas of the mesh catch just enough shadow to make the raised links pop, giving the bracelet a subtle dimensionality that flat chain styles simply can't replicate. The 7.5-inch length hits the sweet spot for most wrists, fitting comfortably without sliding. The uniform mesh is intact throughout with no snagged or missing links, and the interior hallmark tag confirms authentic Tiffany manufacture. This is a wardrobe-anchor bracelet. It works alone as a clean, architectural statement, and it stacks naturally with other Tiffany pieces or simple gold bangles...
Sterling Silver
Silver Cushion-Cut Purple Amethyst & Diamond Vintage Halo Link Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Envelop your wrist in the splendor of this vintage-inspired bracelet, featuring a constellation of heat-treated natural purple amethysts, each nestled in a cushion cut that captures ...
Amethyst, Diamond, White Diamond, Rhodium, Sterling Silver
Angela Cummings for Tiffany & Co. 1981 Silver Inlay Bangle, 18K Yellow Gold
Located in New York, NY
This 1981 18K yellow gold bangle is a classic example of Angela Cummings’ expert inlay technique for Tiffany & Co. The piece features a seamless mosaic of silver and mixed materials,...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
60s Vintage Opal Pink Tourmaline Bracelet Heart Diamond 14k Yellow Gold Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
Stylish and finely de1ailed vintage opal & pink tourmaline bangle bracelet crafted in 14 karat yellow gold (circa 1960s). Heart cut pink tourmaline measures 9mm x 7mm. Opal gra...
Diamond, White Diamond, Opal, Tourmaline, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Colombian Emerald & GIA Diamond Bracelet in 18k White Gold, Gübelin Certified
Located in New York, NY
A museum-worthy creation of exceptional refinement, this high-jewelry bracelet features an extraordinary suite of 11 Colombian emeralds, all Gübelin-certified and gently treated with...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Late 20th Century Two Tone 9k Gold Bangle Circa 1990s
Located in ADELAIDE, SA
A classic hinged bangle from the late twentieth century crafted in bands of rose and white gold secured with an invisible hook catch. Metal: 9k rose and white gold - XRF tested Weig...
9k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold
18.09 Carat Natural Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Tennis Bracelet 18K White Gold
By Jewel Palate
Located in Deira, AE
The tennis bracelet is the most universally understood symbol in fine jewelry — and this one makes its statement entirely through the weight of what it carries. Eighteen carats of na...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White 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 ...
Virgin Mary Cuff Bracelet Sterling Silver Gold Religious Medallion Bangle
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Virgin Mary Cuff Bracelet Sterling Silver Gold Religious Medallion Bangle Designer: J DAUPHIN Virgin Mary cuff in solid sterling silver and 14k gold plated brass, an open two tone ...
Ruby, Gold Plate, Silver, Sterling Silver, Brass
26613 Tiffany Victoria Platinum 4.49ct Marquise Round Diamond Tennis Bracelet
Located in Chicago, IL
Bracelet is from Tiffany & Co. Victoria Collection Platinum diamond bracelet weighs 14.8g 48 round white diamonds, total weight 4.25ct 4 marquise white diamonds, total weight 0.24ct ...
Diamond, Platinum
David Yurman 18 Karat Yellow Gold Fluted Link Bracelet
By David Yurman
Located in Chevy Chase, MD
The David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold Fluted Link Bracelet is a stunning piece of fine jewelry that exudes elegance and sophistication. Crafted from 18K yellow gold with a fluted link des...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Chrome Hearts Cross Symbol Diamond 22 Karat Gold Bracelet
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: Authentic Chrome Hearts bracelet crafted in luxurious 22K yellow gold and accented with brilliant natural diamonds throughout. Featuring the brand’s iconic cross symbol ...
Diamond, Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold