Contemporary jewelry is inextricably linked with the moment in which it is created, frequently reflecting current social, cultural and political issues such as environmental consciousness, identity and sustainability. It’s informed by fashion trends, from the chokers of the 1990s to the large chain necklaces of the early 2000s.
Jewelry is one of the oldest forms of adornment. Lockets made of silver or gold have been treasured gifts for hundreds of years, for example, and charm bracelets, which have existed since prehistoric times, didn’t become especially popular until the 19th-century reign of Queen Victoria. For many centuries, fine jewelry was used primarily to express wealth or status through lavish materials. Then, in the 1960s, a concept known as the “critique of preciousness” emerged, with jewelers creating pieces that did not get their value from gemstones or precious metals. Instead, it was the jeweler’s artistic vision that was prized and elevated.
This shift still informs Contemporary jewelry being made by artists today. Whether they are using cheap, found materials and working with provocative geometric shapes or seeking out the rarest stones, they are imbuing their work with meaning through their skills, techniques and ideas. Innovative designers such as Elsa Peretti, who popularized sculptural sterling-silver jewelry for Tiffany & Co., and David Yurman, who twisted metal into the simple yet striking Cable bracelet, have also influenced the direction of Contemporary jewelry’s forms and aesthetics.
Meanwhile, technological advancements like metal alloys and laser engraving have led to new possibilities in jewelry design. Now, edgy makers and brands as well as minimalist designers are pushing Contemporary jewelry forward into the 21st century.
Find a collection of Contemporary rings, earrings, necklaces and other jewelry on 1stDibs.
Vintage Lunch at The Ritz Wild at Heart Brooch Romantic Swarovski Statement Pin
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Vintage Lunch at the Ritz oversized Wild at Heart romantic brooch with dangling moveable heart elements by original designer Esme Hecht. Iconic American wearable art statement jewelr...
Crystal, Gold Plate
Vintage Lunch at The Ritz Red Macaw Parrot Brooch Moveable Enamel Statement Pin
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Vintage Lunch at the Ritz oversized Rainbow Macaw parrot brooch with articulated moveable wings by original designer Esme Hecht. Iconic American wearable art statement jewelry. Drama...
Crystal, Gold Plate, Brass, Enamel
Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold Sea Urchin Pin/Brooch #24504
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold Sea Urchin Pin/Brooch- This striking Tiffany brooch is sculpted as a dimensional sea urchin, covered in fine radiating spikes that catch light from...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Heidi Daus "Fabulous Tabby" Crystal-Embellished Cat Brooch in Antiqued Gold
By Heidi Daus
Located in Milford, DE
Dimensions: 3 x 2 inches Hallmarks/Marks: "Heidi Daus" "CHINA" Whimsical elegance meets vintage glamour in this dazzling Heidi Daus "Fabulous Tabby" brooch, a stunning feline-inspi...
Crystal, Gold Plate
$275Sale Price / set|50% Off
Silvorra Floral Bouquet Emerald Sapphire Tourmaline Brooch Pendant in Diamonds
Located in New York, NY
A beautifully crafted 925 sterling silver brooch cum pendant featuring a vibrant mix of natural emeralds, glass filled-sapphires, and tourma...
Emerald, Sapphire, Tourmaline, Diamond, Silver, Sterling Silver
Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Multi-Stone Birds on Branches Brooch Pin
Located in New York, NY
Celebrate the beauty of nature with this exquisite vintage brooch crafted in 14K yellow gold. Designed as a delicate network of tree limbs, it features three charming birds perched g...
Jade, Lapis Lazuli, Yellow Gold
Syna Yellow Gold Sunburst Pin with Pink Tourmaline and Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Pink Tourmaline 1.40 carats approx. Diamonds 0.55 carat approx. Limited Edition About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing inspiration from li...
Diamond, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. 2000's Diamond 18 Karat Yellow Gold Dogwood Flower Brooch
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed as a dimensional flower with furling gold petals and clustered diamond centers Round brilliant cut and weighing approximately 0.38 carat total - G color with VS2 clarity Pet...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$30,000Sale Price|55% Off
Oscar Heyman 18k Gold & Fancy Yellow Diamond 'Prowling Lion' Brooch
By Oscar Heyman
Located in New York City, NY
Oscar Heyman 18k yellow gold 'prowling lion' brooch contains a 0.01ct round emerald eye, 22 round diamonds (0.18ct, F-G/VS+), and 154 round fancy yellow diamonds (4.73ct). It is sta...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
$24,000Sale Price|45% Off
Oscar Heyman Gold Diamond and Ruby Bow Brooch
By Oscar Heyman
Located in New York City, NY
This Oscar Heyman 18kt yellow gold brooch contains 2.55cts of calibré rubies and 3.95cts round diamonds (F-G/VS+). The rubies are cut by hand in Oscar Heyman's Madison Avenue workshop by the lapidary. The diamonds are bead set. Azures (cut outs) behind the gemstones and diamonds allow maximum light to shine through this piece, illustrating the finest principles of jewelry manufacturing. It is stamped with the makers mark, 18K, and serial number 74869. Comes in an Oscar Heyman brooch box. This brooch measures 49mm x 30mm x 11mm. It has a standard rollover safety clasp. It is light enough to wear on a shirt without pulling. Bows are a timeless ornament and this gemstone-encrusted version even more so! Oscar Heyman was founded in 1912 and became known as the 'Jewelers' Jeweler'® for creating pieces for Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, and Tiffany & Co. Oscar Heyman jewelry...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold
14K Yellow Gold Mouse Brooch with Ruby Eyes and Flexible Tail
Located in New York, NY
Charming, whimsical, and utterly collectible — this handmade 14K Yellow Gold Mouse Brooch captures the playful spirit of fine jewelry design. Expertl...
Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$12,800Sale Price|20% Off
Michael Kneebone Amethyst Citrine Topaz Pink Sapphire Diamond Flower Pendant
Located in Austin, TX
A carved mother-of-pearl flower forms the foundation for this elegant one-of-a-kind combination pendant and brooch. Pear shaped cabochons of amethyst, citrine, blue topaz and green ...
Amethyst, Citrine, Diamond, Pink Sapphire, Topaz, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. 18 Karat Yellow Gold Bamboo Circle Pin Brooch Italy
Located in Baltimore, MD
Tiffany & Co. 18 Karat Yellow Gold Bamboo Circle Pin Brooch Italy Metal: 18k yellow gold Weight: 6.43 grams Diameter: 38mm Signed: Tiffany &...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,493 / item
Small Abstract Orchid Brooch by Claudia Lepik
Located in Geneve, CH
Small Abstract Orchid Brooch by Claudia Lepik Dimensions: D 10.6 x W 9 x H 1.4 cm Materials: Rhodium-plated sterling silver Claudia Lepik is a jewellery artist who is intrigued by ...
Sterling Silver
Estate 18K White Gold Invisible Set Sapphire Diamond Large Flower Brooch 23.70ct
Located in Winter Springs, FL
A striking estate floral brooch crafted in 18K white gold, designed with bold dimensional form and invisibly set with calibrated natural blue sapphires totaling approximately 22.00 ...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Tiffany & Co. Platinum Diamond Butterfly Brooch
Located in New York, NY
A Timeless Blend of Nature-Inspired Design and Tiffany’s Refined Craftsmanship Enhance your jewelry collection with this Vintage Tiffany & Co. Butterfly Brooch, impeccably rendered i...
Diamond, Platinum
Tiffany & Company Sterling Silver Calla Lily Brooch #23957
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Company Sterling Silver Calla Lily Brooch This Tiffany & Co Calla Lily Brooch captures the quiet beauty of one of natures most iconic blooms, symbolizing purity, r...
Sterling Silver
$2,518Sale Price|35% Off
Platinum 1.75 Inch Flower Cluster Spray Brooch Diamond Leaves and Sapphires
Located in New York, NY
Introducing our exquisite vintage Platinum Flower Cluster Spray Brooch, measuring 1.75 inch width and 0.95 inch length, a true masterpiece of elegance and craftsmanship. This breatht...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Platinum
$48,000Sale Price|20% Off
Harry Winston Platinum Diamond Flower Brooch 6.30 Carats
Located in Chicago, IL
An exceptional and highly collectible diamond brooch by the legendary house of Harry Winston, universally regarded as one of the most prestigious names in high jewelry. This magnific...
Diamond, Platinum
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Cat Brooch #24208
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Cat Brooch- This beautifully sculpted brooch by Tiffany & Co. features a sleek feline crafted in meti...
Sterling Silver
Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Swan Brooch with Diamonds and Rubies
Located in New York, NY
Metal: 14K Yellow Gold (Stamped 585, maker’s mark) Gemstones: Brilliant-cut Diamonds, approx. 0.65 carat total weight; Vibrant Ruby accents Weight: 3.52 grams Measurements: Approx. 0...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold Mother of Pearl Onyx and Diamond Ladybug Pin
Located in Troy, MI
Looking adorable on your shoulder or lapel, this vintage 18 karat yellow gold ladybug pin with inlaid mother of pearl, onyx and diamonds would be a great addition to your collection....
Diamond, Onyx, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K Yellow Gold Vintage 3D Frog Brooch with Green Spotted Enamel Details
Located in New York, NY
A Playful Nod to Nature’s Charm Bring a dash of whimsy and bright color to your wardrobe with this 3D Frog Brooch crafted in 18K yellow gold, adorned with green spotted enamel detail...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Antique 18ct Gold Dog Brooch 1970’s
Located in Brighton, GB
Vintage Gold & Enamel Dog Brooch 18ct Gold tagged & tested Circa 1970’s Cute, vintage dog with a rub over set, diamond encrusted tail & gorgeous, natural ruby eye. He also boasts ...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold
Vintage Tiffany & Company Diamond Brooch in 18 Karat Gold, Platinum
Located in Boston, MA
Aston Estate Jewelry Presents: A distinguished Tiffany & Company star form brooch from 1970, showcasing stunning artistry and craftsmanship. The design features brilliant-cut d...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Platinum
Oscar Heyman Gold and Platinum Pave Diamond "Two Kitty" Brooch
By Oscar Heyman
Located in New York City, NY
Oscar Heyman 18kt yellow gold and platinum "Two Kitty" brooch contains a 189 round diamonds weighing 3.14cts (F-G/VS+) and 4 round emeralds as the eyes. It is stamped with the makers...
Diamond, Gold, Platinum
Hydrangea Blossom 9.75ctw Turquoise Aquamarine Diamond Brooch/Pendant
By Nina Zhou
Located in Rowland Heights, CA
A poetic ode to the lush fullness of hydrangeas, this convertible brooch and pendant captures the charm of a summer garden in full bloom. Petals of smooth turquoise radiate outward i...
Turquoise, Diamond, Aquamarine, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
$5,600Sale Price|60% Off
18K White Gold 17.2mm Wide Freeform South Sea Pearl & 1.66ctw Diamond Brooch
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
A sculptural floral brooch that celebrates organic elegance and rare materials. Crafted in solid 18k white gold, the piece features two impressive free‑form Golden South Sea pearls, ...
Diamond, Pearl, South Sea Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
Mid-Century 14k White Gold Cultured Pearl Diamond Brooch, 1950s
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This Mid-Century brooch is a striking expression of balance, brilliance, and refined design. At its heart rests a softly lustrous cultured pearl, offering a gentle focal point that a...
Diamond, Cultured Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Emerald, Ruby, Blue Sapphire and Diamond Parrot Brooch 18K White Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Emerald 47.05 carats, Ruby 8.88 carats, Blue Sapphire 9.11 carats, Tsavorite 7.80 carats, Diamond 3.60 carats and Onyx Parrot Brooch set in 18K White Gold ...
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Tsavorite, 18k Gold, White ...
Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Sapphire Emerald Fleur Brooch
Located in New York, NY
An exquisite expression of Van Cleef & Arpels artistry, this Fleur brooch embodies the maison’s signature elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. Crafted in 18k yellow gold, the flor...
Sapphire, Emerald, Diamond, Platinum, Yellow Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold,...
Green Enamel Frog Pin, Circa 1980, in 18 Karat Gold with 0.40 Carats Diamonds
Located in Sherman Oaks, CA
If you're kissed by a toad, you get warts. Isn't that the legend? What if the warts are made out of diamonds? This beautifully made little green treefrog in 18 karat gold has been...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
$4,560Sale Price / item|20% Off
Luxury 2.24Ct Diamond Panther Brooch Pendant in 14k White Gold with Emerald Eyes
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This luxury panther brooch pendant is crafted in 14k white gold, set with 2.24 carats of round brilliant cut diamonds that shimmer across the sleek body. The eyes feature 0.74 carats...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
18k pin. Horse head reverse crystal, hand painted, antiqued
Located in Cohasset, MA
a beautiful 18k horse pin. Hand painted on mother of pearl, reverse crystal. One of a kind.
$24,800Sale Price|20% Off
Tiffany & Co. Irid Platinum Circular Diamond Pin Brooch
Located in Chicago, IL
This elegant Tiffany & Co. diamond circle pin brooch is finely crafted in iridized platinum and showcases a refined circular design set with round brilliant-cut diamonds arranged...
Diamond, Platinum
$1,590 / item
Mid Century Turquoise Dog Brooch 18 KT
Located in Napoli, IT
Little Friend This gorgeous mid century brooch is Italian origin 1950 ca Hand modelled of solid 18 kt gold like a fancy little dog, beautifully made, hand sculptured, the main body c...
Turquoise, 18k Gold
Mikimoto 14 Karat Yellow Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl Tree of Life Brooch Pin
By Mikimoto
Located in Baltimore, MD
Mikimoto 14 Karat Yellow Gold Akoya Cultured Pearl Tree of Life Brooch Pin Metal: 14k yellow gold Weight: 5.89 grams Pearls: 4 - 5.5mm Dimensions: 30 x 35mm Retail: $2,550 USD ADD F3...
Cultured Pearl, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Garavelli 18 Karat White Gold, 4.58 Carat Diamond Turtle Brooch with Citrines
By Garavelli Aldo
Located in New York, NY
The turtle signifies good health and long life. The hard shell represents perseverance and protection. This 18 karat white gold turtle brooch is beautifully set with a shell of diamo...
Citrine, Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Italian Buccelatti 18K Gold Flower Bouquet Brooch
By Buccellati
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A captivating brooch intricately designed in the form of two blooming roses. The petals and leaves are crafted with exquisite detail, showcasing the artistry of Buccellati. Construct...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold
Red Coral Maltese Black Enamel Diamond Sapphire Cuff Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Daring colors of gems give this bracelet a striking design. An 18k yellow gold cuff is covered with black enamel, allowing the gold to glint on the top and bottom. In the middle, pre...
Coral, Diamond, White Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, ...
Roberto Legnazzi 18 Karat Yellow Gold Bullfrog Brooch with Diamond Eyes
Located in New York, NY
Designed in Italy by Roberto Legnazzi is a whimsical 18 karat yellow gold bullfrog brooch. The brooch is designed in a high polished yellow gold set w...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$117Sale Price|40% Off
Pair of Gold Metal Dragon and Phoenix Chinese Hair Pins
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
Embrace the beauty and symbolism of traditional Chinese culture with this stunning pair of gold metal hair pins featuring the iconic Dragon and Phoeni...
2.50 Ct Natural Sapphire .70 Ct Diamond Fly Brooch
Located in Napoli, IT
Mesmerizing Fly This stunning mid century fly brooch is 1960 ca Utterly beautiful quality, superbly designed, hand crafted as unique of solid 18 kt gold Main body is overwhelmed by r...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Mid-20th Century Tiffany & Co. Garnet Flower 14 Karat Yellow & Rose Gold Brooch
Located in Boca Raton, FL
This vintage Tiffany & Co. garnet flower brooch is beautifully crafted in 14 karat yellow and rose gold, showcasing a graceful floral design accented with rich red garnets that a...
Garnet, Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold
Ruby with Diamond Flower Brooch/Pendant Set in 18 Karat Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Ruby 9.33 carats with Diamond 0.71 carat Brooch/Pendant set in 18 Karat Gold Settings (chain not included) Width: 2.7 cm Length: 3.8 cm "Since we first opened doors in 1980 our st...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold
Tiffany and Co. Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Diamond Bow Love Knot Brooch
Located in New York, NY
A Timeless Emblem of Elegance and Grace Indulge in the enduring beauty of this Tiffany & Co. Vintage Diamond Bow Love Knot Brooch, crafted in 14K yellow gold and set with three spark...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 2.74tcw Pave Diamond 14k Yellow Gold Bow Brooch 1980s
Located in Towson, MD
This spectacular 1980s vintage 14k yellow gold diamond bow brooch is a true statement collectible, showcasing a substantial 27.29 gram gold construction and 2.74 carats of brilliant ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Nina Zhou Butterfly 3.75ctw Natural Turquoise & Diamond Brooch
By Nina Zhou
Located in Rowland Heights, CA
Embrace the beauty of transformation with the Nina Zhou Butterfly 3.75 ctw Natural Turquoise & Diamond Brooch in Yellow Gold. This exquisite brooch showcases a stunning butterfly...
Diamond, Turquoise, 14k Gold
Natural Turquoise Diamond Gold Pendant Brooch Necklace
Located in Valenza , IT
Hand carved pendant in natural turquoise 18 kt white gold and diamonds, it can be worn either as a necklace and a brooch. Handmade in Margherita Burgener family workshop based in Ita...
Diamond, White Diamond, Turquoise, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$23,497Sale Price|20% Off
Eighteen Karat Gold Brooch with GRS Certified Pigeon's Blood Ruby and Diamonds
Located in Berlin, DE
The certificate for the gem is available upon request. This Juniper contemporary sculptural brooch for men or women is made of 18 karat white gold, and ...
Diamond, Rubelite, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Sirius Diamond Brooch in 18K Gold
Located in New York, NY
Illuminate any collection with the captivating presence of this Van Cleef & Arpels Diamond Sirius Brooch, a luminous creation from the 1980s that feels both sculptural and celestial....
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Tiffany & Co. 18 Karat Yellow Gold and Sapphire Leaf Brooch/Pin #21564
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. 18 Karat Yellow Gold and Sapphire Leaf Brooch/Pin This exquisite brooch by Tiffany & Co. features a beautifully detailed three-leaf design crafted in 18K yellow gold a...
Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA/Guild 18K 1.22 Ct Vibrant Kijani Green Tsavorite&Diamond Brooches
Located in Kaohsiung City, TW
*GIA/Guild 18K 1.22 Ct Vibrant Kijani Green Tsavorite and Diamonds Brooch* GIA/Guild-certified natural vibrant Kijani Tsavorite weighing 1.22 ct set on the 18K white gold band with...
Diamond, Tsavorite, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Cellini 18 Karat Yellow Gold Brooch 19.85 Carat Natural Fancy Colored Diamonds
By Cellini
Located in New York, NY
A floral spiral of varied natural fancy color diamonds in various shapes with white diamond accents. Fancy colored diamonds include yellow,orange,chartreuse, and brown. Set in 18 kar...
Diamond, White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Brown Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow ...
$2,240Sale Price|20% Off
Scorpion Brooch Italian 18 Karat Yellow Gold Enamel Diamond Emerald
Located in Austin, TX
This whimsical scorpion brooch created in Italy of 18k yellow gold with multicolored enamel, pave diamonds and emerald eyes is full of character and ch...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Tiffany & Co. Yellow Gold Large Bow Brooch Pin
Located in New York, NY
Tiffany & Co. Gold Bow Brooch 18K Yellow Gold The pin is 3.5" length x 1.5" Wide The pin weighs 16.0 grams
Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
$8,432Sale Price / item|20% Off
Statement 12.5 CTW Sapphire 2.35 CTW Diamond Flower Brooch in 18k White Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
Statement 12.5 CTW Sapphire 2.35 CTW Diamond Flower Brooch in 18K White Gold which is a fusion of surrealism and pop-art, designed to make a bold statement. Crafted with love and att...
Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Estate 18K Wise Owl Diamond Ruby Lapis MOP Cabochon Amethyst Pin Pendant
Located in Winter Springs, FL
A whimsical “wise owl” brooch beautifully done in 18K yellow and white gold set with lapis, mother of pearl, .30cttw in G-I color Vs diamonds throughout as well as rubies for the eye...
Amethyst, Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Invisible-Set Ruby Diamond 18K White Gold Bloom Flower Brooch
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A contemporary brooch showcasing a vibrant floral motif. The design features a large flower with petals encrusted in 17.30 carats of fancy shaped vivid red rubies. Van Cleef and Arpe...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Wabi-Sabi Contemporary Man Brooch in Sterling Silver N1 Designed by the Artist
Located in Berlin, DE
This contemporary silver brooch is part of the Bamboo collection, designed by Berlin-based oil painter Polya Medvedeva. Originally created as a triptych to be worn together in the Ch...
Silver, Sterling Silver