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.
Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger Fern Leaf Diamond Brooch 18k Yellow Gold/Platinum
By Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co.
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger 5 leaf pin brooch in 18k yellow gold and platinum. Features 5 textured leaves and a floral center adorned with sparkling diamonds. This is an excepti...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Vintage 1990's Tiffany & Co. Moonstone and Diamond Brooch Platinum
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Incredible vintage Tiffany & Co. brooch with diamonds and moonstones. The moonstone are as clear as water with a strong blue adularescence that rolls across each stone. The diamonds ...
Diamond, Moonstone, Platinum
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. Sterling Silver Money Clip #24821
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Money Clip Sleek and timeless, this Tiffany & Co sterling silver money clip offers refined style and everyday function- perfect for keeping cas...
Sterling Silver
Iris Apfel Estate Personal Emporio Armani Lizard Brooch Pin Black Gemstone
Located in New York, NY
Indulge in a magnificent Armani treasure from the personal wardrobe of the legendary style icon Iris Apfel. We have her absolutely fabulous Emporio Armani lizard on a black faux diam...
Gilt Metal
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
$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
39.13 Carat Gray Moonstone Diamond Sapphire 18k White Gold Spider Brooch 1950s
Located in Towson, MD
Crafted in 18k white gold, this 1950s Mid-Century spider brooch centers a 39.13 carat gray oval moonstone measuring approximately 1.14 x 0.66 inches, its abdomen catching light with ...
Diamond, Moonstone, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
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
$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
Madeleine Albright's Lizard Pin Brooch 7.5" Articulated And "Read My Pins" Book
Located in New York, NY
Indulge in a piece of American History with Madeleine Albright's Lizard Pin Brooch, along with a copy of her book "Read My Pins: Stories From A Diplomat's Jewel Box." The lizard bro...
18K Gold Shell Brooch with Ruby and Diamond
Located in Monte Carlo, MC
This brooch, offered by Claris-A, is crafted in 18K yellow gold and features a ribbed shell form. The structure is hollow, allowing for volume without excessive weight. A cabochon ru...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$3,367Sale Price|25% Off
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
$1,980Sale Price|20% Off
Vintage Hand-Carved Multi-Gemstone Flower Basket Brooch in 14K Yellow Gold
Located in Wan Chai District, HK
This enchanting flower basket brooch captures the whimsy of a garden in full bloom through hand-carved gemstone flowers set in warm 14K yellow gold. Five delicate blossoms spill from...
Amethyst, Multi-gemstone, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Aquamarine Hypercalmous Carved 18K Brooch
Located in Cohasset, MA
18K aquamarine seahorse pin 2 x21/2" wide with sapphire eye
Aquamarine, 18k Gold
14K YG/WG Diamond Ruby Emerald Lion Brooch
Located in New York, NY
A charming and highly expressive diamond, emerald, and ruby loin brooch, masterfully sculpted in textured 14K yellow gold and white gold. The playful lion is depicted with an oversiz...
Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, White 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
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
$637Sale Price|35% Off
18K Yellow Gold Vintage Red Hard Stone Ladybug Brooch
Located in New York, NY
A Whimsical Nod to Nature’s Charm and Grace Elevate your accessory game with this ladybug-inspired brooch, crafted in 18K yellow gold and accented by lustrous hardstone, maybe red co...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany Co Vintage Paloma Picasso Rare Modernist 1.60 Inch 18 Karat Gold Brooch
By Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co.
Located in New York, NY
Paloma Picasso is a jewelry designer and artist who is the daughter of famous painter Pablo Picasso. She has worked with many high-end fashion and jewelry brands over the years, including Tiffany & Co. In 1980, Paloma Picasso began designing jewelry for Tiffany & Co. and has since become one of the brand's most iconic designers. Hallmarked Paloma Picasso Tiffany and Co...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Mouse Brooch with Ruby Eyes, Late 20th Century, USA
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
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
$1,688Sale Price|20% Off
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
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Money Clip # 24486
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Money Clip - This genuine Tiffany & Co. solid sterling silver money clip with classic rectangular bend design. Size: 2 1/4" x 1 3/4" Weight: ...
Sterling Silver
Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Diamond and Ruby Bulldog Brooch
Located in Morris Plains, NJ
A distinctive vintage bulldog brooch manufactured by Gordon Brothers Corp. circa 1995. Executed in rich 18K yellow gold, this finely sculpted piece captures the beloved bulldog motif with remarkable detail and character. The design is pavé-set with approximately 50 natural round diamonds totaling 0.51 carats (0.51ctw), creating brilliant texture and dimension throughout. Two vibrant ruby accents form the eyes, adding warmth and expressive personality. The diamonds are white/colorless and beautifully contrast against the polished gold surface. The brooch measures approximately 1.23 inches in length and weighs 8.9 grams (5.7 dwt), offering a substantial yet wearable feel. Handcrafted with careful attention to detail, this piece reflects the bold gold styling and refined diamond workmanship popular in the 1990s. Details: Metal: 18K Yellow Gold Weight: 8.9g (5.7 dwt) Total Diamond Weight: 0.51ctw Number of Diamonds: 50 Secondary Stone: Ruby (2 stones) Setting: Pavé Length: 1.20 inches (3cm) This charming 18K gold bulldog brooch is especially appealing to collectors and alumni of schools known for their iconic bulldog mascots, including Yale Bulldogs and Georgia Bulldogs...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
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 ...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. ruby 18k yellow gold enamel turtle brooch
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This delightful vintage turtle brooch by Tiffany & Co. captures the brand’s playful yet refined approach to design. Sculpted in rich 18k yellow gold, the turtle form is brought to li...
Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
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 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
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.
Amethyst, Ruby, Sapphire, Tsavorite, Diamond Parrot Brooch in 18K White Gold
Located in Bangkok, TH
Amethyst 53.20 carats, Ruby 18.88 carats, Onyx, Blue Sapphire 9.11 carats, Tsavorite 7.80 carats and Diamond 3.60 carats Brooch set in 18 Karat White Gold Settings Width: 4.0 cm L...
Amethyst, Diamond, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Tsavorite, 18k Gold, White Gold
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
$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
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
$4,900Sale Price / item|20% Off
2.17 TCW Certified Diamond Zambian Emerald Pin Brooch 18k White Gold
Located in Diera, AE
Crafted to celebrate everyday elegance, our jewelry blends timeless design with modern craftsmanship. Each piece is thoughtfully made using high-quality materials, ensuring lasting s...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold, Gold
$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
Vintage diamond peridot 18k yellow gold cat brooch
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A charming vintage statement from the 1970s, this delightful cat brooch captures personality and craftsmanship in glowing 18k yellow gold. Seven sparkling rose cut diamonds accent th...
Diamond, Peridot, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
925 Sterling Silver Horse Agate Cameo Stick Pin Lapel Pin Brooch for Men
Located in Jaipur, Rajasthan
925 sterling silver horse agate cameo stick pin lapel pin brooch for men Thinking of how to leave an everlasting impression for that important meeting...
Agate, Sterling Silver
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,...
$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...
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
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$11,700Sale Price|35% Off
Oscar Heyman Platinum Union Jack Diamond, Sapphire, and Ruby Lapel Pin
By Oscar Heyman
Located in New York City, NY
Oscar Heyman platinum Union Jack flag lapel pin contains custom cut rubies (0.76cts), sapphires (0.64cts) and round diamonds (0.05cts). It is a gently w...
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, Platinum
Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Wheat Sheaf Brooch/Pin #23734
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold and Diamond Wheat Sheaf Brooch/Pin- This elegant brooch by Tiffany & Co. depicts a sheaf of wheat - a timeless symbol...
Diamond, 18k 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
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
$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
Nina Zhou One-of-a-Kind 20.9ctw Turquoise Diamond Butterfly Opal Brooch-Pendant
By Nina Zhou
Located in Newport Beach, CA
A singular composition where light, movement, and fire converge. This 21.15ctw one-of-a-kind brooch-pendant's center rests an oval natural opal weighing 17.40 carats—an extraordinar...
Diamond, Turquoise, Opal, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Casbah Multi Gemstone and Diamond Peacock Brooch/Pendant 18 Karat Gold
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
From the celebrated atelier of Casbah, this magnificent peacock brooch/pendant is a testament to the art of fine jewelry. Four of nature's most extraordinary gemstones — the iridesce...
Coral, Diamond, Opal, Turquoise, Multi-gemstone, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, ...
$19,736 / item
Foraminifera Brooch by Capucine H
Located in Geneve, CH
Foraminifera Brooch by Capucine H Dimensions: Unique size Materials: 18k recycled gold, recycled chromated silver, citrine 9.7 carats, sapphires The Foraminifera brooch is inspired ...
Citrine, Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Silver
$966Sale Price|40% Off
18K Yellow Gold 3D Frog Brooch with Green Enamel, Vintage Charm
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
Syna Yellow Gold Starburst Pin Pendant with Emerald and Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Emerald 0.25 carat approx. Diamonds 0.50 carat approx. Limited Edition About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing inspiration from little thin...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$23,616Sale 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
$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
14K Yellow Gold Entremblant Butterfly Brooch with Diamonds & Gemstone Accents
Located in New York, NY
Delicately crafted and rich in movement, this exquisite entremblant butterfly brooch captures the artistry of fine jewelry design. Fashioned in luminous 14K yellow gold, the piece fe...
Diamond, Emerald, Ruby, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso 18K Yellow Gold Love & Kisses Brooch/Pin #24183
By Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso 18K Yellow Gold Love & Kisses XOXO Brooch/Pin- This iconic XOXO pin by Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co. is crafted in beautifully detailed 1...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Joan Rivers Iconic Red Flower Brooch Pin Photos Worn On The View Tribeca Film
Located in New York, NY
We are thrilled to offer Joan Rivers' iconic red flower brooch which she wore at important events throughout her illustrious life along with photos of Joan wearing this red brooch on...
14K Rose Gold Garnet, Sapphire & Diamond Beetle Brooch #22388
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Rose Gold Garnet, Sapphire and Diamond Beetle Brooch JAGi Certified Crafted in 14K rose gold, this captivating beetle brooch features an oval cabochon garnet, 3 natural pink sap...
Diamond, Garnet, Pink Sapphire, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
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
Oscar Heyman Gold 30 Carat One of a Kind Black Opal Snacking Fish Brooch
By Oscar Heyman
Located in New York City, NY
Oscar Heyman 18kt yellow gold and platinum brooch contains an extraordinarily fine fancy shape Australian black opal weighing 30.63cts. This unique piece also contains 97 round diamonds (1.08cts, F/ VS) and 1 pear shape black opal...
Diamond, Opal, Black Opal, Gold, Platinum
Late 1950s Gold & Ruby Brutalist Walter Schleup Brooch
Located in Maywood, NJ
Bruatlist jewelery design is fully embodied in this 14k gold and ruby brooch, meticulously crafted by Walter Schleup in his Montreal studio. "Walter Schluep, who trained as a jewel...
Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold