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Modern Drop Earrings

MODERN STYLE

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.

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Style: Modern
14K Yellow Gold Pear-Shaped Green Onyx Diamond Earrings 1.36Cttw
Located in New York, NY
Bring prosperity and luck with these extra deep green statement earrings that will get you noticed. Pear Shape Green Onyx set with 1.36cttw of...
Category

2010s American Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Onyx, Yellow Gold

Angel Skin Coral Diamond Yellow Gold Vintage Drop Dangle Earrings
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Beautiful coral and diamond vintage drop earrings crafted in 14 karat yellow gold. The earrings feature angel skin coral gemstone and round brilliant and rose cut diamonds. The 96 di...
Category

Late 20th Century Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Coral, Diamond, Yellow Gold

1.25 CTW Black Diamond Rose Gold Modern Drop Leaf Earrings
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Black diamond leaf earrings fashioned in 14 karat rose gold. The earrings feature 176 round brilliant black diamonds weighing approximately 1.25 CTW. The leafs measure 10 x 30mm. Pos...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Black Diamond, Rose Gold

4.15 CTW Square Emerald Cut Diamond In & Out Hoop Earrings 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Modern and timeless diamond hoop earrings crafted in 18 karat white gold. The earrings feature 58 square emerald cut diamonds weighing 4.15 carat total weight. The diamonds are grade...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Diamond 18 Karat Yellow Gold Handcrafted Snake Drop Earrings Leverbacks
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Fabulous diamond snake earrings handcrafted in 18 karat yellow gold. The earrings feature 38 round brilliant cut diamonds weighing approximately .40 CTW and graded G-H color and SI c...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Gilded Rose Flower Wreath Drop Earrings, 1960s
Located in McKinney, TX
- Vintage item - Collectible costume jewelry piece from the mid-century - Each earring measures 2.25" x 1.75" - Gold plated - Floral motif with three dimensional rosebud flowers ...
Category

1960s Unknown Vintage Modern Drop Earrings

Diamond 18 Karat White Gold Hoop Star Dangle Earrings
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Diamond hoop star dangle earrings fashioned in 18 karat white gold. The hoops and stars feature 38 round brilliant cut diamonds weighing .46 carat total weight and graded H-I color a...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

Wedding Earrings Emerald Diamond Earrings, Pave Diamond Bar Dangle Earrings
Located in Austin, TX
These earrings are made to order and can be custom made in white gold, yellow gold, rose gold and with emeralds or sapphires. The earrings are perfect for a wedding and take 3 to 5 ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold, White Gold

Diamond Green Russalite Drop Earrings, Victorian Inspired Pave Diamond Halo
Located in Austin, TX
Green Russalite is a genuine, untreated, natural gemstone that is was discovered in 1988 in Siberia. Because of the frozen ground, it can only be mined...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold

21st Century Pair Of Sapphires Birds Gold Diamonds Drop Earrings Omega
Located in Valencia, ES
21st Century Pair Of Sapphires Birds Gold Diamonds Drop Earrings Omega 5.36 Carat Sapphires in triangular cut, 2.56 Carat Diamonds of 3.50 mm and 0'15 Carat Diamonds of 1 mm, 18 Karat Yellow Gold, White Gold and 24 Karat drop Earrings. Introducing our exquisite drop earrings from the enchanting series "The Silk Road." These earrings are more than just jewelry; they embody a profound allegory that speaks to the essence of life itself. Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, these earrings feature a captivating design that captures the imagination. The centerpiece of these earrings is the eight-pointed star fountain, symbolizing the source of life's energy and vitality. The radiant 18 Karat Yellow Gold, White Gold, and 24 Karat accents further enhance the elegance of the design. Glistening with the brilliance of 5.36 Carat triangular-cut sapphires, these earrings evoke a sense of mystery and allure. Each sapphire is carefully selected to embody the beauty and depth of the deep blue waters, reflecting the timeless allure of the Silk Road. Complementing the sapphires are 2.56 Carat diamonds, delicately faceted in a 3.50 mm size, and 0.15 Carat diamonds measuring 1 mm in diameter. These diamonds add a mesmerizing sparkle, reminiscent of the shimmering water that cascades from the fountain. Symbolizing purity and strength, the diamonds embody the essence of everlasting beauty. Wearing these earrings is akin to immersing oneself in a narrative that transcends time and culture. They invite you to embrace the wisdom and mystique of the Silk Road, where civilizations converged and exchanged precious treasures. Embrace the allure of our Silk Road drop earrings and experience the magic of Vicente Gracia's craftsmanship. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted to perfection, ensuring a timeless treasure that will captivate for generations to come. Indulge in the journey of discovery and elegance with our Silk Road drop earrings. Unveil the secrets of the ancient trade...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Spanish Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, 24k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold

Vintage Tri Gold Round Earrings 14 Karat Rose White Statement Fine Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
Elegant pair of vintage earrings (circa 1970s to 1980s), crafted in 14k yellow, rose & white gold. The round Italian made earrings feature three layers of gold (yellow, white & ros...
Category

Late 20th Century Italian Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

6 Carat Royal Blue Topaz and Diamond Earring Dangles 14 Karat Gold London Blue
Located in Austin, TX
You won't believe how much these earrings sparkle! These gorgeous 14k white gold vibrant royal blue topaz dangle earrings dripping with 36 excellent white diamonds are absolutely stu...
Category

2010s American Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Topaz, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold

Diamond Pave Earring Dangles 14K Gold 1/2 Carat '0.50 Carat' Diamond 14 Karat
Located in Austin, TX
Would you like to sparkle and glitter from every angle? It's possible with these amazing diamond disk earrings that are 200 pave set diamonds! ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

1 Carat Diamond Bar Earring Dangles 18 Karat Gold 1.00 Carat Diamond Drops
Located in Austin, TX
The diamond bar dangle earrings are modern and gorgeous. With two pave diamond bars linked together to created a dynamic movement that moves with you perfectly. Each bar has round br...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold

Half Carat Diamond Oval Hoop Inside Out Hoop Earrings 14 Karat White Gold
Located in Austin, TX
These extra large diamond inside out hoops are a staple in any fine jewelry collection. The elongated oval diameter is a unique hoop shape that's perfect for any occasion. They can b...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold

Diamond Arrow Earring Dangles in 14 Karat Gold Pave Diamond Point Drop Earrings
Located in Austin, TX
The diamond arrow earring dangles are modern and beautiful! With round brilliant diamonds pave set across the top of two arrow shapes. The earrings are made with separate pieces that...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, Rose Gold, Gold

Diamond Drop Earrings, 14 Karat Gold 3 Diamond Shape Links Dangle Earrings
Located in Austin, TX
14K Yellow Gold Diamond Shape Diamond Dangle Earrings: These drop earrings are stunning! Created with a stylish woman in mind, the three diamond...
Category

2010s American Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Original Emerald and Diamond Earring Dangles in 14 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in Austin, TX
The gorgeous 14 karat yellow gold, genuine emerald, and diamond earring dangles are so special and stunning! With a natural emerald gemstone set in each earring. The emerald gemstones have been cut into emerald shapes. The emerald shape was designed to showcase the natural colors and graining in emerald gemstones. These emerald have a vibrant and intense green color that is complimenting and alluring. Set with a diamond halo that contrasts with the green color perfectly. The diamond frame has round brilliant diamonds that are G-H color and VS-2 clarity. The diamonds add character and a little extra sparkle to this design! The earrings have a hinged back that has round brilliant diamonds covering the front. The emerald hand like charms from the hinge backs and move with you. The added movement of the emeralds allows them to catch the light at different angles and sparkle everywhere! Emeralds represent the month of May! These would be a great May birthday gift, Mother’s Day gift, or May anniversary gift! But emeralds can be gifted and worn at any time of year! Emeralds are a classic gemstone that has been worn to represent beauty and bold life for centuries! Add these diamond and emerald earring dangles...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

White Diamonds, Red Coral, 18K White Gold Clip-on Fashion Design Earrings
Located in Marcianise, Marcianise (CE)
SHIPPING POLICY: No additional costs will be added to this order. Shipping costs will be totally covered by the seller (customs duties included). PS: THIS POLICY IS NOT APPLICABLE ...
Category

Early 2000s Italian Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Coral, White Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold

0.28 Carat Pear Round Diamond 18 Karat White Gold Pink Corundum Drop Earrings
Located in London, GB
Beautiful Pink Synthetic Corundum, looks like vibrant pink sapphire 15 mm x 8 mm Drop Earrings featuring 0.28 Carat Pear and Round Diamonds Color H Clarity SI1. Perfect for any occa...
Category

2010s British Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Quartz, Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold

0.40 Carat Diamond and Pearl 14 Karat White Gold Drop Earrings
Located in Atlanta, GA
8 millimeter Pearl, Round Brilliant Diamond and 14 Karat White Gold Drop Earrings Each 6 centimeter long earring features a Diamond-capped, 8 millimeter white Pearl. At the top of ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, Pearl, 14k Gold, White Gold

1970s Amethyst and Diamond Drop Earrings 14 Karat White Gold
Located in Atlanta, GA
1970s Round Amethyst with Diamond Halo and 14 Karat White Gold Drop Earrings Each earring features a 10 millimeter, Checkerboard, Round Brilliant Amethyst center stone. A Halo of Round Brilliant Diamonds surrounds the center stone. Diamonds encrust the loop attaching the Amethyst to the French ear wire. The front of the French ear wire is also covered in Round Brilliant Diamonds. Each Amethyst is securely prong set. The arch detail gallery can be seen in profile. This gallery permits an illuminating effect that enhances the sparkle and brilliance of each Amethyst! The earrings measure 3 centimeters long. You will be starstruck by this pair of absolutely Stunning Amethyst and Diamond Drop Earrings...
Category

Late 20th Century Unknown Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Amethyst, Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold

Old European Cut 2.90 and 2.66 Carat Diamond Gold Earrings
Located in New York, NY
A stunning pair of Old European Cut diamond hanging gold earrings centering upon diamonds weighing 2.90 cts and 2.66 cts. These diamonds are wonderfully matched. They are graded as a...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary American Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold

1.25 Carat Total Diamond and 14 Karat White Gold Earrings
Located in Atlanta, GA
These spectacular Diamond Drop earrings are just waiting to be taken out and shown off! Each earring features 2 bezel set center diamonds surrounded by a halo of accent diamonds set ...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold

1950s 10 carat total Blue Topaz and 14 Karat Yellow Gold Dangle Earrings
Located in Atlanta, GA
We love these gorgeous Blue Topaz Dangle Earrings! Each earring features a prong set 5 carat blue topaz measuring 13 millimeters by 12 millimeters. The earring length measures 60 mi...
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Topaz, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Platinum Pear Shape Emerald Drops and Diamonds Earrings
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Long dangle green pear shape emerald drop earrings. Above the pear shape emeralds are exquisitely placed white diamonds set in platinum. The length of these create a great look for a...
Category

20th Century Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Platinum

Marco Bicego Paradise Yellow Gold Textured Dangle Earrings
Located in Stamford, CT
Dramatic Marco Bicego textured 18k solid gold angle earrings. Paradise style. 3 row textured style. 18k Yellow Gold Length: 57.44mm or 2.26 inches Width: 9.89mm or .38 inches. Depth...
Category

Early 2000s Modern Drop Earrings

Materials

18k Gold, Yellow Gold

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