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.
Skull Light Holder Chains Gun Metal Plate Vintage J Dauphin
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Vintage 2008 Skull and Bone Light Holder Ruthenium Gunmetal Plating Designer: J Dauphin — Paris Archive The Vintage Skull and Bone Light Holder is a rare, one-of-a-kind functional a...
Brass
$49Sale Price / item|30% Off
Nijma M Fine Jewelry Modern White Velvet Ring Roll Box
Located in Toronto, CA
Whether at home, on the go, or traveling, make sure your precious rings are always safe with this white crushed velvet jewelry box pochette case with gold tassel detailing. The perfe...
$4,875Sale Price|25% Off
LOUIS VUITTON MONOGRAM jewelry Case Pre-owned authentic
Located in North Hollywood, CA
This was a gift given to my brother who recently passed away. It has NEVER been used and even has its original handle cover, two jewelry levels with different with removable tray a...
Brass
Vintage Figural J. E. Caldwell Apple Shaped Sterling Silver Covered Box
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A terrific apple shaped covered box. In sterling silver and marked for J. E. Caldwell. A wonderful vintage box with great design! Date: 20th Century Overall Condition: It is in o...
Sterling Silver
Silver Hermes Paris 1960 Compact Powder Case
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
Hermès Paris Silver Compact Powder Case – Circa 1960 A refined expression of mid-century elegance, this Hermès compact powder case from the 1960s is crafted in solid silver with a t...
Silver
Vintage Bulgari White Leather Keychain with Metal Accents, Like New
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
A Stylish Fusion of Functionality and Refined Italian Craftsmanship Add a touch of luxury to your everyday essentials with this Vintage Bulgari Keychain, meticulously fashioned in wh...
Base Metal
Graff Bracelet or Watch Presentation Box, c.1970–1990
Located in Braintree, GB
An original Graff bracelet or watch presentation box dating to circa 1970–1990. The box features a pale pink leather exterior of elongated octagonal form, finished with a hinged li...
Jocelyn Burton Seashell and Moonstone Encrusted Sterling Silver Box
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A very fine cylindrical sterling silver box by Jocelyn Burton. The box's lid is richly encrusted with miniature silver sea shells and bezel set with 2 ...
Moonstone, Sterling Silver
William Spratling Mexican Mid-Century Modernist Parcel Gilt Sterling Silver Box
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine Mexican Modernist table box. In sterling silver. By William Spratling. With a diaper trellis or lattice pattern throughout punctuated with parcel gilt knops or buttons. Se...
Sterling Silver
American Sterling Silver Cigarette Case with Enamel Nautical Flags
Located in New York, NY
Nautical sterling silver and enamel cigarette case. Made by Thomae in Attleboro, Mass., ca 1960. Rectangular and hinged. Signal flags enameled on front. Gi...
Sterling Silver
Omega Vintage ladies wristwatch display box, 1960's
Located in Braintree, GB
Omega Vintage ladies wristwatch display boxMade in 1960s Dimensions:Width x depth: 9.5 x 3.5 cm Weight: 63 grams Condition: Box is pre - owned, wi...
$143Sale Price|20% Off
Bulgari Bvlgari Estate Keychain Sterling Silver
By Bulgari
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Authentic Bulgari Bvlgari Estate Keychain Sterling Silver B10 TRUSTED SELLER SINCE 2002 PLEASE SEE OUR HUNDREDS OF POSITIVE FEEDBACKS FROM OUR CLIENTS! FREE SHIPPING DETAILS Style: Keychain Material: Sterling Silver Weight: 11.6 Grams Introducing the quintessence of luxury and design - the authentic Bulgari Bvlgari sterling silver Keychain. This exquisite Keychain is a testament to Bulgari’s renowned craftsmanship and timeless elegance. Crafted from premium sterling silver, they feature the iconic Bulgari Bvlgari logo, a hallmark of sophistication and style. The design is both modern and classic, with clean lines and a polished finish that reflects light gracefully. Perfect for adding a touch of class to any formal attire, this Keychain is ideal for discerning individuals who appreciate the finer things in life. Their robust construction ensures longevity, making them not only a statement of fashion but also an investment in enduring elegance. Whether for a special occasion or as a staple of a refined wardrobe, these Bulgari Bvlgari Keychain...
Sterling Silver
Handmade Sterling Silver Zippo Style Fuel Lighter
Located in 徳島市, JP
Handmade Silver Box Lighter Zippo style hinged box design fuel lighter. Made using 1mm thick 925 sterling silver sheet. It is heavy and has a real character of quality. The hinge ...
Sterling Silver
Vintage Silver Hand Chased Dragon Cigarette Case
Located in Webster, SD
This gorgeous silver cigarette case features a hand chased/engraved dragon and an area for a monogram. The inside is gilt with gold. Measurements: 3 1/8 by 6 3/4 inches Weight: 196....
Silver
Southeast Asian Silver Dresser Box or Cigarette Case
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine antique silver dresser box. In .900 silver. We believe it's likely Chinese or Thai in origin. With repousse animal decoration and geometric patterns to both sides. One side...
Silver
French Empire Tricolored Gold Etui Case
Located in Firenze, IT
French tri-colored, red, green and yellow 18Kt gold pencil case decorated with applied classical lobes, swags and festoons of flowers. French rubbed mark, circa 1810 Width: 12 mm H...
18k Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
$2,500
H 13 in W 9 in L 13 in
Vintage Louis Vuitton Monogram Hard-Sided Vanity Case — Leather Trim, Iconic Tru
Located in Tucson, AZ
Discover timeless luxury with this vintage Louis Vuitton hard-sided vanity case, featuring the iconic LV monogram canvas and rich leather trim details. Designed in a classic trunk silhouette, this piece showcases durable craftsmanship, double-stitched seams, and stylish brass hardware, embodying the elegance and quality for which Louis Vuitton is renowned. The vanity case offers a spacious interior, perfect for storing cosmetics or travel essentials, and features an adjustable leather handle for versatile carrying options. Its collectible status and unmistakable design make it a highly sought-after addition for any fashion enthusiast or serious collector of vintage travel accessories...
Antique Agnus Dei Silver Host Case Box
Located in Munich, Bavaria
Charming sliver open work box for hosts. The outer rim of the round lid features doves of peace. In the center there is the lamb of godwith the flag of victory.
Silver
$950
W 1.34 in D 0.56 in L 2.96 in
Signed Japanese Fan Shaped Mixed Metals / Silver Box Okimono by Miyamoto Shoko
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A very fine signed Japanese mixed metals okimono. In sterling silver with applied copper bands. Made by Miyamoto Shoko. In the form of ...
Silver, Mixed Metal
$2,158
H 0.44 in W 1.89 in D 2.01 in
Antique Silver Powder Box Compact box Enamel Painting Genre Scene Silver Gilt
Located in Munich, Bavaria
This exceptional quality powder compact was imported by H C Freedman Ltd of Birmingham in 1914. The box is impressed on the inside with the makers mark, the date letter for 1914, 92...
Silver, Enamel
Bulgari B.Zero 925 Sterling Silver Leather Cord Pill Box Case
By Bulgari
Located in Simpsonville, SC
The Bulgari B. Zero 925 Sterling Silver Pill Box Case with Leather Cord is a luxurious, modern accessory that reflects Bulgari’s signature bold and sophisticated style. Crafted from ...
Sterling Silver
$659Sale Price|20% Off
W 3.94 in L 3.15 in
Art Deco Leather Book Style Powder Compact with wrist strap by Mondaine 1920’s
$8,176Sale Price|20% Off
W 2.17 in D 0.4 in L 2.17 in
18Kt Gold Rare Compact Powder Box with Chain - Made in Italy 1970 circa
Located in Bergamo, BG
To make this collector's item now, with top-notch Italian craftsmanship, would cost about €11,000 This gold powder box embodies sophisticated elegance...
18k Gold, Gold, Yellow Gold
Bulgari Melone 18 Karat Yellow Gold and Sapphire Pendant Box
By Bulgari
Located in Idar-Oberstein, DE
Bulgari Melone Pendant Box, ca. 1970s A fine 18K yellow gold and sapphire pendant box by Bulgari. The iconic oval egg-shaped, gold body finely fluted ...
Sapphire, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Hermès Paris Cornucopia Leather Box, Silver-Plated – 1970
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
A symbol of abundance, rendered with restraint. Crafted in 1970, this modernist Hermès charm box embodies the refined material contrasts and clean geometry characteristic of the era...
Silver Plate
Sold
H 1.48 in W 1.27 in D 1.3 in
Antique Dutch .833 Silver Figural Three Anchors / Barrel Matchsafe or Vesta
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine antique, figural Dutch silver matchsafe or vesta. In .833 silver. In the form of a barrel with an applied triple anchor device to the lid. (Possibly a reference to Three Anc...
Silver
Vintage Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Figural Hex Bolt Miniature Box
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine, older vintage signed miniature box. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. In the form of a hex head bolt. Marked Tiffany & Co. / Sterling to the bottom of the lid Together with its original but (quite soiled) Tiffany felt pouch. . Simply a wonderfully rare trinket box...
Sterling Silver
Cartier “C de Decor” Silver Money Clip
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A Sophisticated Accessory for the Modern Gentleman Elevate your daily essentials with this Cartier “C de Decor” Money Clip, a sleek and refined piece tailored for the discerning man....
Silver, Sterling Silver
Pillbox in 18 karat Yellow Gold by Meister Zürich
Located in Lucerne, CH
This 18-karat yellow gold pillbox by Meister Zürich radiates timeless charm and elegance. Meticulously crafted with intricate detailing, it highlights the unparalleled artistry of Sw...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1950s Tiffany & Co. 14k Yellow Gold Ruby Rolodex RARE!
Located in New York, NY
Rare Tiffany & Co. Rolodex from the 1950s, is a highly collectible piece in unused condition. The rolodex is crafted in 14k yellow gold with pattern. A cabochon ruby is set on the pa...
Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Andy Warhol - S.T Dupont Line 2 Lighter
By Andy Warhol
Located in London, GB
Rare Item - Andy Warhol - S.T Dupont Line 2 Lighter Rare palladium plated lighter, features a lacquered double portrait of Elvis Presley, inspired by Warhol’s legendary artwork. At...
Sold
H 20 in W 7 in L 14 in
LOUIS VUITTON Flower HOBO Handbag LV Monogram In Leather With Box, Bag & Booklet
Located in Miami, FL
Hobo handbag designed by Louis Vuitton. This is the very rare and hard to find flower HOBO handbag, created by the Parisian luxury house of Louis Vuitton. Indulge in luxury with the...
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Figural Ball of Yarn or Coiled Rope Pill Box
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine figural vanity box or pill box. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. In the form of a coiled ball of rope (or ball of yarn). Marked to the interior rim with Tiffany & Co. ...
Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Figural Artichoke Vanity or Pill Box
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine figural vanity box or pill box. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. In the form of an artichoke. Marked to the base with Tiffany & Co. / Sterling / 925 / Italy. Simply a...
Sterling Silver
Sold
H 0.4 in W 2.37 in L 3.25 in
Cartier London Gold Lava Pattern Cigarette Case Compact Pill Box with Gemstone
By Cartier
Located in Fairfield, CT
Amazingly made English hallmarked, high finish 9-karat gold Cartier London compact. Crafted with exquisite attention to detail, this luxurious compact features a distinctive textured...
Garnet, Gold, 9k Gold, Yellow Gold