Skip to main content

Contemporary Vanity Items

CONTEMPORARY STYLE

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.

7
to
1
5
2
4
3
2
2
1
1
1
5
2
5
4
2
2
1
2
2
1
1
2
2
39
19
17
17
14
12
10
7
5
5
3
2
1
Style: Contemporary
Store-To-Door Shipping: Pre-quoted
14 Karat Gold Vintage Tiffany Co Fluted 2 Inch Bar Clip
Located in New York, NY
Experience the timeless elegance of Tiffany & Co with this exquisite vintage bar clip, meticulously crafted from premium 14 karat yellow gold. This luxurious accessory features a cla...
Category

Late 20th Century American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Tiffany & Co. Mint Condition Round Sterling Silver Picture Frame
Located in Troy, MI
Known for their expert craftsmanship and in their own words, "Your memories are irreplaceable. Our collection of expertly crafted picture frames is a close second. Put your photos on...
Category

Early 20th Century American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Sterling Silver

Cantamessa Diamond Flower Hair Clip Estate 18k White Gold Fine Jewelry Clasp
Located in Torrance, CA
Finely detailed diamond hair clip crafted in 18 karat yellow gold. Diamonds total an estimated 0.25 carats (estimated at H-I color and VS2-SI2 clarity. Simple and sweet, the flow...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

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

Bulgari Tubogas Sapphire Two Tone 18K Gold Money Clip
Located in Bellmore, NY
Introducing the Bulgari Tubogas Sapphire Two-Tone 18K Gold Money Clip, a luxurious and distinctive accessory that seamlessly blends Italian artistry with functionality. Crafted by Bulgari, a symbol of timeless elegance and craftsmanship, this money clip is a true testament to the brand's commitment to quality and style. The rare money clip...
Category

Late 20th Century Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

HERMES H 18CT GOLD & DIAMOND EXTRA LARGE BELT BUCKLE ON REVERSIBLE LEATHER BELt
Located in GB
Royal House Antiques is delighted to offer for sale this absolutely exquisite vintage solid 18ct gold fully stamped Hermes Paris Diamond encrusted belt bucket with brand new reversab...
Category

Early 2000s French Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold

Deakin & Francis Large Black Umbrella with Skull Head Handle
Located in Birmingham, West Midlands
DEAKIN & FRANCIS, Piccadilly Arcade, London Our large luxury skull head umbrellas are hand made using the finest quality materials and are finished off with a stunning high polished...
Category

2010s British Contemporary Vanity Items

Bulgari Gold Sapphire 'Melone' Evening Clutch, circa 1970
Located in New York, NY
An evening clutch made in 18k yellow & white gold, decorated with an oval cabochon sapphire button, a mirror inside the clutch. Signed Bulgari. Has a Bulgari pouch. Circa 1970. Dime...
Category

20th Century Italian Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Sapphire, 18k Gold

Related Items
Tiffany & Co Estate Scale Sterling Silver 58 Grams
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Tiffany & Co Estate Ruler 6" Sterling Silver 58 Grams TIF632 This elegant Authentic Tiffany & Co. Ruler is made of sterling silver. TRUSTED SELLER SINCE 2002 PLEASE SEE OUR HUNDRE...
Category

1990s American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Sterling Silver

Double Jaguar 1.74 Carat Diamond Belt Buckle in 18k Yellow and White Gold
Located in Wan Chai District, HK
Add a touch of luxury and glamour to your style with this Double Jaguar 1.74 Carat Diamond 3cm Belt Buckle in 18K Yellow & White Gold. Meticulously crafted from high-quality 18K yell...
Category

Late 20th Century Hong Kong Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold

Vintage Gold-Plated Diamond Head Pocket Gas Lighter By S. T. Dupont, Paris
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Gold-Plated Diamond Head Pocket Gas Lighter By S. T. Dupont, Paris S.T. Dupont Vintage Diamond Head Gold 20µ Ligne 1 Small Gas Lighter A beautiful ...
Category

20th Century French Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Gold Plate

Georg Jensen Estate Money Clip Tie Bar Silver
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Authentic Georg Jensen Estate Money Clip Tie Bar Silver GJ13 This elegant Authentic Georg Jensen Men's Money Clip Tie Bar is made of sterling silver an...
Category

1990s American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Silver

Hermes 3.79ct Diamond Large H White Gold Buckle with Reversible Belt
Located in Holland, PA
18k White Gold Large 3.79ct Diamond Belt Buckle With Reversible Belt by Hermes. With 77 Round brilliant cut diamonds VVS1 clarity, E color total weight 3.79ct Details: Size: Buckle: 61mm (2.4") x 39mm (1.5") Belt: Length 43.5" Width 32mm (1.25") Belt is reversible black & tan color. Weight: Buckle: 72.7 grams Belt: 80.9 grams Stamped Hallmarks: Buckle: Hermes Made in...
Category

1990s French Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Diamond, White Gold

Tiffany & Co 'Return To Tiffany' Sterling Silver Key Ring
Located in London, GB
Tiffany & Co 'Return To Tiffany' Sterling Silver Key Ring The iconic Love Heart engraved with 'Return To Tiffany' Half hoop with sphere ends, with one that screws off, which enable...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Sterling Silver

Tiffany & Co. Vintage Cigarette Holder 14 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in London, GB
A Tiffany & Co. vintage cigarette holder in 14 karat yellow gold. Circa 1950. This stylish cigarette holder by Tiffany & Co is crafted in 14 karat y...
Category

1950s American Vintage Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

14k Gold, Gold, Yellow Gold

Tiffany & Co Estate Sterling Silver Money Clip 13.88 Grams
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Tiffany & Co Estate Sterling Silver Money Clip 13.88 Grams TIF114 TRUSTED SELLER SINCE 2002 PLEASE SEE OUR HUNDREDS OF POSITIVE FEEDBACKS FROM OUR CLIENTS!! FREE SHIPPING This el...
Category

1990s American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Sterling Silver

Tiffany & Co Estate Tie Clip 1 10/16 14k Yellow Gold
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Tiffany & Co Estate Tie Clip 1 10/16 14k Yellow Gold TIF333 TRUSTED SELLER SINCE 2002 PLEASE SEE OUR HUNDREDS OF POSITIVE FEEDBACKS FROM OUR CLIENTS!! FREE SHIPPING DETAILS Size: 1 10/16 Metal: 14k Yellow Gold Weight: 5.4 Grams This Authentic Tiffany wave...
Category

1990s American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Gold, Yellow Gold

Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver 'Lotus Blossom' or 'Water Lily' Dish
Located in Brisbane City, QLD
A sterling silver dish in the form of a lotus blossom or water lily by esteemed maker, Tiffany & Co. The round dish features a post 1965 hallmark for manufacture by the firm and has ...
Category

20th Century American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Silver, Sterling Silver

Antique Arts and Crafts Silver Plate Tiara Head Ornament
Located in Munich, Bavaria
This extravagant tiara in the Arts and Crafts taste was created out of silver plated copper in the last decade of the nineteenth century out of silver plated copper. The metal shows ...
Category

1890s English Antique Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Silver

Antique Arts and Crafts Silver Plate Tiara Head Ornament
Antique Arts and Crafts Silver Plate Tiara Head Ornament
Free Shipping
H 1.58 in W 5.52 in D 0.08 in
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Leaf Design Square Picture Frame
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine silver picture or photo frame. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. With engraved leaf designs throughout. Marked to the base for ©2002 / Tiffany & Co. / 925 / Spain, and ...
Category

Early 2000s Spanish Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Sterling Silver

Previously Available Items
Elsa Peretti Tiffany & Co. 1980's Jasper 18 Karat Gold Bean Pill Box Lighter
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed as a sinuous organic "bean" shaped form of carved jasper Opaque reddish-orange in color with subtle tan and black matrix Hinged to function as a lighter when paired with lig...
Category

1980s Vintage Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Jasper, Gold, 18k Gold

Jean Mahie Belt Buckle 22K Yellow Gold
Located in Dallas, TX
Jean Mahie Belt Buckle in 22K Yellow Gold. 2 3/4" by 1 3/8" 56.61 Grams
Category

1980s Vintage Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

22k Gold, Yellow Gold

Jean Mahie Belt Buckle 22K Yellow Gold
Jean Mahie Belt Buckle 22K Yellow Gold
Free Shipping
W 1.38 in L 2.75 in
Vintage Tiffany Co 14 Karat Yellow Gold DIamond 0.20 Carat Rib Design Money Clip
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Tiffany & Co. 14 Karat Yellow Gold Diamond 0.20 Carat Rib Design Money Clip Elevate your style with this exquisite Vintage Tiffany & Co. 14 Karat Yellow Gold Diamond Money Clip...
Category

Late 20th Century American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Kieselstein Cord Sterling Detailed Alligator Features Gold Plated Belt Buckle
Located in New York, NY
The Kieselstein Cord Sterling Detailed Alligator Gold Plated Belt Buckle is a luxurious and meticulously crafted accessory that is sure to elevate any outfit. This exquisite belt buckle is the perfect blend of craftsmanship and style, making it a must-have for fashion enthusiasts. Belt buckle with curved body in a gold tone finish with highly detailed scales, features, claws, and tails. Material: This belt buckle is made from high-quality sterling silver, ensuring durability and a long-lasting shine. The buckle is carefully crafted to mimic the intricate texture of alligator skin, adding a touch of exotic elegance to your attire. Gold Plating: The belt buckle features a lavish gold-plated finish, giving it a radiant and opulent look. The gold plating not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also provides a layer of protection against tarnishing. Alligator-Inspired Design: The standout feature of this belt buckle is its detailed alligator-inspired design. The textured surface resembles the scales of a real alligator, creating a unique and eye-catching pattern that sets it apart from ordinary buckles. Dimensions: 2 X 2 X .50 inch Craftsmanship: Kieselstein Cord is renowned for its exceptional craftsmanship, and this belt buckle is no exception. Each piece is meticulously handcrafted to ensure precision and quality. The attention to detail is evident in every scale and curve. Versatile: This belt buckle is designed to fit most standard belts, making it a versatile accessory suitable for various occasions. Whether you're dressing up for a formal event or adding a touch of luxury to your everyday wear, this buckle is a versatile choice. Signature Branding: The Kieselstein Cord logo or signature may be discreetly engraved on the back of the buckle, serving as a mark of authenticity and quality. Packaging: The belt buckle typically comes in a luxurious box, making it an ideal gift choice for someone special or a treat for yourself. Maintenance: To maintain its pristine appearance, it's advisable to store the buckle in its original box or a soft pouch...
Category

Early 20th Century American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Gold Plate, Silver Plate, Sterling Silver

Deakin & Francis Small Black Umbrella with Skull Head Handle
Located in Birmingham, West Midlands
DEAKIN & FRANCIS, Piccadilly Arcade, London Our small luxury skull head umbrellas are hand made using the finest quality materials and are finished off with a stunning high polished...
Category

2010s British Contemporary Vanity Items

2013 Le Must De Cartier Rare Transatlantic Rivet Motif Lighter
Located in New York, NY
Rare Cartier Lighter Rare Transatlantic Rivet Motif Polish metal 2013 In Mint working condition Comes with original luxury Cartier case Original Cartier certificate Original Car...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary French Contemporary Vanity Items

Vintage Tiffany Co 14 Karat Yellow Gold Retractable 2 Inch Long Toothpick
Located in New York, NY
The Vintage Tiffany & Co. Fourteen Karat Yellow Gold Retractable Toothpick is a unique and fascinating piece of jewelry with a rich history. The tooth...
Category

Late 20th Century American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold

Lauren Bacall Ring Holder Sterling Silver Hat Form Legendary Hollywood Actress
Located in New York, NY
This is a wonderful Sterling Silver Miniature Hat Form Ring Holder from the personal desktop of Hollywood Icon Lauren Bacall. We purchased the collection of items from Ms. Bacall's desktop at the Bonham's auction of her estate. The Miniature Hat comes with the Bonham's tag guaranteeing it to be from the estate of Ms. Bacall. The Mexican sombrero motif hat has the word Mexico and images of fighting cocks, sombrero, ale jug, wine bottle and a serape blanket. Ms. Bacall was a huge fan of Mexico and the wonderful folk arts of Mexico. The Ring Holder is hallmarked Sterling 925 and letters that I believe are MGS. It is 3.5 inches across and 1.25 inch tall. Here is your opportunity to own a piece of Hollywood History - from the personal desktop of one of the 20th Century's most iconic stars. From an article about the sale of Ms. Bacall's estate: "Bonhams’ auction last week of the Lauren Bacall Collection realized $3.46 million, closer to $5 million when you factor in two Henry Moore sculptures that sold separately in November. The sale included 32 lots from the legendary screen and stage star’s jewelry collection, which together fetched $503,000. Many pieces far exceeded their estimates. The two-day auction included everything from household items from Bacall’s New York apartment to Impressionist paintings from her extensive art collection. More than 1,500 bidders from 34 countries attempted to purchase a piece of Old Hollywood glamour, demonstrating once again the mysterious but undeniable power of provenance. We also have jewels from the estates of Opera Legend Jessye Norman...
Category

20th Century Unknown Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Silver, Sterling Silver

Berca Chestnut Shaped Hand Enameled Sterling Silver Gold Plated Pill Box
Located in Valenza, IT
Elegant, absolutely Chic Pill Box, Chestnut Shaped, carefully Hand Enameled in our Atelier. Sizes: 1.10x1.181x0.551inches, 28x30x14mm Delivered to your...
Category

21st Century and Contemporary Italian Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Sterling Silver, Enamel, Gold Plate

Lauren Bacall Ring Holder Sterling Silver Hat Form Legendary Hollywood Actress
Located in New York, NY
This is a wonderful Sterling Silver Miniature Hat Form Ring Holder from the personal desktop of Hollywood Icon Lauren Bacall. We purchased the collection of items from Ms. Bacall's desktop at the Bonham's auction of her estate. The Miniature Hat comes with the Bonham's tag guaranteeing it to be from the estate of Ms. Bacall. The Ring Holder is hallmarked Sterling 925 and letters that I believe are MGS. It is 2.75 inches across and 1 inch tall. Here is your opportunity to own a piece of Hollywood History - from the personal desktop of one of the 20th Century's most iconic stars. From an article about the sale of Ms. Bacall's estate: "Bonhams’ auction last week of the Lauren Bacall Collection realized $3.46 million, closer to $5 million when you factor in two Henry Moore sculptures that sold separately in November. The sale included 32 lots from the legendary screen and stage star’s jewelry collection, which together fetched $503,000. Many pieces far exceeded their estimates. The two-day auction included everything from household items from Bacall’s New York apartment to Impressionist paintings from her extensive art collection. More than 1,500 bidders from 34 countries attempted to purchase a piece of Old Hollywood glamour, demonstrating once again the mysterious but undeniable power of provenance. We also have jewels from the estates of Opera Legend Jessye Norman, Hollywood Writers Jackie Collins and Barbara Taylor Bradford, Hollywood Legends Ginger Rogers and Celeste Holm, Arthur Mitchell...
Category

20th Century Unknown Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Silver, Sterling Silver

Lion Tooth Pendant & Diamond 14 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in Laguna Hills, CA
Custom made gold cap with diamond encompasses this striking Lions Tooth. Double wide Bail: 1/4 inch additional length Gold encrusted custom made cap with ...
Category

20th Century South African Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Diamond, Yellow Gold

Tiffany & Co. Vintage Bolt and Screw Sterling Pill Box
Located in Aspen, CO
Tiffany & Co. sterling with an interior gold wash small pill holder in a screw/bolt motif. This vintage object is 1 3/8th inches tall. The top screws off ...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Contemporary Vanity Items

Materials

Sterling Silver

Recently Viewed

View All