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.
Engraved Cushion Shape Natural Amethyst Faceted Oval Amethyst Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Bangkok, TH
Unique ring with a Big Natural Engraved Cushion Shape Amethyst ,measuring 32 mm. x 24 mm x 8mm. and weighing 63 Carats with a nice Oval Faceted Amethyst measuring 7 mm x 9 mm set in ...
Amethyst, Gold, 14k Gold
14KT Yellow Gold Classic Four-Prong Diamond 1.06 Cts Tennis Bracelet
Located in Antwerp, BE
This classic 14K yellow gold tennis bracelet showcases a slender, flexible line of brilliant round-cut diamonds. Each individual gemstone is held securely in a traditional four-prong...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Solid Silver Amethyst, Citrine & Sapphire Multi Gemstone Sunflower Cocktail Ring
Located in New York, NY
This striking cocktail ring showcases an impressive 25.62 carats of natural amethyst, citrine, and sapphire in a bold floral inspired design. An oval amethyst centerpiece is framed b...
Amethyst, Citrine, Multi-gemstone, Sapphire, Silver
Stunning Triple Oval Turquoise Earrings
By Bijoux Num
Located in Los Angeles, CA
These stunning pair of earrings feature sets of oval cabochon-cut turquoise adorned with round simulated diamonds, handset in 18k yellow gold vermeil over sterling silver. The turquo...
Turquoise, Sterling Silver, 18k Gold, Vermeil
Syna Yellow Gold Sugarloaf Ethiopian Opal Band with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Ethiopian Opal 1 carat approx. Diamonds 0.30 carat approx. Ring size US 7 About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata D...
Diamond, Opal, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Syna Yellow Gold Amethyst Pendant
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Amethyst 4 carats approx. Chain sold separately Limited edition About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing inspiration from little things, D...
Diamond, Amethyst, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Dramatic Gilt Metal Glass Enamel Dangling Pearl Statement Earrings 21st c
Located in University City, MO
Dramatic gilt metal glass enamel dangling pearl pierced statement earrings 21st c The large scale runway style earrings are designed with gilt metal scrolled cross style medallions ...
Enamel, Gilt Metal
14K White Gold Round Cut Diamond Tiered Star Pendant Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
Shine bright with this brilliant star pendant necklace, beautifully crafted in polished 14K white gold. The eye-catching pendant features a tiered design, showcasing a central star b...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Oval Faceted Sky Blue Topaz 14k Gold Aquamarine Plain Round Beads Stud Earrings
Located in Bangkok, TH
These simple but elegant and completely handmade earrings have 2 Oval Faceted Sky Blue Topaz measuring 8x 10 mm set in 14 Kt yellow gold bezel at the top to which are suspended 2 Aqu...
Aquamarine, Topaz, Blue Topaz, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Syna Yellow Gold Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Pendant with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Sleeping Beauty Turquoise 3.50 carats approx. Diamonds 0.10 carat approx. Chain sold separately About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing...
Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Horseshoe Charm Bracelet Ruby Diamond Chain Cuff Good Luck 14k Gold Plated
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Horseshoe Bracelet White Diamond Chain Cuff Lucky Charm Bangle Good Luck Talisman J Dauphin Designer: J DAUPHIN The Horseshoe Bracelet is a chain of large open links that wraps the...
Diamond, White Diamond, 14k Gold, Gold Plate, Brass
$13,534Sale Price|20% Off
14KT White Gold Classic Round-Cut Diamond Tennis Bracelet
Located in Antwerp, BE
This elegant tennis bracelet features a continuous strand of brilliant, round-cut stones meticulously set in highly polished white gold (or platinum). Designed for timeless sophistic...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Michael Kneebone Indicolite Tourmaline White Sapphire Three Stone Ring
Located in Austin, TX
Indicolite tourmaline is featured in this classic three stone ring. Indicolite (origin: the Minas Gerais, Brazil) is an incredibly rare blue variety of tourmaline. This gem is face...
Sapphire, Tourmaline, Indicolite, 18k Gold
14KT Yellow Gold Marquise Diamond Hexagonal Bezel Solitaire Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Features a stunning marquise-cut center diamond nestled securely within a modern, structural hexagonal bezel setting. Crafted with a high-polished 14K yellow gold band that tapers ge...
Diamond, Yellow Gold
Michael Kneebone Emerald Pave Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in Austin, TX
An emerald cut emerald is flanked by diamonds in this classic and elegant cocktail ring. The emerald (origin: Brazil) is a velvety "Prell Shampoo" green with some inclusions typical...
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold
Syna Yellow Gold Round Link Necklace
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold 18 inch length 18 karat yellow gold lobster clasp About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing inspiration from little things, Dharmesh &...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Safety Pin, Contemporary Brooch, USA
Located in New York, NY
14K Yellow Gold Safety Pin, preowned and finely crafted, measuring 1.75 inches in length with a total weight of 2 grams. This versatile piece carry both functional and decorative va...
Yellow Gold, 14k Gold, Gold
Mkchael Kneebone Mint Garnet Pear Shaped Moissanite Three Stone Ring
Located in Austin, TX
Mint garnet is flanked by pear shaped Moissanie in this elegant and classic three stone ring. The garnet, a form of grossular garnet and known to the jewelry industry as Merelani ga...
Garnet, 14k Gold
GIA 18K 1.09 Ct Kashmir Unheated Pink Sapphire Art Deco Design Engagement Ring
Located in Kaohsiung City, TW
*GIA/IGI 18K 1.09 Ct Kashmir Unheated Pink Sapphire Art Deco Design Engagement Ring* GIA/IGI-certified Kashmir unheated purplish pink Sapphire weighing 1.09 ct set on the 18K white ...
Diamond, Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Purple Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White...
Syna Yellow Gold Geometrix Citrine Ring with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Citrine 5 carats approx. Diamonds 0.25 carat approx. Ring size US 7, can be sized Limited edition Exquisitely crafted ...
Diamond, Citrine, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Emerald Eternity Band Ring in Platinum, Circa 1960, 2ctw Size 5
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Circa 1960's. Gorgeous emerald eternity band set in platinum. The emeralds are very nice and vibrant. Photos and videos don't do them justice. The emeralds are more saturated in pers...
Emerald, Platinum
Michael Kneebone Princess Cut Cognac Moissanite and South Seas Pearl Pendant
Located in Austin, TX
South Seas pearl is paired with moissanite in this elegant pendant. Moissanite is a brilliant, durable and highly sought-after diamond alternative. Composed of naturally occurring ...
South Sea Pearl, 14k Gold
$180Sale Price / set|55% Off
Silvorra 2.02ct Dainty Moissanite Cluster Stud Earrings in Sterling Silver
Located in New York, NY
These sparkling 2.02 carat moissanite cluster stud earrings are crafted in 925 sterling silver and showcase a graceful arrangement of pear shaped and round moissanites measuring appr...
Silver, Sterling Silver
Elegant 14KT White Gold Round-Cut Diamond 26.78 Cts Tennis Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
This breathtaking piece is a luxurious diamond tennis necklace beautifully crafted in 14K white gold. It features a seamless, cascading strand of brilliant, round-cut diamonds that p...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
GIA 18K 0.98 Ct Kashmir Unheated Purple Sapphire Art Deco Design Engagement Ring
Located in Kaohsiung City, TW
*GIA/IGI 18K 0.98 Ct Kashmir Unheated Purple Sapphire Art Deco Design Engagement Ring* GIA/IGI-certified Kashmir unheated red purple Sapphire weighing 0.98 ct set on the 18K white g...
Diamond, Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Purple Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, White...
Effy Contemporary Diamond Black Diamond Tsavorite Garnet 14k Gold Cocktail Ring
By Effy
Located in Towson, MD
This 14 karat yellow gold crossover ring by Effy is set with 2.31 total carats of round brilliant diamonds, black diamonds and vibrant green tsavorite garnets arranged across five in...
Diamond, Black Diamond, Garnet, Tsavorite, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Aquamarine Ruby Snake Ring Serpent Double Head Gold Plated Silver
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Aquamarine Ruby Snake Ring Serpent Double Head Gold Plated Silver Ouroboros Double Serpent Ring Aquamarine Ruby Gold Plated Silver Ouroboros Coiled Snake Statement Designer: J DAU...
Aquamarine, Ruby, Gold Plate, Silver, Brass
$1,267Sale Price|25% Off
Rolling Platinum Diamond Bands and Eighteen Karat Gold Rings, 0.52ct
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
Celebrate modern luxury with this sophisticated rolling ring crafted from luxurious platinum and 18K gold. Featuring three interlocking bands that glide smoothly together, this timel...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Blue Sapphire Oval Cabs Gold Diamonds Round Drop Turquoise Earrings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Elegant and completely handmade Earrings consisting of an upper part of 4 oval shape Blue Sapphires 6x8 mm set together in 14 Kt yellow gold with 2 small diamonds in the center, at ...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Turquoise, Gold, 14k Gold
Silvorra Natural Emerald and Diamond Floral Cluster Cocktail Ring in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
This vivid 3.05 carat natural emerald and diamond floral cocktail ring is crafted in 925 sterling silver. The design features a graceful arrangement of pear and marquise cut emeralds...
Diamond, Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
White Diamond Teeth Cuff Open Bangle Bracelet Memento Mori J Dauphin
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Teeth Cuff Bracelet White Diamond Black Enamel 14k Gold Plated Memento Mori Open Bangle Designer: J DAUPHIN The Teeth Cuff is a rigid open band in 14k gold plated brass, the band f...
White Diamond, 14k Gold, Gold Plate, Brass
Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold and Peridot Dome Ring Size 5 #25589
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold and Peridot Dome Ring Size 5- This stunning ring by Tiffany & Co. is crafted from elegant 18K yellow gold and showcases a glowing oval peridot cabochon...
Peridot, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier LOVE Bracelet Classic Model 18K Yellow Gold 16CM
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier LOVE Bracelet Classic Model The bracelet is 18K Yellow Gold It has original closure of 2 screws The Bracelet is 16 CM and is 6.1 mm wide The Bracelet weighs 30.89 grams Comes...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Juste Un Clou Classic Model Bracelet With Diamonds 18K Yellow Gold 19CM
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Juste un Clou bracelet, classic model with diamonds This is the classic Nail Bracelet. The bracelet is 18K Yellow Gold There are 32 brilliant-cut diamonds totaling 0.58 carat...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bulgari Parentesi 18K Yellow Gold Choker Necklace
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
Bulgari Parentesi Necklace Choker The necklace is 18k Yellow Gold The necklace is 3/8 inches wide. The necklace weighs 137 grams The necklace is 15 inches length Comes with original ...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
2.48 Carat Natural Coral Diamond 14 Karat White Gold Ring
By Roshe Jewels
Located in Los Angeles, CA
2.48 Carat Natural Coral Diamond 14 Karat White Gold Ring Metal: 14 Karat White Gold Primary Stones: Natural Coral Accent Stones: Natural Diamonds Total Carat Weight: 2.48 cara...
Diamond, Coral, 14k Gold, White Gold
14KT Yellow Gold Round Diamond 3.0 Cts Adjustable Bolo Bracelet
Located in Antwerp, BE
This chic, adjustable bracelet showcases a sparkling centerpiece of ten round brilliant-cut diamonds seamlessly set in polished prongs. Designed in 14K yellow gold, the statement row...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
18KT Yellow Gold Graduated Diamond 2.03 Cts Dangle Earrings
Located in Antwerp, BE
He earrings are characterized by an upper stud piece (featuring a small V-shape detail) from which four individual strands drop. Two outer strands are simple polished gold bars, whil...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Juste Un Clou Small Model Bracelet 18K Yellow Gold 14CM
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Juste un Clou bracelet, small model This is the classic Nail Bracelet. The bracelet is 18K Yellow Gold The width is 2.5mm The bracelet is size 14 CM The bracelet weighs 8.71 ...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Diamond Open Circle Loop Pendant Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
Celebrate everlasting style with this exquisite open-circle loop pendant necklace. The pendant features a classic "Circle of Life" silhouette beautifully accented with a continuous r...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Syna Yellow Gold Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Pendant with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Sleeping Beauty Turquoise 5.50 carats approx. Diamonds 0.20 carat approx. Chain sold separately About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing...
Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold and Citrine Dome Ring Size 4.75 #25588
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. 18K Yellow Gold and Citrine Dome Ring Size 4.75 This stunning ring by Tiffany & Co. is crafted from elegant 18K yellow gold and showcases a glowing oval citrine caboch...
Citrine, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
MONTH LONG CLEARANCE, 7.28 Carat Natural Diamond Bar Bracelet 14K Yellow Gold
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
This exquisite bar bracelet features round brilliant cut white diamonds, known for their exceptional brilliance and sparkle. Set in a classic four-prong style, the diamonds are caref...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K 2.49 Ct Zambia Vivid Green Emerald&Diamonds Engagement Ring
Located in Kaohsiung City, TW
*18K 2.49 Ct Zambia Vivid Green Emerald&Diamonds Engagement Ring* Zambia natural vivid green emerald weighing 2.49 ct set on the 18K white gold band with natural F-G, VS diamonds we...
Emerald, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Tiffany & Co. Soleste 1.24 Carat Cushion Vivid Yellow Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in New York, NY
Tiffany & Co. Soleste Double Halo Engagement Ring The ring is 950 Platinum & 750 18K Yellow Gold The center stone is 1.24 Carat Fancy Vivid Yellow VVS1 There are 0.45 Carats ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Platinum
1985 Rolex Ladies Datejust Two Tone Watch 69173 Champagne Dial #25579
By Rolex
Located in Washington Depot, CT
1985 Rolex Ladies Datejust Two Tone Watch 69173 Champagne Dial Model: 69173 Serial: 8740518 This classic Ladies Rolex Datejust watch is set in 18K yellow gold and stainless steel. ...
Stainless Steel
1989 21 Must de Cartier Two Tone Ladies Watch with Pouch/Cert #25592
By Cartier
Located in Washington Depot, CT
1989 21 Must de Cartier Ladies Watch Serial: 901068181 This classic Cartier ladies watch has a round case with a white dial and blue hands. 28mm case Quartz movement Sapphire cr...
Stainless Steel
Leto Lama Certified 2 Ct Colombian Emerald Eye Wire Collar Torque Necklace
Located in London, GB
An everyday talisman with serious presence. The Emerald Eye Necklace features a softly sculpted “eye” pendant in textured yellow gold, finished with an organic, hand-worked surface t...
Emerald, 18k Gold
H. Stern Star Collection Large Star 18K Yellow Gold Pendant With Chain Necklace
By H. Stern
Located in New York, NY
H. Stern Noble Gold Star Collection. The necklace is 18K Yellow Gold. The chain is 19.75 inches long The star is 1.25" x 14/16" The necklace weighs 10.05 grams The necklace is encrus...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
BVLGARI Bulgari Parentesi Diamond Watch 18k Yellow Gold
By Bulgari
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Circa 2000's. Rare Bulgari Parentesi watch studded with diamonds including the buckle! The dial is a rose cut diamond. This watch will surely t...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14KT Yellow Gold Classic Four-Prong Diamond 14.03 Cts Tennis Riviera Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
This stunning 14K yellow gold Riviera necklace features a continuous, flexible line of closely set brilliant round-cut diamonds. Each diamond is precisely mounted in a classic four-...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Syna Yellow Gold Lemon Quartz Sugarloaf Pendant with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Lemon Quartz 6 carats approx. Diamonds 0.11 carat approx. Chain sold separately About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing inspiration from...
Diamond, Quartz, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Syna Limited Edition Yellow Gold Graduating Aventurine Bead Necklace
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold 19 inch graduating length Aventurine 115 carats approx. 18kyg roundels and ring 18kyg lobster clasp Limited edition About the Designers Drawing...
Aventurine, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold and Diamond Bangle Bracelet #25594
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold and Diamond Bangle Bracelet- This stunning bangle bracelet features five round brilliant cut diamonds accented by polished beading detail. Timeless sophistication wi...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Ladies Chopard 18k White Gold 26.5mm Watch
By Chopard
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Lady's Chopard 26.5mm Classique Vintage 18K White Gold Watch with Black Leather Strap and White Dial. The watch has the original papers and booklet, in good condition with light supe...
18k Gold, White Gold
White Button Shape Baroque Pearls 14 Kt Yellow Gold Ruby Round Cabs Earrings
Located in Bangkok, TH
SHIPPING+CUSTOM DUTY ARE PAID BY SELLER Simple and elegant earrings consisting in 2 Button Shape white color and high luster Baroque Pearls measuring about 17 mm in diameter with i...
Pearl, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K White Gold Classic Diamond 15.05 Cts Tennis Bracelet
Located in Antwerp, BE
This striking tennis bracelet showcases a heavy, continuous line of large round brilliant-cut diamonds designed for maximum brilliance and light reflection. Beautifully crafted in 14...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Bijoux Num Double Halo Round Amazonite Dangle Earrings
By Bijoux Num
Located in Los Angeles, CA
These beautiful pair of earrings feature sets of round blue-green amazonite, adorned with round simulated diamond cz, handset in 18k yellow gold vermeil over sterling silver. Straigh...
Amazonite, Sterling Silver, 18k Gold, Vermeil
$562Sale Price|25% Off
14K Yellow Gold Bezel-Set Ruby Stud Earrings, 0.75 ct Burma Rubies
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
Timeless elegance meets exceptional craftsmanship in these handcrafted 14K yellow gold Burmese ruby stud earrings. Featuring two perfectly matched natural Burma-mined rubies with a c...
Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$180Sale Price / item|55% Off
Silvorra Multi Sapphire Rainbow Floral Wheel Cluster Ring in Sterling Silver
Located in New York, NY
This charming 1.63 carats floral cluster ring showcases eight round cut multi-sapphires arranged in a vibrant rainbow inspired flower motif. A sparkling round diamond weighing 0.06 c...
Sapphire, Silver, Sterling Silver
On the 25th anniversary of his innovative Crystal Haze collection, the designer revisits its origins.
Brought together by a love of jewelry with meaning, Adam Shulman and Heidi Nahser Fink built a brand that celebrates ingenious design and fine craftsmanship.
With ingenuity and persistence, the designer retools vintage pieces in the colorful plastic to create gorgeous new gems.
The Southern California–based designer behind Loren Nicole studied ancient artisans' tools and techniques to craft timeless modern pieces.
Jewelry buyers are gathered in Sin City to pick out the glittering treasures you'll be coveting in the months ahead.
In the pieces she creates for her Finn brand, the designer reinterprets Victorian-era styles for a thoroughly modern clientele.
The newly redesigned Norton Museum and other impressive exhibition spaces around Palm Beach are drawing art aficionados to the tony enclave year-round.