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 18k White Gold Diamond 5-Row Metro Ring
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
Add the perfect Tiffany & Co. eternity band to your signed jewelry collection. Streamlined and modern, the Tiffany Metro twinkles like a nighttime city skyline. Five rows of dazz...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Oval Burma Ruby and Half Moon Diamonds Ring in White Gold, 2.20ct
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
Introducing our exquisite Oval Burma Ruby Half Moon Diamonds Ring, a stunning piece crafted with precision and elegance. This timeless creation is set in luxurious Eighteen Karat Whi...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Oval Faceted Sky Blue Topaz Gold White Pear Shape Baroque Pearls 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 goo...
Pearl, Blue Topaz, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Bulgari 18k Yellow Gold Citrine Cabochon Drop Earrings, 1970s
By Bulgari
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
Classically elegant yet simply chic, these bold earrings by Bvlgari encompass sleek, stepped bezels surrounding the rich, golden citrine cabochons. Vintage 1970s of a modern, minimal...
Citrine, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$567Sale Price|75% Off
Chanel B24 Collection Pearl and Enamel Black White CC Choker Necklace
By Chanel
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
This Chanel choker is an elegant and timeless piece that combines classic pearls with the brand’s signature luxury. Featuring a stunning string of cream-colored faux pearls, the neck...
Black Star Sapphire Ring set in 18K Gold Settings
Located in Bangkok, TH
Black Star Sapphire 6.90 carats Ring set in 18K Gold Settings Width: 1.2 cm Length: 1.7 cm Ring Size: 60 Total Weight: 17.69 grams "We first opened doors in 1980 when it was then...
Star Sapphire, Black Star, 18k Gold
$576Sale Price|55% Off
Chanel CC B25 White Pearl Long Necklace Layered Choker
By Chanel
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
Chanel CC B25 Pearl Long Necklace Timeless elegance meets iconic design with this Chanel CC B25 Pearl Long Necklace. Featuring a strand of luminous faux pearls accented by a signatu...
Betony Vernon "Venus Ring" Small, Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
Located in Rome, IT
The “Venus Ring Small” was designed by Betony Vernon in 1997 to be worn on the middle finger. This piece celebrates the feminine. It is an emblematic invitation to express your sensu...
Sterling Silver
Vintage Tiffany & Co. 14K Yellow Gold Bombé Domed Ribbed Ring
Located in New York, NY
An exuberant vintage bombé ring by Tiffany & Co., rendered in 14 karat yellow gold and finished with a bold ribbed texture running the full width of the domed face. The band tape...
Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Heavy Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Diamond Wheat Chain Necklace 40.6 Grams
Located in Webster, SD
This gorgeous necklace is solid 14k yellow gold with white gold accenting and natural diamonds. Necklace Specifics: 14 Round Diamonds - 0.14ctw Total weight - 40.6 grams Chain - 8mm...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
1.02 Carat Natural Ruby and Diamond Three-Stone Ring Made in Platinum
Located in Tokyo, JP
A beautiful Ring made in Platinum featuring a 1.02 Carat Natural Ruby and 0.34 Carat Diamond accents. Rubies are referred to as "Ratnaraj" in Sanskrit meaning the King of Gems. Early...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Art Deco‑Style Convertible Platinum Earrings Set with Sapphires and Diamonds
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, .
These convertible platinum earrings with sapphires and diamonds reinterpret Art Deco geometry through a contemporary lens. Vivid square‑cut sapphires are adorned by pavé‑set diamonds...
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Platinum
$200Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra Pear and Marquise Cut Pink Sapphire Three Stone Ring in Sterling Silver
Located in New York, NY
This delicate three-stone ring features 0.59 carats of natural pink sapphires in an elegant pear and marquise cut combination in silver. A slender 1.86 mm shank offers a refined, lig...
Pink Sapphire, Silver, Sterling Silver
Stunning Double Oval Peridot & Prasiolite Earrings
By Bijoux Num
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Bijoux Num Stunning Double Oval Peridot & Prasiolite Vermeil Earrings These stunning pair of earrings features a pair of genuine oval vivid green peridot and pastel green prasiolite...
Quartz, Peridot, 18k Gold, Vermeil, Sterling Silver
14K Pink Gold Round Cut Diamond Bow Motif Stackable Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
embrace a touch of feminine charm with this delicate 14k pink gold ring featuring a dainty bow motif. The centerpiece is intricately detailed and pave-set with shimmering round diamo...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
Vibrant 4.50 Ct Oval Mint Green Tourmaline, Diamond Cocktail Ring, 14K White
Located in Laguna Hills, CA
An exquisite statement piece of exceptional color and brilliance, this cocktail ring features a mesmerizing 4.50-carat mint green tourmaline. The central gemstone boasts a modified b...
Tourmaline, Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$800Sale Price|20% Off
Classic Blue Sapphire & Diamond Ring in 14k White Gold
Located in Bloomington, MN
Classic Blue Sapphire & Diamond Ring in 14k White Gold Crafted in 14k white gold, this ring features 0.20 carat total weight of blue sapphires arranged in a richly colored cluster, ...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
14K White Gold Cushion Chrome Diopside and Iolite Three-Stone Halo Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Celebrate a rich tapestry of color with this vibrant three-stone statement ring. At the center sits a lush, cushion-cut Chrome Diopside in a vivid forest green, flanked by two deep v...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
Emma Chapman Lapis Lazuli Diopside Silver Hand- Carved Flower Ring
By Emma Chapman
Located in Frome, Somerset
An exquisite limited edition lapis lazuli flower ring using the ancient art of stone-carving. The ring has a central lapis carved flower, which is embedded with a chrome diopside...
Lapis Lazuli, Silver
Vintage 1950's 5 Stone Diamond Band Ring 14k Gold Size 3
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Circa 1950's. Classic two tone 5 stone diamond band with white sparkling diamonds. Would make a great wedding or stacking band. The diamonds are set in white gold and the band is yel...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,408Sale Price|20% Off
Tiffany & Co. 14K Yellow Gold Cultured Pearl Tennis Racket Brooch Pin
Located in New York, NY
Celebrate the enduring elegance of sport-inspired luxury with this distinctive vintage Tiffany & Co. 14K Yellow Gold Cultured Pearl Tennis Racket Brooch Pin. Crafted during the l...
Cultured Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$3,506 / item
Betony Vernon "Shag Bague" Ring Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
The "Shag Bague" was designed by Betony Vernon in 1998 to be worn on the middle finger. As other massage rings and jewel tools by Betony Vernon, this wearab...
Sterling Silver
Syna Yellow Gold Green Tourmaline Pendant with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Green Tourmaline 16 carats approx. Diamonds 0.15 carat approx. Chain sold separately About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing inspir...
Diamond, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Heavy Vintage Mexican Sterling Inlaid Bangle Bracelet
Located in Webster, SD
This gorgeous Mexican bangle bracelet is sterling silver. It features onyx, malachite, jasper, azurite and tiger eye inlay. This bracelet measures 1/2 of an inch wide. It has an inn...
Sterling Silver
18K Yellow Gold Triple-Strand Chain Necklace 18" #26150
Located in Washington Depot, CT
18K Yellow Gold Triple-Strand Chain Necklace 18k yellow gold triple-strand necklace featuring three elegant layers of gold for a sophisticated, statement-making look. Hallmark: MWI...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Syna Yellow Gold Paper Clip Necklace with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold 16 inch length 18 karat yellow gold lobster clasp About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing inspiration from little things, Dharmesh &...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Betony Vernon "Pod Massage Ring" Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
Being ready to bring joy is a fundamental aspect of the Paradise Found Fine Jewelry Collection and the Pod Massage Ring is crafted to offer two distinct sensations. The smooth pod-shaped surfaces are designed for massaging various parts of the body, particularly effective for the feet, back, and shoulders. For those who enjoy the sensation of scratching, the Pod Ring is a must. How to Adorn: Intended for the middle finger, the Pod Massage Ring covers the index and ring fingers without restricting their movement. On the contrary, the ring enhances the wearer's ability to provide new and different sensations. Rotating the ring reveals four prongs that can be used for back scratching...
Sterling Silver
$448Sale Price|20% Off
Oscar de la Renta Textured Metal and Crystal Hammered Collar Necklace 16" Long
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Striking and sophisticated, this Oscar de la Renta choker necklace is a true statement piece featuring sculptural openwork links in rich 22k gold plating. The handmade design sparkle...
Gold Plate, Base Metal, Brass, Mixed Metal
Padparadscha Sapphire Turquoise Alexandrite Spinel Diamond Pave 8 mm Pendant
By Joke Quick
Located in Antwerp, BE
This extraordinary fine jewellery pendant by jewellery artist Joke Quick features an 8 mm round pendant set with a mesmerizing mosaic of gemstones: a glowing Padparadscha sapphire, 2...
Diamond, White Diamond, Sapphire, Spinel, Padparadscha Sapphire , Alexan...
Betony Vernon "Venus Cuff" Bracelet Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
The “Venus Cuff” was designed by Betony Vernon in 1997 to fit snuggly onto the wrist. This piece celebrates the feminine and it is an emblematic invitation to express your sensual se...
Sterling Silver
2.8 Cts Baguette Cut Indicolite Blue Tourmaline Gemstone for Pendant Jewelry
Located in Peshawar, PK
Gemstone Details: • Stone: Natural Indicolite Tourmaline • Weight: 2.85 carats • Dimension: 16.5 x 4.3 x 3.6 mm • Origin : Afghanistan • Color: Blue (Indicolite) ...
Tourmaline
$200Sale Price / item|50% 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
10K Yellow Gold Capricorn Zodiac Charm #26108
Located in Washington Depot, CT
10K Yellow Gold Capricorn Zodiac Charm- Add a touch of magic to your collection with this 10K yellow gold capricorn zodiac charm. Featuring a whimsical design and polished gold fini...
10k Gold, Yellow Gold
3.33 Carat Aquamarine and Diamond 14k Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Sant Josep de sa Talaia, IB
This 3.33 Carat Aquamarine and Diamond 14k Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring is a refined masterpiece of contemporary high jewelry. The focal point of this exceptional jewel is a magnificent...
Diamond, Aquamarine, 14k Gold
6 Cts Lagoon Blue Tourmaline Gemstone for Ring Jewellery 13 mm
Located in Peshawar, PK
Gemstone Details: Faceted Tourmaline Weight 6.35 carats Dimension 13.2 x 9.5 x 6.6 mm Color Lagoon Blue with Teal Blue undertone Origin Nuristan, Afghanistan Treatment None Sha...
Tourmaline
10K Yellow Gold Cameo Ring Size 4.5 #25668
Located in Washington Depot, CT
10K Yellow Gold Cameo Ring - Crafted in 10K yellow gold, this elegant cameo ring showcases a beautifully carved cameo with timeless vintage appeal. Its classic design and polished f...
10k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier French Maillon Panthere 18k yellow gold three row necklace
By Cartier
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
Cartier's Maillon Panthère link has anchored the house's gold jewelry since the 1970s, and this French-made example, circa 1990, shows the design at its most polished. Numbered and s...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Betony Vernon "Double Sphere Calcite Massage Ring" Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
Located in Rome, IT
The "Double Sphere Calcite Massage Ring" was designed by Betony Vernon in 2017 to be worn as a statement piece as well as to provide a healing massage. Th...
Sterling Silver
14K Yellow Gold 10.39 Cts Round Natural Diamond Inside-Out Hoop Earrings
Located in Antwerp, BE
About : These 14K yellow gold inside-out hoop earrings combine elegant proportions with meticulous diamond setting for a polished luxury finish. The design creates flattering movemen...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
David Yurman Mosaic Multi-Gemstone and Diamond Ring 18K Yellow Gold Size 7
By David Yurman
Located in Dallas, TX
This exquisite David Yurman Mosaic Multi-Gemstone and Diamond Ring exemplifies the luxury and craftsmanship that David Yurman is renowned for worldwide. David Yurman has been synony...
Diamond, Ruby, Tourmaline, Rhodolite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$3,825Sale Price|50% Off
18K White Gold 2.11ct Thai Blue Sapphire & 0.96ct Diamond Cocktail Ring
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
A striking high‑jewelry statement, this 18k white gold cocktail ring showcases a 2.11‑carat oval Thai blue sapphire distinguished by its dark, velvety blue hue—a depth of color highl...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
Hand-Carved Lapis Lazuli Flower Pendant Necklace by Emma Chapman
By Emma Chapman
Located in Frome, Somerset
This beautiful lapis lazuli flower pendant has been handmade using the ancient art of stone-carving. Each pendant has a carved flower, which is capped with strawberry onyx and em...
Lapis Lazuli, Silver
Betony Vernon "Mantra Kit" Bracelet and Necklace Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
The "Mantra Kit" Bracelet and Necklace is an original design by Betony Vernon made in 2018 and handcrafted in lost wax elements and a rolo chain. The "Mantra Kit" contains two rolo c...
Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger 18K Yellow Gold and Ruby Hedgehog Brooch/Pin #25899
By Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Tiffany & Co. Schlumberger 18K Yellow Gold and Ruby Hedgehog Brooch/Pin- A delightful creation by Jean Schlumberger for Tiffany & Co., this exquisite 18K yellow gold hedgehog brooch...
Ruby, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Emerald Pendant Necklace Diamond Halo 1.2 Carats 14K White Gold
Located in Bonita Springs, FL
Comes with Gemological Appraisal by GIA GG/AJP All Gemstones are Natural in Origin Emerald = 0.93 Carats Diamond = 0.27 Carats Metal: 14K White Gold Pendant Dimensions: 16.8 x 9.5 mm...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Large Heart Bracelet
Located in Palm Desert, CA
Tiffany & Co. Large Sterling Silver Heart Bracelet. The classic bracelet features a heavyweight link chain with a signature Tiffany heart pendant/charm and lobster clasp closure....
Silver, Sterling Silver
$382Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra Contemporary Emerald and Diamond Crossover Infinity Ring in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
This designer 1.43 Carats emerald and diamond infinity ring is crafted in 925 sterling silver, showcasing a sleek elongated silhouette with contemporary geometric styling. Featuring ...
Diamond, Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
Elsa Peretti Sterling Silver Eternal Circle Pendant Necklace
By Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co.
Located in New Hope, PA
This Elsa Peretti sterling silver Eternal Circle necklace is in pristine condition with the original Tiffany Blue box and felt bag. The p...
Sterling Silver
My Protectors, Melanie Yazzie, three winged dragonfly, earrings, silver, Navajo
Located in Santa Fe, NM
My Protectors, three-winged dragonfly earrings silver Navajo Melanie Yazzie Melanie A. Yazzie (Navajo-Diné) is a highly regarded multimedia artist known for her printmaking, paintin...
Silver, Sterling Silver
$1,064Sale Price|20% Off
Graceful Diamond Halo Ring in 14k White Gold
Located in Bloomington, MN
Graceful Diamond Halo Ring in 14k White Gold Crafted in 14k white gold, this elegant ring centers on a round diamond weighing approximately 0.40 carat. A delicate halo surrounds the...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Qing Dynasty–Style Enamel Dragon Hoop Earrings Gold toned
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
Qing Dynasty–Style Enamel Dragon Hoop Earrings Inspired by the opulence and symbolism of Qing Dynasty imperial artistry, these exquisite earrings feature a coiled dragon motif rende...
Vintage 80s Tiffany & Co Paloma Picasso Diamond 18k Gold Choker Necklace
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
A sublime, sleek, and elegant vintage Tiffany & Co. gold and diamond choker necklace by renowned designer Paloma Picasso. The wide ribbon of high karat 18k yellow gold, designed ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Cameo Ring Size 7.25 #25762
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow Gold Cameo Ring - Elegant genuine cameo ring crafted in solid 14K yellow gold. The finely carved cameo features a classic lady's profile, beautifully framed in a traditio...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Betony Vernon "Sleeping Ring" Large Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
The "Sleeping Ring" was designed by Betony Vernon in 1998 and manufactured in lost wax elements. Part of the iconic "Tokens of Paradise Collection", it is a discreet and humorous sym...
Sterling Silver
Contemporary 14K Yellow Gold 1.73 Cts Peridot Stud Earrings
Located in Antwerp, BE
About This pair of 14K yellow gold earrings features two Peridot gemstones in a refined setting. The gemstones provide the main visual focus, complemented by the warm tone of the gol...
Peridot, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$4,468Sale Price|20% Off
Two-Tone 18k Gold Natural Blue Sapphire & Diamond Halo Ring
Located in Bloomington, MN
Two-Tone 18k Gold Natural Blue Sapphire & Diamond Halo Ring This striking sapphire and diamond ring is crafted in 18k two-tone gold and centered with a natural blue sapphire weighin...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
14KT White Gold Round Blue Topaz Bezel-Set Stud Earrings
Located in Antwerp, BE
The earrings feature a single, round blue topaz gemstone securely held in a full bezel setting. The metal rim completely encircles the stone, offering maximum protection and a smooth...
Blue Topaz, 14k Gold, White Gold
Steven Battelle 11.1 Carats Aquamarine Cabochon 22K Gold/Sterling Ring
Located in Soquel, CA
A long oval 10 x 20 mm aquamarine cabochon is held in an exquisitely handcrafted high-karat gold bezel surrounded by intricate "wire and jawan" granulation in this beautiful piece. A...
Aquamarine, 22k Gold, Sterling Silver
$7,560Sale Price / set|20% Off
Platinum Baguette Emerald and Diamond Eternity Bands, 5.20 Carats, New
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
"Luxurious Platinum Baguette Emerald and Diamond Eternity Bands - 5.20 Carat Total" Elevate your elegance with our stunning pair of Platinum Baguette Emerald and Diamond Eternity Ban...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
Betony Vernon "Double Sphere Marble Massage Ring" Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
The "Double Sphere Marble Massage Ring" was designed by Betony Vernon in 2017 to be worn as a statement piece as well as to provide a healing massage. The ring’s therapeutic potential is unveiled by swiveling the polished spheres towards the palm of your hand. In this position the ring can be used to massage any area of the body. This jewel is a declination of Vernon's Iconic "Double Sphere Massage Ring", handcrafted with a selection of different healing stones spheres, each specific to different virtues. The Marble’s healing properties is used as a general cleanser for the body and skin. Metaphysically it is beneficial for clarity during meditative states. It is known to improve total recall of dreams and provides protection, stability and structure of one’s physical, emotional and spiritual facets. How to Adorn: Betony Vernon suggests wearing this ring in pairs. You can stack them or wear one on each hand. Note: In order to provide greater control when using the rings for massaging yourself or others, order the ring to fit the middle finger. Use massage oil to further heighten the experience and gain maximum satisfaction. Refer to chapter 9 "Ascent to Paradise: Orchestrating the Senses" of The Boudoir Bible...
Sterling Silver