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.
$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
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
Betony Vernon "Tassel Cocktail Ring" Ring Sterling Silver 925 in Stock
Located in Rome, IT
The "Tassel Cocktail Ring" was designed by Betony Vernon in 2004 and manufactured in lost wax elements. As elegant as it is playful, the jewel is likely to spark conversation. Like m...
Sterling Silver
$2,352Sale Price / item|20% Off
1.83ct Oval Blue Sapphire & Diamond Bezel Halo Cluster Ring in 14K Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This halo cluster ring features a striking 1.83ct oval cut blue sapphire, set in 14K yellow gold. The center oval blue sapphire measuring 7.5 × 6 mm, framed by 0.36ct of diamonds mea...
Blue Sapphire, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold, Gold
Natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Red Coral 14 Karat Gold Ball Chain Necklace
By Roshe Jewels
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Red Coral 14 Karat Gold Ball Chain Necklace Metal: 14 Karat Yellow Gold Primary Stones: Natural Turquoise and Coral Total Carat Weight: 9.97 cara...
Coral, Turquoise, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
$340Sale Price|60% Off
Chanel Pearl & Rhinestone CC Cuff Bracelet
By Chanel
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
Chanel Pearl & Rhinestone CC Cuff Bracelet This striking Chanel cuff bracelet is an elegant fusion of vintage allure and modern sophistication. Designed with an open cuff silhou...
Cartier 18K White Gold Essential Lines Necklace with 14.54ct Diamonds
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Essential Lines necklace, white gold 750/1000, set with 107 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 14.54 carats. 18K White gold Small size Brilliant-cut diamonds Round Each diamond within...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Vintage 1970's Opal and Diamond Halo Ring 14k Gold
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Circa 1970's. Beautiful opal surrounded by sparkling white diamonds. The opal shows a lively mix of orange, blue, green and even some purple. The setting is mainly white gold but the...
Diamond, Opal, 14k 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
Betony Vernon "Pierced Chain Necklace" Sterling 925 Necklace in Stock
Located in Rome, IT
The "Pierced Chain Necklace" was designed by Betony Vernon in 1998 and manufactured in lost wax elements. Part of the iconic "Tokens of Paradise Collection", it is a symbol of virili...
Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver 1.20ct Squared Amethyst & CZ Band Ring, Size 7.25
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
A sleek sterling silver band set with three squared amethysts totaling 1.20ct, accented by bright CZ stones for added sparkle. The geometric layout gives the ring a clean, modern pro...
Amethyst, Quartz, Sterling Silver
15.92 ct Natural Emerald-Cut Emerald and Diamond Spiral Earrings, 18K White Gold
By Jewel Palate
Located in Deira, AE
A bold emerald-cut Zambian emerald, close to eight carats each, is wrapped in a pinwheel double halo of eighty marquise diamonds. Each piece is hand-fabricated and matched as a true...
Emerald, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
MONTH-LONG BLOWOUT SALE, 18.01 Carat Natural Diamond Tennis Bracelet 14K White
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
18.01 Carat Natural Diamond Tennis Bracelet – 14K White Gold A dazzling statement of timeless luxury, this tennis bracelet features 18.01 carats of all natural round brilliant-cut d...
Diamond, White Gold
14K White Gold Round Cut Diamond Heart and Key Bypass Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Unlock a world of charm with this whimsical and romantic bypass ring. Featuring a delicate "Lock and Key" motif, the design showcases a heart-shaped padlock and a matching key that o...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
White South Sea Cultured Pearl Necklace Graduated from 15mm to 10mm
Located in OVIEDO, AS
Graduated South Sea Pearl Necklace. Thirty-five high luster, white south sea pearls with shimmering overtones of silver and rose, compose this 19 -1/2 inch knotted necklace. The pear...
South Sea Pearl, Cultured Pearl, 18k Gold, Platinum
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
Syna Yellow Gold Tanzanite, Green Tourmaline and Diamonds Earrings
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Tanzanite 15 carats approx. Green Tourmaline 3 carats approx. Diamonds 0.90 carat approx. 18kyg post-backs for pierced ears Limited Edition About ...
Diamond, Tourmaline, Tanzanite, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Chopard Imperiale 36mm Stainless Steel Diamond Bezel 388532-3004, Full Set, 2011
By Chopard
Located in PARIS, FR
Chopard Imperiale Ref. 388532-3004, an elegant ladies’ watch combining stainless steel, diamonds and the distinctive design language of Chopard’s Imperiale collection. This example ...
Amethyst, Diamond, Stainless Steel
Syna Yellow Gold Peridot Earrings with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Peridot 4 carats approx. Diamonds 0.25 carat approx. 18kyg butterfly backs Limited edition Cast in 18 karat yellow gold, this limited edition design ...
Diamond, Peridot, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
0.92 Carat Round Cut Pink Sapphire Band 14 Karat Yellow Gold
By DGI
Located in Los Angeles, CA
0.92 Carat Round Cut Pink Sapphire Band 14 Karat Yellow Gold Metal: 14 Karat Yellow Gold Primary Stones: Natural Pink Sapphire Total Carat Weight: 0.92 carats Setting: Prong Ban...
Pink Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$195Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra 2.3ct Round Emerald Milgrain Eternity Stackable Band Ring in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
This gorgeous 2.3 carat emerald eternity band ring is crafted in 925 sterling silver, featuring sixteen vibrant round cut emeralds measuring approximately 3.1 mm each. Designed with ...
Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
14KT Yellow Gold Diamond and Emerald Snake Pendant Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
The pendant features a stylized, coiling snake motif. The entire body of the snake is covered in small, round, pavé-set diamonds that maximize sparkle. The snake's eyes are set with ...
Diamond, Emerald, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow, White and Rose Gold Articulating Turtle Charm #25673
Located in Washington Depot, CT
14K Yellow, White and Rose Gold Articulating Turtle Charm Crafted in 14K tri-color gold, this articulating charm features a dynamic design with movable elements that create eye-catc...
14k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Betony Vernon "Pierced Cufflinks" Cufflinks Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
The "Pierced Cufflinks" were designed by Betony Vernon in 1998 and manufactured in lost wax elements. Part of the iconic "Tokens of Paradise Collection", they are a symbol of virilit...
Sterling Silver
Ancient Roman 3rd Century AD Goddess Victoria Coin Diamonds 18K Gold Pendant
Located in Soquel, CA
An authentic, crisply struck, very HIGH GRADE silver "denarius" coin from the realm of the Roman emperor Maximinius I, 235- 238 AD, displays an image of the Roman goddess Victoria (...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Syna Yellow Gold Blue Chalcedony Sugarloaf Pendant with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Blue Chalcedony 5.50 carats approx. Diamonds 0.11 carat approx. Chain sold separately About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing inspir...
Diamond, Chalcedony, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
6 Cts Natural Octagonal Step Cut Red Color Rhodolite Garnet Gemstone for Jewelry
Located in Peshawar, PK
Gemstone Details: Faceted Rhodolite Garnet Weight 6.0 carats Dimension 10.3 x 9.8 x 6.7 mm Origin Africa SKU-TBP10K Treatment None Shape and Cut Precision Octagon Transparen...
Rhodolite
Syna Blue Topaz Yellow Gold Ring with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Blue Topaz 7 carats approx. Diamonds 0.04 carat approx. Ring size US 7, can be sized Limited edition About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Draw...
Diamond, Topaz, Blue Topaz, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$200Sale Price / set|50% Off
Silvorra Vintage Style Pear Cut Emerald & Diamond Halo 925 Silver Stud Earrings
Located in New York, NY
These elegant pear shaped emerald and diamond halo stud earrings are crafted in 925 Sterling Silver. Featuring two pear cut emeralds measuring approximately 3 x 5 mm, the earrings sh...
Diamond, Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
$8,000Sale Price|20% Off
Oscar Heyman 18k Yellow Gold 2.5mm Square Ruby Band Ring sz 6.25
By Oscar Heyman
Located in New York City, NY
Oscar Heyman 18k yellow gold ruby calibre band ring contains 35 square rubies weighing 1.48 cts. The rubies extend around the whole ring. The ring is 2.5mm wide and is stamped with the makers mark, 18K, and serial number G9716. It is a classic design that fits comfortably on the finger. It pairs nicely with other bands as well and would mark an anniversary well. This band comes in an Oscar Heyman pouch. Size 6.25. This ring cannot be re-sized, however, additional sizes, widths, and stone colors are available by special order. Pricing will change. Oscar Heyman was founded in 1912 and became known as the 'Jewelers' Jeweler'® for creating pieces for Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, and Tiffany & Co. Oscar Heyman jewelry is and always has been made in New York City at the company's own factory. Guard rings are die struck in the company's tool and die shop...
Ruby, Yellow Gold
Crescent Moon Necklace Silver Star Lariat Celestial Emerald Ruby Tanzanite
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Crescent Moon Necklace Star Lariat Celestial Emerald Ruby Tanzanite Sterling Silver Designer: J DAUPHIN The Crescent Moon Necklace is an oxidized sterling silver snake and ball cha...
Ruby, Tanzanite, Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
Platinum 13.68ct Sugarloaf Emerald and Diamond Cocktail Ring - Fei Liu
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, .
An exceptional platinum ring centring a vivid 13.68ct sugarloaf emerald, its lush green hue enhanced by 1.50 carats of sparkling fine white diamonds. The emerald is secured by four y...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
Trillion Cut Peridot Lapis Lazuli Plain Drops 14 kt Solid Yellow Gold Earrings
Located in Bangkok, TH
These simple but elegant and unique earrings have 2 faceted Trillion shape Peridots set in yellow gold at the top to which are suspended 2 Lapis Lazuli plain drops size 18 mm x 25 mm...
Lapis Lazuli, Peridot, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Oval & Round Cut Blue Topaz and Diamond Accent Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Exude timeless elegance with this stunning ring featuring a deep, velvety oval-cut Blue Topaz. The central gemstone is secured in a classic four-prong setting and flanked by shimmeri...
Diamond, Blue Topaz, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Round Cut Triple Diamond Cluster Dome Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
This bold and luxurious 14K yellow gold dome ring makes a powerful style statement. It features three recessed diamond clusters, each artfully arranged in a quatrefoil motif that add...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
WHOLESALE VALUE, 6.04 Carat Natural Diamond Tennis Bracelet 14K Yellow Gold
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
This exquisite tennis bracelet features round brilliant cut white diamonds, known for their exceptional brilliance and sparkle. Set in a classic four-prong style, the diamonds are ca...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14K Yellow Gold Oval Cut Blue Sapphire and Diamond Halo Ribbed Dome Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Make a bold statement with this luxurious and sculptural dome-style ring. At its heart lies a vibrant oval-cut blue sapphire, encircled by a delicate halo of shimmering diamonds that...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$807Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra 2.54 CTW Oval Emerald & Marquise Diamond Statement Ring in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
This Bold 2.54 carats emerald and diamond statement ring is crafted in 925 sterling silver. Featuring a vivid oval cut emerald measuring approximately 8 x 11 mm. The striking center ...
Diamond, Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
Betony Vernon "Essence Ring" Sterling Silver 925 with Funnel and Gold Cap
Located in Rome, IT
The "Essence Ring" was designed in 1995. Betony Vernon’s work explores all of the senses and in this case the powerful sense of smell. The "Essence Ring" allows you to carry your fav...
18k Gold, Sterling Silver, Gold
18k cat enhancer, hand carved jasper, Capuchin cat.
Located in Cohasset, MA
Beautifully carved Capuchin cats head enhancer. 18k, with blue eyes. Any necklace represented is for photo embellishment only.
Betony Vernon "Finger Ring" Ring Sterling Silver 925
Located in Rome, IT
The "Finger Ring" was designed in 1998 by Betony Vernon and crafted using the lost wax technique. It is part of her anatomic Second-skins collection and was exhibited during the "Tou...
Sterling Silver
Syna Yellow Gold Blue Topaz Pendant
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Blue Topaz 5 carats approx. Chain sold separately Limited edition About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing inspiration from little things,...
Diamond, Topaz, Blue Topaz, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage 1950's Carved Coral Bracelet 14k Yellow Gold
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Circa 1950's. Beautiful carved coral bracelet set in 14k yellow gold. Has a nice secure clasp. In very good condition. Metal: 14k Yellow Gold Stones: Natural Coral Measurements: L...
Coral, 14k Gold
FLASH SALE, 8.05 Carat Natural Diamond Tennis Bracelet 14K Yellow Gold
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
This exquisite tennis bracelet features round brilliant cut white diamonds, known for their exceptional brilliance and sparkle. Set in a classic four-prong style, the diamonds are ca...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Wrist Cuff Large Set" Bracelet Pair with link Sterling 925
Located in Rome, IT
The Betony Vernon's signature "O'Ring Wrist Cuff Set", composed of 2 cuffs and removable bond-link, was originally designed in 1992. It is manufactured in sterling silver sheet metal...
Sterling Silver
Syna Yellow Gold Moon Quartz Ring with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Moon Quartz 2 carats approx. Diamonds 0.05 carat approx. Ring size US 6.5 Limited edition About the Designers ~ Dharmesh & Namrata Drawing ins...
Diamond, Quartz, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Elegant 14K Gold Ruby & Diamond Linear Drop Earrings
Located in Laguna Hills, CA
Refine your collection with these striking linear drop earrings, meticulously crafted in lustrous 14-karat gold. Blending timeless sophistication with modern movement, each earring g...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Sterling Silver and 18K Yellow Gold Cable Bracelet 7" Jeffrey Levin
Located in Webster, SD
This gorgeous vintage cable cuff bracelet is a product from designer Jeffrey Levin. It is sterling silver with 18k yellow gold tips. It measures 5mm wide and is adjustable from 7 to ...
18k Gold, Sterling Silver, Yellow Gold
$336Sale Price|65% Off
Chanel 24A White Enamel Square Bangle with Rhinestone CC Logo
By Chanel
Located in PUTNEY, NSW
Chanel 24A White Enamel Square Bangle with Rhinestone CC Logo Elevate your jewelry collection with this striking Chanel bangle from the 2024 Autumn (24A) collection. Designed in a s...
Syna Turquoise Earrings with Diamonds
By Syna Jewels
Located in Fort Lee, NJ
Created in 18 karat yellow gold Sleeping Beauty Turquoise beads 23 carats Diamonds 0.10 carat approx. Limited edition These luxurious Candy Blue Topaz and Moon Quartz Earrings feature 18 karat yellow gold and Sleeping Beauty Turquoise...
Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$900Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra 9.18ct Classic Round Cut Emerald Sleek Tennis Bracelet in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
This classic 9.18 carats round cut emerald tennis bracelet is crafted in 925 sterling silver and showcases a seamless row of 40 round cut emeralds. Each gemstone, measuring approxima...
Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
Vintage 1974 14K Yellow Gold Rolex Commemorative Pendant #25986
Located in Washington Depot, CT
Vintage 14K Yellow Gold Rolex Commemorative Pendant- A fascinating vintage commemorative 14K yellow gold charm featuring the iconic Rolex crown and the inscription "400 Years of Wat...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,985Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra 12ct Emerald and Diamond Geometric Link Tennis Bracelet in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
This statement 12 carats emerald tennis bracelet is crafted in 925 sterling silver and features a continuous line of natural emeralds adorned with diamonds. The design includes 26 em...
Diamond, Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
Nephrite Jade, Dia and Pearl Drop Flower Pendant Necklace in 14K White Gold
By Fei Liu
Located in Birmingham, .
A refined celebration of spring’s gentle beauty, this Spring Blossom Pendant Necklace features a hand‑carved Russian nephrite flower suspended from a fine 14ct white gold chain. The ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Jade, Pearl, 14k Gold, Gold Plate, Sterling Silv...
Vintage 1990's Tiffany & Co. Dual Time Quartz Flip Watch 18k Yellow Gold
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Circa 1990's vintage Tiffany & Co. quartz flip watch with an 18k yellow gold face and original leather strap. In good condition but the strap does show wear. Maker: Tiffany & Co. M...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$282Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra 6.4ct Ruby & Diamond Convertible Crab Brooch and Pendant in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
This whimsical 6.4 Carat ruby and diamond crab brooch is crafted in 925 sterling silver. At its centre rests a vivid oval cut glass filled ruby measuring approximately 12 x 10 mm, ac...
Diamond, Ruby, Silver, Sterling Silver
Cartier Riviera Necklace: 23.40ct Diamond in Platinum Setting
By Cartier
Located in London, GB
Lignes Essentielles necklace, platine 950/1000, set with 97 brilliant-cut diamonds totalling 23.40 carats. Please note that the carat weight, number of stones and product dimensions...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. Forever Platinum 9-Stone Half Circle Round Diamond Band Ring 2.2mm
Located in New York, NY
A half-circle diamond band by Tiffany & Co. from the Forever collection, set in platinum PT950 with nine round brilliant-cut diamonds sharing a claw-prong setting across the top ...
Diamond, Platinum
Betony Vernon "O'Ring Choker Mini Diamond Pavée" Necklace 18 Karat Gold in Stock
Located in Rome, IT
The "O'Ring Choker Mini Diamond Pavée" in 18-Karat Gold is part of the collection Sado-Chic, the term Betony Vernon coined to name her first fine erotic jewelry...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
LIQUIDATION, 9.15 Carat Natural Diamond Tennis Bracelet 14K White Gold
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
9.15Carat Natural Diamond Tennis Bracelet – 14K White Gold A dazzling statement of timeless luxury, this tennis bracelet features 9.15 carats of all natural round brilliant-cut diam...
Diamond, White Gold