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.
$1,400Sale Price|20% Off
14k yellow gold Graduated Beads and Lavender Jade Bead Necklace
Located in Los Angeles, CA
14k yellow gold Beads and Lavender Jade Bead Necklace Bead size: 8.5mm x 6.50mm Length: 16 inches Clasp: Plunger
Jade, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Set in 18K Gold, 19.98 carat Pink Sapphire Rose Cut & Diamond Chandelier Earring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Pink Sapphire Chandelier Earrings set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Pink Sapphire is 19.98 carats. The Pink...
Diamond, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold
Lotus ring 18 karat yellow gold with rose quartz and diamonds
Located in Amsterdam, NL
18 Karat Lotus ring in 18 karat yellow gold – leaves rose gold- with a rose quartz cabochon and 13 diam. total 0.05ct Saluting 10 years of playful individuality. Charlotte Lynggaard...
Diamond, White Diamond, Quartz, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Genuine Cartier Cross Diamond Pendant 950 PT Diamond Illusion Charm Necklace
By Cartier
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Lovely Find. PRE-OWNED Authentic Cartier Pendant. Princess Square Diamonds Illusion Set. Comes with Original Cartier Box and Receipt. Details PT950 Platinum Cross and Necklace 12mm...
Diamond, Platinum
Vintage Chopard x Tiffany & Co. Model 5111/1 18 Karat Gold and Diamond Watch
By Chopard
Located in New York, NY
Maker: Chopard for Tiffany & Co. Model: 5111 / 1 Year: 1980s Material: 18k Yellow Gold Dial: Gold with Tiffany & Co. Stamp and Diamond Bezel Case Measurement: 22mm Movement: ...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
Rolex Vintage Datejust 36mm Silver Dial Yellow Gold Circa 1975 Reference 1601
By Rolex
Located in Mayfair, London, London
A vintage Rolex Datejust reference 1601 featuring an attractive silver dial with applied yellow gold baton hour markers, luminous dots positioned around the bevelled outer edge and m...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,093Sale Price / item|44% Off
Art Nouveau–Inspired Topaz and Pearl Botanical Ring in 14k Gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Sculptural Leaf Topaz and Pearl Ring in 14k Yellow Gold. Botanical Topaz Ring with Freshwater Pearl in 14k Gold. A delicate nature-inspired ring crafted in 14k yellow gold, featurin...
Freshwater Pearl, Topaz, 14k Gold
Rolex Oyster Stainless Steel with Custom Made Silvered Brushed Dial circa 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster / Reference 6427 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 41mm "Lug Tip to Lug ...
Stainless Steel
GIA Certified 10.12 Ct Royal Blue Ceylon Sapphire & Diamond Ring in Platinum
Located in Plantation, FL
A commanding three-stone ring centering a GIA-certified 10.12-carat oval Ceylon (Sri Lankan) sapphire, framed by a pair of bright half-moon diamonds in a clean platinum mount. The c...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
Del Sol Shell Pendant with Natural Diamond
Located in Miami, FL
Del Sol Shell Pendant is made with 14k gold, natural shell, and .14 carat natural diamond. This delicate beauty fits on most small to medium sized chains, consider adding a chain or ...
Diamond, 14k Gold
Vintage Statement 6.23-Carats Diamond Platinum Brooch
Located in Montréal, CA
Diamond Platinum Statement Brooch with 6.23 Carats, Vintage This vintage diamond platinum brooch is an exceptional statement jewel, masterfully crafted in platinum and set with 6.23...
Diamond, Platinum
Vintage Tiffany & Co. Mesh Somerset Wide Ring in Yellow Gold
Located in London, England
A stylish vintage Tiffany & Co. Mesh Somerset ring set in 18k yellow gold.
The ring is composed of an intricate woven mesh design, creating a bold and textured wide ba...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$558Sale Price|20% Off
Five Strand Crystal Encrusted Leopard Statement Necklace By Heidi Daus
By Heidi Daus
Located in McKinney, TX
- Vintage item - Collectible costume jewelry piece - 17" length with additional 4.5" extender chain - 4" x 1.75" leopard head focal area - Antique gold tone - Crystal pavé - Ci...
Vintage Pair of David Webb Baroque Pearl Diamond Pendant Earrings
By David Webb
Located in New York, NY
A rare pair of 18k gold and diamond baroque pearl pendant earrings by David Webb circa 1975. These earrings feature lustrous white baroque South Sea Pearls surrounded by white round ...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold
$945Sale Price / item|30% Off
1/10 Carat Marquise Diamond Ring Yellow Gold Brushed Satin Band Flush Set
Located in Austin, TX
This stunning satin finished 14k yellow gold flush set band encircling a brilliant white diamond is breathtaking! The creative setting of the diamond pr...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage White Gold Bracelet with Untreated Burmese Rubies, c. 1970
Located in Berlin, DE
Silky Sheen Vintage White Gold Bracelet with Untreated Burmese Rubies, c. 1970 Due to their outstanding quality, rubies from Burma are among the most precious gemstones of all and a...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Bulgari Parentesi Green Quartz and Diamond Ring
By Bulgari
Located in London, England
A striking Bulgari Parentesi green quartz and diamond cocktail ring set in 18k rose gold.
The ring is predominantly set with a beautiful rose-cut mint coloured green quartz...
Diamond, Quartz, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
80s Vintage Diamond Band Sz 6.5 Stacking Ring 18k Yellow Gold Estate Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
Stylish vintage diamond ring crafted in 18 karat yellow gold (circa 1980s). 11 round brilliant cut diamonds total an estimated 0.20 carats (estimated at I-J color and SI1-I1 clarit...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Zambian Emerald Multi Sapphire Gemstone Choker Necklace 18k Rose Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
Details Item Code :- SECK-9637 Gross Wt. :- 56.37 gm 18k Rose Gold Wt. :- 53.27 gm Natural Diamond Wt. :- 3.13 Ct. ( SI Clarity & GH Color ) Emerald & Multi Sapphire Wt. :- 12.38 Ct...
Emerald, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
.16 Carat Diamond 14 Karat Gold and Platinum Stylized Twisted Ring Band, 1970
Located in Milford, DE
A fancy ring featuring intertwined 14K gold and platinum on the front. Each of the 4 platinum rows is accented with 4 .01 carat diamonds, for a total of 16 diamonds totaling .16 cara...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Platinum, Gold
Vintage Mikimoto Bubble Akoya Pearl and Diamond Ring in White Gold
By Mikimoto
Located in London, England
A playful vintage Mikimoto Bubble Akoya pearl and diamond ring set in 18k white gold.
This piece features Mikimoto's finest Akoya cultured pearls and diamonds clustered to...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
11.45 Carat SI/H Heart Shape Diamond Tennis Bracelet 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
Details Item Code :- SEBR-48147A Gross Wt. :- 11.96 gm 18k White Gold Wt. :- 9.67 gm Natural Diamond Wt. :- 11.45 Ct. ( SI Clarity & GH Color ) Bracelet Length :- 7 Inches Long ✨ Cu...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Tiffany & Co. Atlas Ladies Wristwatch in 18K Yellow Gold - Swiss Quartz
Located in New York, NY
Elegant and timeless Tiffany & Co. ladies wristwatch from the iconic Atlas collection, crafted in 18K yellow gold. Case-back is stamped Tiffany & Co. and some numbers. Featuring the ...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$505Sale Price|20% Off
Vintage Armani Collection Brooch, Flower with Crystals, Italy
Located in VALLADOLID, ES
A stunning silver-plated rose brooch adorned with crystal pavé, designed by the prestigious Italian haute couture house Armani Collection. A true statement of timeless elegance that ...
36 Ct Citrine Mens Tennis Bracelet 14K Gold Yellow Citrine Bracelet 7.5 Inch
Located in Jaipur, IN
14K Yellow Gold Natural Yellow Citrine Tennis Bracelet – 36 Carat Octagon Cut Half Bezel Designer Bracelet Radiating warmth and timeless sophistication, this handcrafted 14K Yellow Gold Natural Yellow Citrine Tennis Bracelet showcases an impressive 36.00 carats of genuine yellow citrine, beautifully arranged in a classic tennis bracelet design. Each 5 x 7 mm octagon-cut citrine is expertly secured in a contemporary half bezel setting, allowing exceptional light reflection while providing superior protection for every gemstone. Crafted in luxurious solid 14K Yellow Gold, the rich golden hues of the natural citrine harmonize perfectly with the warm gold setting, creating a refined statement bracelet that effortlessly transitions from everyday elegance to formal occasions. The clean geometric lines of the octagon-cut gemstones paired with the sleek half bezel design offer a modern interpretation of the iconic tennis bracelet. Measuring 7.5 inches, this bracelet is designed for comfortable everyday wear, while custom lengths are available upon request to ensure the perfect fit. Whether worn as a standalone statement piece or layered with other fine jewelry, this designer citrine bracelet is an exceptional addition to any luxury jewelry collection. Ideal as a November birthstone gift, anniversary present, bridal jewelry, or heirloom-quality keepsake, this natural citrine tennis bracelet celebrates expert craftsmanship, vibrant color, and timeless luxury. Product Details Metal: Solid 14K Yellow Gold Style: Tennis Bracelet Gemstone: Natural Yellow Citrine Total Gem Weight: 36.00 Carats Gemstone Shape: 5 × 7 mm Octagon Cut Setting: Half Bezel Setting Bracelet Length: 7.5 Inches Custom Lengths Available Secure Box Clasp with Safety Latch Handcrafted Fine Jewelry 14K Yellow Gold Citrine Bracelet, Natural Yellow Citrine Tennis Bracelet, Citrine Tennis Bracelet, Yellow Citrine Bracelet...
Citrine, 14k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Holiday Edition 2008 Star Mother of Pearl 18K Gold Necklace
Located in Fairfax, VA
Description: An elegant Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Star pendant from the highly sought-after 2008 Holiday Edition, exquisitely crafted in solid 18K yellow gold. This ref...
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Estate Tiffany & Co Elsa Peretti Large Open Heart Sterling Silver Necklace
By Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine large size openwork heart silver necklace. By Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. In the form of a heart. Marked to the reverse: Tiffany & Co. 925 ...
Sterling Silver
Princess Cut Diamond Huggie Hoop 14 Karat White Gold Earrings
Located in Boca Raton, FL
14K White Gold Diamond Huggie Earrings featuring ten princess-cut diamonds totaling approximately 0.15 carats total weight. The diamonds are graded H-I color and SI clarity, offering...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 18k Rose Gold Mother of Pearl Bracelet
Located in Feasterville, PA
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Bracelet is a refined expression of elegance and timeless design. Crafted from 18k rose gold, this bracelet features five motifs, each adorned wi...
Pearl, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Vintage 18K Gold 18” Fancy Link Chain
Located in Venice, CA
This particular design is often called a fancy link, and was inspired by the French fancy link chains of the Victorian era. The fancy link design consists of lozenge-shaped links con...
Gold, 18k Gold
Studio Rêves Golden Blossom Diamond Dangling Earrings in 18K Gold
By Studio Rêves
Located in Mumbai, Maharashtra
A graceful tribute to flowers in full bloom, the Golden Blossom Diamond Earrings are designed with delicate floral branches that seem to sway with natural elegance. Luminous rosecut ...
Diamond, White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold, Yell...
Vintage Panthère de Cartier Diamond and Onyx Black Cord Necklace
By Cartier
Located in London, England
A striking vintage Panthère de Cartier diamond and onyx necklace set in 18k white gold.
The necklace features a pavé-set diamond circular link suspending a geometric recta...
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
1.7Ct Padparadscha Sapphire Ring with Natural Diamond Accents: Solid 14K Gold
Located in Columbus, OH
A 1.76-carat padparadscha sapphire glows in its signature pink-orange, set east-west at the centre of this solid 14K white gold ring and wrapped in a halo of twenty-four earth-mined ...
Diamond, Padparadscha Sapphire , Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$947Sale Price / item|44% Off
Emerald Vintage style gold ring
Located in Istanbul, TR
Gold ring with emeralds and diamonds. Emerald gold ring. Oval emerald 14k gold ring. Emerald Vintage style/Old Style rings. Emerald Dainty ring. Art Deco emerald ring. Genuine emeral...
Diamond, White Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold
Giant Rainbow Moonstone 14K Yellow Gold Stackable Cocktail Ring
Located in GOES, NL
* we offer complimentary resizing on all of our rings Discover timeless elegance with this extraordinary shimmering Rainbow Moonstone ring set in rich 14-carat yellow gold. At its h...
Moonstone, Rainbow Moonstone, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
$511Sale Price / item|44% Off
Art Deco Style Garnet and Colorless Topaz Drop Earrings silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Vintage style garnet earrings silver, gold. Dangle garnet earrings. Cocktail earrings with garnet, Silver Gold-Plated Drop Earrings with Garnet and Topaz A striking pair of garnet a...
Garnet, Topaz, Gold Plate, Silver
Vintage Roberto Coin Amethyst, Shell and Diamond Oval Ring
By Roberto Coin
Located in London, England
A striking vintage Roberto Coin amethyst, shell and diamond ring set in 18k white gold.
The ring features a large oval cabochon amethy...
Amethyst, Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
14k Yellow Gold Bees of Malia Pendant – Minoan Amulet, Greek Revival Jewelry
Located in Antwerp, BE
For sale is this lovely 14k yellow gold pendant. This lovely pendant is a replica of the Minoan Bees, also known as the Bees of Malia. The pendant is hallmarked with a 585 mark and u...
Gold, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
$482Sale Price / item|40% Off
Amethyst Balloon Girl Stud Earrings, Silver, Gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Inspired by the poetic street art of Banksy, these statement stud earrings depict a young girl floating beneath a cluster of gemstone balloons. Faceted purple amethysts form the bal...
Amethyst, Gold Plate, Silver
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Ring 18K Yellow Gold White Mother-of-Pearl
Located in Feasterville, PA
A vintage ring with a distinct French charm, embodying Van Cleef & Arpels' timeless elegance through its unique design and historical significance. Crafted in luxurious 18k yellow g...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
David Yurman Sterling Silver White Pearl Station Necklace
By David Yurman
Located in Mount Kisco, NY
Long in length with plenty of style, this hard to find vintage David Yurman Sterling Silver Pearl Station Necklace is a classic wardrobe staple for all tastes. From the DY Cable Collection, the generous 64 inch length of this David Yurman Chain...
Pearl, Sterling Silver
$466Sale Price / item|43% Off
Toi et Moi Gemstone Ring: Heart Moissanites
Located in Istanbul, TR
Toi et Moi Gemstone Ring: Heart Moissanites. Toi et Moi Gemstone Ring: Garnet and Topaz Perfect "You n I". Metal: 925 silver + 14k yellow gold plating over Weight: 4.2 g. depends f...
Gold Plate, Silver
Vintage 5.43ct Old Cut Diamond Three Stone Ring
Located in London, England
A magnificent vintage diamond three-stone ring in platinum.
The ring featuring three impressive Old Mine-cut diamonds of an incredible sparkle and a combined weight of ...
Diamond, Platinum
Omega Seamaster Chronograph Cal. 321 Black Dial Ref. 145.006.66 Circa 1967
By Omega
Located in PARIS, FR
Omega Seamaster Chronograph ref. 145.006-66, produced circa 1967 and powered by the legendary calibre 321, the same movement used in early Speedmaster models. This reference feature...
Stainless Steel
Pomellato Tourmaline Pink Sapphire Rose Gold Cocktail Ring Sz 6
By Pomellato
Located in Feasterville, PA
A bold statement ring by Pomellato, showcasing the natural beauty of tourmaline. Crafted in 18k rose gold, the ring features a high oval cabochon tourmaline, polished to a liquid-li...
Pink Sapphire, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, Rhodium
Natural Cambodia Blue Zircon 10.65 Carat Loose Gemstone – Large Faceted Blue
Located in Peshawar, PK
Natural Blue Zircon from Cambodia, weighing an impressive 10.65 carats. Renowned for its dazzling brilliance and vivid blue color, this exceptional gemstone is a true collector's pie...
Zircon
Chanel Haute Joaillerie COMÈTE "GÉODE" NECKLACE Necklace
By Chanel
Located in Guangzhou, CN
Chanel Fine Jewelry Comète Collection "GÉODE" Necklace Inclusions: None Retail Price: 2,000,000 RMB
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Dark Blue Sapphire 18K Gold Link Bracelet
Located in Fairfax, VA
This rare and collectible vintage Van Cleef & Arpels link bracelet is crafted in 18K gold and accented with dark blue sapphires. The bracelet combines substantial gold links with ric...
Sapphire, 18k Gold
Vintage Cartier Panthère Tsavorite and Onyx Geometric Ring, Size 67
By Cartier
Located in London, England
A striking vintage Cartier Panthère ring set in 18k yellow gold.
The ring is designed as a bold geometric interpretation of the iconic panther head, featuring an openwork...
Onyx, Tsavorite, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold
Bvlgari Diamond Disc 18 Karat Yellow Gold Modern Pendant Necklace
By Bulgari
Located in Boca Raton, FL
A refined and timeless design from Bvlgari, this 18 karat yellow gold necklace features a sleek disc pendant measuring approximately 13mm in diameter, accented at its center with spa...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bvlgari Naturalia Vintage Fish Station Bracelet 18K Yellow & White Gold
By Bulgari
Located in Feasterville, PA
Circa 1990s. This Bvlgari bracelet from the Naturalia line captures the playful essence of nature through the lens of Roman architectural elegance. Crafted in polished 18K yellow go...
18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,895Sale Price / item|44% Off
Rose Quartz and Colorless Topaz Drop Earrings studs 14k gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Rose Quartz and Colorless Topaz Drop Earrings studs 114k gold. Dangle Rose Quartz earrings. Cocktail earrings with Rose Quartz cabochon. Contemporary Rose Quartz and Colorless Topaz ...
Quartz, Topaz, 14k Gold
Mid-Century 18K Yellow Gold, Turquoise Cabochon, and Diamond Clip Earrings
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine pair of vintage gold, turquoise, and diamond clip earrings. In 18 karat yellow gold. Each with central prong-set turquoise oval cabochons surrounded by pave set round single...
Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Industrial Cuff Brutalist Bracelet Antique Silver Statement
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Industrial Cuff Brutalist Bracelet Antique Silver Statement Designer J DAUPHIN Handcrafted in Paris in 2008, this heavy archival cuff bracelet is a collectible statement piece fro...
Brass, Silver Plate, Silver
Thoscene Fractal Silver Ring
By John Brevard
Located in Coral Gables, FL
Using the THOSCENE customization platform developed by John Brevard, this piece is designed based on astrological systems and sacred geometry to complement patterns found in our cosm...
Sterling Silver
Vintage Gucci Silver Plate & Black Enamel Letter Opener
By Gucci
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine vintage Italian designer letter opener. In sterling plate. By Gucci. With a ring shaped handle surrounding a bean shaped device that reads 'GUCCI' on a black enamel band. ...
Silver Plate, Enamel
$449Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Geometric 0.07Cts Diamond Pendant Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
About : Sleek and architectural, this 14K yellow gold pendant necklace is formed around a balanced circular silhouette divided into contrasting sections and accented with 32 natural ...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Pink Shell Pendant with Natural Diamonds and Red Garnet
Located in Miami, FL
Shell pendant with natural diamonds and red garnet gemstone, set in 14k gold. Wear this pendant alone or layer it with other gold chains for a beautiful layered effect. Order incl...
Diamond, Garnet, 14k Gold
Rare Van Cleef & Arpels 18k Yellow Gold Oval Link Chain Necklace w/Paper 30"
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Van Cleef & Arpels Era: 1960s Material: 18k yellow gold Design: Substantial rectangular-to-oval link chain necklace with a solid, structured construction Necklace Length: Appr...
Gold, 18k Gold
COCKTAIL RING - Invisible Set Ruby Dome & Pave Diamond Terminal 18K Gold.
Located in Miami, FL
This charming Cocktail ring features a magnificent, high-dome bypass ribbon motif showcasing an extraordinary display of mystery-set natural rubies. Masterfully handcrafted in solid ...
Ruby, White Diamond, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold, Gold