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.
$14,940Sale Price|20% Off
7.1 Carat Princess Cut Diamond Ruby Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This estate bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 7.1-carat diamond in a crisp princess cut. It is framed by ruby accents for added contrast. Crafted in 18k g...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
$648Sale Price / set|20% Off
Minimalist 1.08ct Pear-Cut Blue Sapphire & Diamond Stud Earrings 14K White Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
These stud earrings feature 1.08 carats of natural pear-cut blue sapphires, set in 14K white gold. Each sapphire measuring approximately 6 x 4 mm, secured in classic prong settings....
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
$8,788Sale Price|20% Off
5.78 Carat Rose Cut Diamond Gold Earrings
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This pair of drop earrings from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 5.78-carat diamond in a rose cut, prized for its domed crown and soft, candlelit glow. It is framed by...
Diamond, 18k Gold
$7,909Sale Price|20% Off
5.38 Carat Briolette Diamond Gold Earrings
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This set of earrings from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 5.38-carat yellow diamond in a faceted briolette drop. It is framed by diamond accents for added contrast. C...
Diamond, 18k Gold
$4,745Sale Price|20% Off
1.3 Carat Rose Cut Diamond Gold Earrings
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This pair of drop earrings from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 1.3-carat diamond in a rose cut, prized for its domed crown and soft, candlelit glow. It is framed by ...
Diamond, 18k Gold
$6,152Sale Price|20% Off
3.25 Carat Rose Cut Diamond Gold Earrings
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This pair of earrings centers on a striking rose cut diamond, prized for its domed profile and soft, candlelit sparkle rather than the sharp brilliance of a modern cut. Each earring ...
Diamond, 18k Gold
$22,497Sale Price|20% Off
1.41 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Gold Earrings
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
These estate earrings from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 1.41-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by diamond accents fo...
Diamond, 18k Gold
$8,436Sale Price|20% Off
1.63 Carat Rose Cut Diamond Gold Earrings
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This pair of estate earrings from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 1.63-carat diamond in a rose cut, prized for its domed crown and soft, candlelit glow. It is framed ...
Diamond, 18k Gold
$6,679Sale Price|20% Off
2.72 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Gold Earrings
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This set of earrings from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 2.72-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by diamond accents for...
Diamond, 18k Gold
$14,640Sale Price|20% Off
Set in 18K Yellow Gold, 21.00 carats, natural Diamond Cocktail Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Diamond Engagement Cocktail Ring set in 18K Yellow Gold. The weight of the Brown Diamond is 21.00 carats. Net 18K Gold weight is 22.89 g...
Diamond, Brown Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tiffany & Co. Atlas Diamond Watch, 18KT White Gold
Located in Braintree, GB
Tiffany & Co. Atlas ladies wristwatch in 18KT white gold, the square case set with a double row of diamonds around a silvered dial with the raised Roman numerals of the Atlas des...
White Gold
$23,728Sale Price|20% Off
1.7 Carat Old European Cut Diamond Emerald Gold Earrings
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This pair of estate earrings from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 1.7-carat diamond in an old European cut, an early brilliant style with a warm, hand-cut character. ...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Vintage Tiffany & Co. Circle Link Bracelet in Yellow Gold
Located in London, England
A vintage Tiffany & Co. circle link bracelet set in 18k yellow gold.
The bracelet is composed of interlinking circles which vary in shapes and sizes. Due to its design...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$21,076Sale Price|20% Off
3.52 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Emerald Pearl Earrings
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This set of earrings from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 3.52-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is set with diamond, emerald and...
Diamond, Emerald, Pearl, 18k Gold
Cartier LOVE Ring, Small Model – 18K Rose Gold with Pavé Diamonds, Size 51
By Cartier
Located in Bay Harbor Islands, FL
Cartier LOVE Ring, Small Model – 18K Rose Gold with Pavé Diamonds, Size 51 An iconic Cartier LOVE ring in the refined small model, crafted in 18K rose gold (Au 750) and fully pavé-s...
Diamond, Rose Gold
Diamond Floral Spray Brooch, Platinum
Located in Braintree, GB
Diamond floral spray brooch in platinum, two full flower heads and a marquise cut leaf spray rising from a triple ribbon of channel set baguettes. The two flower heads are built fro...
Platinum
$4,569Sale Price|20% Off
0.81 Carat Round Brilliant Cut White Diamond Yellow Diamond Gold Necklace
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This pendant necklace from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 0.81-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by yellow diamond acc...
Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
26715 David Yurman 18k Yellow Gold Silver Square Cable Link Rope Bracelet Men's
By David Yurman
Located in Chicago, IL
Sterling Silver & 18k yellow gold bracelet weighs 49.6g Square link measures 8.5mm wide Link measures 9.5mm wide Bracelet measures 8.75'' long end to end Bracelet fits up to 7...
Yellow Gold, Silver
149ct Ruby Mother of Pearl Collar Choker Necklace 15.69ct Diamond 18k Rose Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
FOLLOW SPECTRUM JEWELS storefront to view the latest collection & exclusive pieces. Spectrum Jewels is proudly rated as a Top Seller on 1stdibs with 5 star customer reviews. All ...
Diamond, Pearl, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Natural Pink Extra Large Freshwater Pearl Paradizia Necklace
By Paradizia
Located in Laguna Beach, CA
Description A truly stunning necklace showcasing large 13 to 15 mm semi-baroque freshwater pearls in a unique harmonized variation of natural pink hues, with an unparalleled luster t...
14k Gold
Natural Marquise Cut Diamond Floral Cluster Ring 18K White Gold Fine Jewelry
Located in Deira, AE
Gracefully designed to capture light from every angle, this handcrafted 18K White Gold Marquise Diamond Ring showcases a striking marquise-cut center diamond framed by delicate clust...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$45,697Sale Price|20% Off
19.15 Carat Diamond Gold Bracelet
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This line bracelet from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 19.15-carat diamond in a mixed cut. Crafted in 18k gold, it was chosen for lasting warmth, durability and time...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Gold
Cabochon Ruby and Channel Set Diamond Band Ring 14k Yellow Gold
Located in Honolulu, HI
Item Specifications: Metal: 14K Yellow Gold Ring Size: 7 (resizing available) Total Weight: 3.9 Grams Ring Width: ~7.45 mm Gemstone Specifications: Gemstone: 1 Ruby Shape: Cab...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bvlgari, 18K Gold Mother-of-Pearl Serpenti Quartz Wristwatch
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
This BVLGARI Serpenti watch bangle coils in sculptural rose gold, articulated with scale-like links for fluid movement. Pavé diamonds accent geometric motifs, framing a sleek dial wi...
Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$468Sale Price / item|50% Off
Moissanite solitaire ring for men silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
SIlver, Gold Round Moissanite Ring For Men's. Mens Solitaire Moissanite Ring. Round Cut moissanite Ring. Metal: 925 silver plus 14k gold plating over Weight: 6 gr depends from size...
Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
Rolex Oyster Perpetual 34mm Lavender Dial Oystersteel Watch NEW FULL SET
By Rolex
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fresh addition to Rolex’s Oyster Perpetual collection, reference 124200-0008 pairs a 34mm Oystersteel case with the highly sought-after Lavender dial. Introduced as part of Rolex’s...
Stainless Steel
Earrings with brilliant cut diamonds up to 0.10ct - 4.2 grams- 18k bicolour gold
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k bicolour gold earrings set with brilliant cut diamonds up to approx. 0.10 ct - F/G - VS/SI detailed description: the size of the earring is 1.1 cm high and 1.1 cm wide Total w...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold
Cartier 1960's Ruby 18 Karat Two-Tone Yellow Gold Vintage Turtle Brooch
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Brooch is designed as a stylized turtle with grooved basket weave motif shell defined by linear engraving Additionally comprised of dimensional head, legs, and tail with stipple text...
Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Lagos Caviar Sterling Silver Bangle Bracelet with 18K Gold Accents
By Lagos Caviar
Located in Boca Raton, FL
LAGOS Caviar Bracelet crafted in sterling silver with 18K yellow gold accents, showcasing the iconic Caviar beaded design that has become one of the brand's most recognizable and end...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
26357 Tiffany Co Forever Platinum 1.64ct Diamond 3mm Eternity Wedding Band 4.75
Located in Chicago, IL
Platinum band weighs 3g All round diamonds, total weight 1.64ct Diamonds are F Color VS1 Clarity Band measures 3mm wide Size 4.75 (this is not resizable) Ring stamped ''Tiffany&...
Diamond, Platinum
Robert Lee Morris Wabi Sabi Verdigris 2x1 Block Bracelet 1983
Located in New York, NY
Architecture and organic forms are wed in this chunky block bracelet that is oxidized brass. Using hard edge and graphic shapes that connect with rivets...
Brass
Vintage Tiffany & Co Sculpted Knot Earrings Clip On 18k Yellow Gold Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
Finely detailed pair of vintage Tiffany & Co sculpted knot earrings crafted in 18k yellow gold (circa 1980s). The stylish earrings feature a sculpted knot design. Measuring 0.68 x ...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
26751 BVLGARI Bulgari Parentesi Steel Pave Diamond Pendant Black Cord Necklace
By Bulgari
Located in Chicago, IL
Parentesi collection from Bvlgari Stainless Steel with black cord necklace weighs 25g 30 round pave diamonds, total weight 0.90ct Diamond G color VS1 clarity Pendant measures 60mm ...
Diamond, Steel
$2,406Sale Price|20% Off
12.5Ct Star Ruby Cabochon Ring with Earth-Mined Diamond Accents: Solid 14K Gold
Located in Columbus, OH
A remarkable 12.57-carat star ruby displays a striking six-rayed star across its domed cabochon, set in solid 14K yellow gold with ten earth-mined diamond accents. This large Madagas...
Diamond, Star Ruby, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
26.47 Carat Natural Tanzanite and Diamond Tennis Necklace Made in Platinum
Located in Tokyo, JP
A beautiful necklace featuring 26.47 Carats of Natural Tanzanite and 0.86 Carat Diamonds Made in Platinum. Tanzanite's name was given by Tiffany and Co after its only known source: T...
Diamond, Tanzanite, Platinum
$8,800Sale Price|20% Off
2.62 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Emerald Gold Ring
Located in New York, NY
This statement ring from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 2.62-carat diamond in a round brilliant cut for lively, classic sparkle. It is framed by emerald accents for ...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Cartier Tank Princess Cut Diamond 18k White Gold Bangle Bracelet Size 16
By Cartier
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Cartier Collection: Tank Style: Bangle Bracelet Material: 18k white gold Hallmarks: 1997 Cartier 750 E53038 16 Gemstones/Diamonds: One princess-cut natural diamond approx...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
18 Karat Yellow Gold Platinum Necklace Fancy Diamonds
Located in Salzburg, Salzburg
Gemstone: White, Pink, Yellow, Orange, Green and Champagne Diamonds 20,32ct. Material: Platinum 950; Yellow Gold 750 This beautiful necklace is handcrafted in Yellow Gold and Plati...
White Diamond, Brown Diamond, Diamond, Yellow Diamond, Pink Diamond, Yel...
Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Custom Orange Diamond Dial and Bezel circa, 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 42mm X Diameter ...
Stainless Steel
Hermes, Paris "Angel Hair" style gold wristwatch
By Hermès
Located in New York, NY
A Mid-Century gold watch bracelet, centered by a gold, square face with enameled baton indexes, with an integrated, chevron link bracelet and manual, backwind movement, in 18k. Hermè...
18k Gold
12–13mm White South Sea Pearl, Emerald & Natural Diamond Drop Earrings 18K
Located in 上海市, CN
About SEVENERA GEM-LUSTER At SEVENERA GEM-LUSTER, every piece begins with the pearl. We exclusively work with carefully selected sea pearls that meet our strict “gem-luster” standar...
Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Emerald, White Gold
$3,900Sale Price|50% Off
18K White Gold 1.07ct Oval Ruby & 0.24ct Baguette Diamond Band Ring
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
A striking 18k white gold fine band ring showcasing a vivid 1.07‑carat oval orangish‑red ruby, accented by six baguette‑cut diamonds totaling 0.24 carats. The ruby’s rich, fiery hue ...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold, White Gold
Nina Zhou Rhythm 3.25ctw Natural Aquamarine & Diamond and Pearl Drop Earrings
By Nina Zhou
Located in Newport Beach, CA
These aquamarine pearl drop earrings are crafted in 14K yellow gold and feature an elegant composition of natural pear-shaped aquamarines, diamonds, and luminous freshwater pearls. T...
Pearl, Diamond, Aquamarine, White Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$84,800Sale Price|20% Off
51.5 Carat Heart Shape Diamond Gold Necklace
By EstatebyJR
Located in New York, NY
This necklace from our contemporary estate collection centers on a 51.5-carat diamond in a romantic heart shape. Crafted in 18k gold, it was chosen for lasting warmth, durability and...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Gold
$768Sale Price|20% Off
5.05 Carat Natural Loose Lagoon Green Tourmaline Emerald Cut Afghan Gemstone
Located in Bangkok, TH
Weight 5.05 carat Dimensions 12.9x7.9x6.3mm Treatment None Origin Afghan Clarity Eye Clean Shape Cut Emerald Introducing a stunning 5.05 Carat Natural Loose Lagoon Green Tour...
Tourmaline
Estate Vintage 1970s Elizabeth Gage Sapphire Gold Supple Link Bracelet
Located in Santa Barbara, CA
Inspired by the Roman antiquities at the British Museum, Elizabeth Gage's reverence for history, craft, and gold is evident in this retired 18k Gold Sapphire Station Bracelet. Quinte...
Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
The Peacock Crown 15–16mm Tahitian Pearl Ring PSL Certified Peacock Green
Located in 上海市, CN
About SEVENERA GEM-LUSTER At SEVENERA GEM-LUSTER, every piece begins with the pearl. We exclusively work with carefully selected sea pearls that meet our strict “gem-luster” standar...
Black Pearl, Pearl
GIA Certified 3.56 Carat Pear Light Yellow VVS2 Natural Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in Baltimore, MD
GIA Certified 3.56 Carat Light Yellow VVS2 Natural Diamond Engagement Ring GIA report number: 5231803735 Diamond:n 3.56 carat U-V range VVS2 natural pear shape diamond Accent diamon...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
David Yurman Green Onyx Intaglio Octagon 18k Yellow Gold Ring Size 10
By David Yurman
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: David Yurman Style: Green Onyx Intaglio Octagon Ring Material: 18k yellow gold Hallmarks: DY 750 Gemstones: Natural green onyx with intaglio carving Design: Octagonal sta...
Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Yellow Ceylon Sapphire Diamond Shoulder Ring 18K Yellow Gold
Located in Honolulu, HI
Ring Specifications: Metal: 18k Yellow Gold Total Weight: 9.7 Grams Diamond Count: 12 Baguette, 10 Round, 2 Marquise Diamond Color: G-J Diamond Clarity: VS Diamond Carat Weigh...
Diamond, Sapphire, Yellow Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Set in 18K Rose Gold, 8.50 carats, Morganite & Diamonds Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Morganite Engagement Ring set in 18K Rose Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Morganite is 8.50 carats. The Diamonds weight is 0.4...
Diamond, Morganite, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Bvlgari Engraved Circle Station 18k Yellow Gold Chain Bracelet 6.25"
By Bulgari
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Brand: Bvlgari Style: Engraved Circle Station Chain Bracelet Material: 18k yellow gold Hallmarks: Bvlgari 750 Design: Six engraved circular station link bracelet Bracelet Length...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Donald Stannard Enamel & Crystal Rhinestone Earrings, 1980's
Located in Atlanta, GA
Donald Stannard served as an assistant to Kenneth Jay Lane in the 1960's until 1972 when he started his own line of stylish costume jewelry. His creations feature bold designs with ...
Crystal, Silver, Enamel, Gilt Metal
$505Sale Price / item|70% Off
1.5 ct oval garnet silver, gold ring
Located in Istanbul, TR
1.5 ct oval garnet silver, gold ring. Garnet solitaire. Plain garnet ring. Diamond cut garnet ring. Garnet engagement ring. Wave band ring. Metal: silver 925 plus 14k gold plating o...
Garnet, Gold Plate, Silver
Set in 18K white Gold, Paraiba Tourmaline & Rose Cut Diamonds Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Paraiba "Starburst" Engagement Ring set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Paraiba Tourmaline is 1.67 carats. Th...
Diamond, Tourmaline, Paraiba, 18k Gold, White Gold
$5,600Sale Price|20% Off
Set in Platinum 900, 1.72 carats, Paraiba Tourmaline & Diamonds Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, classical style, Paraiba Engagement Ring set in Platinum 900 & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Paraiba is 1.72 carats. The Diamonds weight is 1.20 ...
Diamond, Paraiba, Platinum
$600Sale Price|20% Off
2.10 Carat Natural Loose Purplish Pink Spinel Stone Cushion Cut Burmese Gemstone
Located in Bangkok, TH
Weight 2.10 carat Dimensions 8.2x6.6x4.6mm Treatment None Origin Burmese Clarity VVS Shape Cut Cushion This 2.10 carat Natural Purplish Pink Spinel is a captivating gemstone...
Spinel
Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso 2.2 TCW Diamond 18K Yellow Gold Platinum Ring, 1980
By Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co.
Located in New York, NY
Rare estate Tiffany & Co. Paloma Picasso 2.2 TCW diamond double sphere east west 18K yellow gold and platinum cocktail ring 20th Century This fabulous double sphere diamond ring...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Scarlet Crown - Natural Burma Ruby Vivid Red Pigeon's Blood GRS Certified Ring
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Scarlet Crown rises with the authority of royal insignia — a jewel shaped for the woman who carries quiet power. At its center burns a 5.25‑carat Burmese ruby, GRS‑certified and glow...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
605.40 carats, natural, Hand - Carved, Green Aquamarine String Necklace
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, carved Green Aquamarine String Necklace. The weight the carved Aquamarines is 605.40 carats. The Aquamarine is completely natural, without any treatmen...
Aquamarine