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.
Francoise Montague Green Floral Resin Dangle Clip Earrings
Located in Atlanta, GA
Cilea Paris designed these stunning, dimensional, dangling resin clip-on earrings for French Jewelry designer Francoise Montague. The floral-inspired, handmade, artisanal shape featu...
Miu Miu Turquoise and Yellow Acrylic Jeweled Bracelet Bangle with Apple Charm
By Miu Miu
Located in Atlanta, GA
This Miu Miu Italy acrylic jeweled bracelet is a cute bangle with a charm. Carved from a transparent acrylic or Lucite material, the piece is paved with crystal rhinestones all aroun...
Emerald Diamond 18 Karat Yellow Gold Cocktail Ring
Located in Boca Raton, FL
18K Yellow Gold Emerald & Diamond Ring featuring a stunning approximately 2.09 carat emerald-cut emerald as its vibrant centerpiece. Framing the emerald are twenty-eight round br...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Angela Caputi Pink and Gold Resin Dangle Flamenco Floral Clip Earrings
Located in Atlanta, GA
These stunning Angela Caputi, made-in-Italy, resin clip-on earrings feature an important dangling design with wavy-shaped floral elements. The pieces boast antique rose, gold, turquo...
14K Solid White Gold Diamond Ring with Ruby
Located in Naples, NY
I ship all my products from the USA! Not my handwork! I'm selling my used CIRARI Ruby and Diamond ring! I bought it about 3 years ago on Gemshoping TV. At that time I wore white go...
Diamond, Ruby, 14k Gold
$185Sale Price|20% Off
18KT Yellow Gold Modern Bezel-Set 0.5ct Diamond Stud Earrings
Located in Antwerp, BE
Designed for both style and functionality, the low-profile bezel setting offers a snag-free finish that is ideal for an active lifestyle. To ensure maximum comfort and security, thes...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$524Sale Price / item|77% Off
Oval Amethyst Ring Silver, Gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Oval Cabochon Amethyst Ring Silver, Gold. Bold Amethyst Cabochon Cocktail Ring, Gold Over Silver. Modern Sculptural Amethyst Ring in Gold Over Silver Metal: 925 silver + 14k gold pl...
Amethyst, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
$524Sale Price / item|77% Off
Oval Cabochon Opal Ring Silver, Gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Oval Cabochon Opal Ring Silver, Gold. Bold Opal Cabochon Cocktail Ring, Gold Over Silver. Modern Sculptural Opal Ring in Gold Over Silver Metal: 925 silver + 14k gold plating over W...
Opal, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
Rare Substantial Seaman Schepps 18K Yellow Gold Pyramid Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
Impressive Seaman Schepps 18K yellow gold Pyramid bracelet 20th Century Provenance: Estate of a prominent New York socialite This rare, stunning...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$519Sale Price / item|44% Off
Amethyst and Colorless Topaz Drop Earrings studs, silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Amethyst and Colorless Topaz Drop Earrings studs, silver, gold. Dangle Amethyst earrings. Cocktail earrings with Amethystes cabochon. Contemporary Amethyst and Colorless Topaz Earrin...
Amethyst, Topaz, Gold Plate, Silver
Gucci Black Plexiglass and Crystal Jeweled Cuff Bracelet, 2013 Runway Collection
By Gucci
Located in Atlanta, GA
Gucci Spectacular Bracelet by Frida Giannini, Fall/Winter 2013 Runway A rare and electrifying creation from Gucci's Fall/Winter 2013 runway collection, this sculptural cuff bracelet—...
Marina J. Large Baroque Black Pearl Necklace with 14 Karat Gold Beads and Clasp
By Marina J.
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This necklace features large Black Baroque Pearls meeting at a 14k Yellow Gold toggle clasp. Each pearl was carefully selected by Marina J., to create balanced aesthetic for this pie...
Black Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$180Sale Price / item|55% Off
Silvorra Two Stone Oval Cut Ruby & Diamond Split Shank Bypass Ring in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
This gorgeous two stone bypass ring showcases two oval cut natural rubies totaling 1.65 carats crafted in 925 sterling silver. The vibrant rubies are accented by two round brilliant ...
Diamond, Ruby, Silver, Sterling Silver
Pearl Necklace with Gold Multi-Strand Freshwater Pearls Large Mother of Pearl
Located in Buckingham , Buckinghamshire
A beautifully crafted contemporary necklace composed of a finely executed torsade of lustrous white freshwater pearls, centred by a striking sculptural mother-of-pearl pendant mounte...
Freshwater Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold
Set in 18K White Gold, natural Zambian Emerald & Diamonds Bridal Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Emerald Engagement Bridal Ring set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Emeralds is 1.34 carats. The Emeralds are ...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold
$513Sale Price / item|44% Off
Bezel Set Oval Emerald Wide Matte Band silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Bezel Set Oval Emerald Wide Matte Band ring silver, gold. Oval Solitaire Ring. Minimalist Luxury Pinky Ring. Vintage Style Signet Ring for Men with Oval Emerald. Oval Pinky Ring for ...
Emerald, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
GIA certified Oval Diamond 6.76 carats 18kt Yellow Gold Diamond Ring, NEW
Located in Oklahoma City, OK
Sometimes a diamond simply stops you in your tracks. This is one such stone. Presenting an exceptional 6.76 carat Oval Diamond, Brilliant Cut, GIA Certified. The generous spread of ...
Diamond, 18k Gold
18k yellow gold jade hinged bracelet – 53.4 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold jade hinged bracelet – 53.4 grams Detailed description the width of the bracelet is 9.7 mm Inner size of the bracelet is 5.5 cm wide Total weight : 53.4 grams se...
Jade, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Formal Blue Topaz Heart Necklace 18 Inches
Located in Webster, SD
This beautiful necklace is sterling silver. Each of the genuine London blue heart cut topaz stones weighs 1 carat for a total of 5 carats. There are 17 round cut 3.5mm white zircons that accent the chain throughout. It measures 18 inches...
Topaz, Sterling Silver
$513Sale Price / item|44% Off
Signet Ring with Garnet for Men silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Signet Ring with Garnet for Men silver, gold. Square Solitaire Ring. Minimalist Luxury Pinky Ring. Modern Gentleman Jewelry Metal: 925 silver plus 14k gold plating over Weight: 4.5 ...
Garnet, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
Genuine Ruby Bolo Bracelet Sterling Silver
Located in Webster, SD
This gorgeous bolo bracelet is sterling silver. It was made for Kay by Chuck Clemency. It features 7 oval cut, 4x5mm ruby gemstones. The bracelet is adjustable from 5 to 9 inches. ...
Ruby, Sterling Silver
Regal Length Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Yellow Gold Necklace
Located in GOES, NL
A regal length sky blue Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Necklace. Fully consisting off genuine turquoises, delicately strung together with solid 14k gold sparkling beads, creating an elega...
Turquoise, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$513Sale Price / item|44% Off
Signet Ring with Amethyst for Men silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Signet Ring with Amethyst for Men silver, gold. Square Solitaire Ring. Minimalist Luxury Pinky Ring. Modern Gentleman Jewelry Metal: 925 silver plus 14k gold plating over Weight: 4....
Amethyst, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
Ring with sapphire and brilliant cut diamonds up to 1.00ct 14k gold 7.9 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
14k white gold halo ring set with sapphire and brilliant-cut diamonds (total approx. 1.00 ct - F/G - VS/SI) - ring size US 7.25 - EU 17.5 (55) Detailed description The top of the r...
Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold
Costa Brava Shell Pendant with Natural Diamond
Located in Miami, FL
Costa Brava Pendant is made of natural shell with 14k gold and .10 carat natural diamond. This delicate beauty fits on most small to medium sized chains, consider adding a chain or d...
Diamond, 14k Gold
Kai One-of-a-Kind AIGS Certified 3.56ct Colombian Emerald Ring, US 7
Located in Newport Beach, CA
A striking celebration of rarity and craftsmanship, this one-of-a-kind ring showcases a certified Colombian emerald of exceptional presence and character. Framed in a bold yet refine...
Emerald, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Genuine Giant Blue Larimar Diamonds White Gold Necklace
Located in GOES, NL
Make a bold heavenly statement with this breathtaking sky blue larimar beaded necklace. Hand-knotted with methicious care and finished in dazzling 14K solid gold, it hangs with large...
Larimar, Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Regal Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Diamonds Snake Necklace with Emerald
Located in GOES, NL
A regal giant 21 inch long handcrafted necklace with extremely rare and pure untreated Sleeping Beauty Turquoises, natural diamonds, colombian emeralds and genuine sapphires. This ne...
Diamond, Emerald, Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Turquoise, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Twist Knot Stud Earrings
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine pair of signed silver earrings. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. Each in the form of a twist knot or love knot. Each secured with a pushback closure. Marked to t...
Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co. Elsa Peretti Diamonds by the Yard Platinum Diamond Chain Ring
By Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co.
Located in University Place, WA
A delicate and modern take on the diamond ring, this piece comes from Elsa Peretti's iconic Diamonds by the Yard collection for Tiffany & Co. In place of a traditional solid band, a ...
Diamond, Platinum
Genuine Estate Layered Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Diamond Pendant Necklace
Located in GOES, NL
A regal double estate layered 20 inch long handcrafted necklace with extremely rare and pure Sleeping Beauty Turquoises. This necklace features genuine high grade turquoises from the...
Diamond, Turquoise, 14k Gold, White Gold
$513Sale Price / item|44% Off
Signet Ring with Topaz for Men silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Signet Ring with Topaz for Men silver, gold. Square Solitaire Ring. Minimalist Luxury Pinky Ring. Modern Gentleman Jewelry Metal: 925 silver plus 14k gold plating over Weight: 4.5 g...
Blue Topaz, Topaz, Silver, Yellow Gold, White Gold, Rose Gold, Gold Plate
Christian Dior Black Acrylic Resin Bracelet Bangle with Gilded Hearts
Located in Atlanta, GA
This stunning Christian Dior bracelet features a chunky black acrylic or Lucite bangle with assorted gilded heart designs embedded in the material. The bracelet is engraved on the ed...
$400Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Pear Cut Swiss Blue Topaz and Diamond Drop Pendant Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
The teardrop-shaped gemstone is suspended from a gracefully curved pave diamond bail, adding a layer of sophisticated sparkle and fluid movement. The topaz is held securely in a thre...
Diamond, Blue Topaz, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
Set in 18K Gold, 27.67 carat, Zambian Emerald & Rose Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Emerald Engagement Cocktail Ring set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Emerald is 26.67 carats. The Emerald is comp...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold
$466Sale Price / item|50% Off
Split Shank oval peridot engagement silver, gold ring
Located in Istanbul, TR
Split Shank oval peridot engagement silver, gold ring. Vintage Style Oval peridot Ring. Minimalist Luxury Pinky Ring. Vintage Style Signet Ring for Men with Oval peridot. Oval Pinky ...
Peridot, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
$513Sale Price / item|44% Off
Art Deco Signet Ring for Men with Garnet, silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Art Deco Signet Ring for Men with Garnet, silver, gold. Rectangular Garnet Ring for Men. Men’s Garnet Signet Ring. Vintage Pinky Ring, Gift for Him Metal: 925 silver plus 14k gold ...
Garnet, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
Freshwater Pearl and SeaShell Multi Strand Choker Necklace
Located in Atlanta, GA
This exquisite multi-strand freshwater pearl choker is designed to captivate. A breathtaking blend of shimmery gray, black, and smoky pink rice seed pearls creates a luminous, sophis...
Freshwater Pearl, Silver Plate
$519Sale Price / item|44% Off
Topaz and Colorless Topaz Drop Earrings silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Vintage style topaz earrings silver, gold. Dangle topaz earrings. Cocktail earrings with topaz. Elegant drop earrings designed with a refined celestial motif, featuring star-shaped ...
Topaz, Gold Plate, Silver
STOCK CLEARANCE GIA CERTIFIED, 6.44 Carat Natural Blue Sapphire Oval Shape
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
GIA Certified 6.44-Carat Natural Sapphire – Blue – Oval Shape This stunning 6.44-carat natural sapphire is a true statement piece, perfect for high-end jewelry enthusiasts or collec...
Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
Sky Blue Aquamarine Kyanite & Diamond Woven Silver Bracelet
Located in GOES, NL
Discover timeless elegance with this exquisite Aquamarine, Kyanite & Diamond Yellow Gold Vermeil Bracelet, a refined piece designed to add effortless sophistication to any jewelr...
Diamond, Kyanite, Aquamarine, Silver
Luxury 3.49Ct Round Brilliant Diamond Tennis Bracelet in 14K Solid Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This diamond tennis bracelet showcases 3.49 carats of natural round brilliant diamonds set in 14K Yellow gold. Each measuring approximately 2.4 mm and securely set in classic prong s...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14KY Gold GIA Certified 7.11 Carat Natural Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl & Diamond Ring
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
Discover the captivating beauty of one of the world's rarest gemstones with this exceptional 14K Yellow Gold Cat's Eye Chrysoberyl and Diamond Ring. At its center rests a magnificent...
Chrysoberyl, Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$513Sale Price / item|44% Off
Split Shank oval emerald engagement silver, gold ring
Located in Istanbul, TR
Split Shank oval emerald engagement silver, gold ring. Vintage Style Oval emerald Ring. Minimalist Luxury Pinky Ring. Vintage Style Signet Ring for Men with Oval emerald. Oval Pinky ...
Emerald, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
GIA Certified Natural Emerald &Old Cut Diamond Three Stone Cluster Platinum Ring
Located in OVIEDO, AS
Natural Colombian Emerald and diamond three stone Ring This Colombian emerald has a beautiful combination of color and tone. The emerald is 70% primary green color with a medium inte...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
$513Sale Price / item|44% Off
Amethyst solitaire ring for men silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
SIlver, Gold Round Amethyst Ring For Men's. Mens Solitaire Amethyst Ring. Emerald Cut Amethyst Ring. Metal: 925 silver plus 14k gold plating over Weight: 4 gr depends from size 1 pi...
Amethyst, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
4.24 Carat Natural Round Diamond Huggie Hoop Earrings 18K White Gold Handmade
Located in Deira, AE
Designed to make a statement while remaining timeless, these handcrafted hoop earrings showcase an elegant row of brilliant round natural diamonds that deliver exceptional fire and b...
Diamond, Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. 4.87 Carat Lucida Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Crafted in platinum by the esteemed American house of Tiffany & Co., this exceptional ring showcases a magnificent Lucida cut diamond weighing 4.87 carats, graded I color and VVS2 cl...
Diamond, Platinum
$187Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra Natural Emerald Octagon Cut Stackable Solitaire Ring in 925 Silver
Located in New York, NY
This elegant ring features a natural emerald gemstone in a refined octagon shape, secured in a classic four prong setting that allows the vibrant green stone to take center stage. Cr...
Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
6.10 Ct Zambian Emerald 6.46 Ct Diamond Floral Drop Earrings 18K White Gold
Located in Deira, AE
Crafted in luminous 18K White Gold, these exceptional drop earrings showcase the timeless beauty of natural Zambian emeralds framed by a dazzling halo of natural diamonds. The rich 6...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Rossella Ugolini Anchor Chain Sterling Silver Chain Necklace Made in Italy
Located in Rome, IT
Rossella Ugolini anchor-inspired chain Sterling Silver Chain Necklace Made in Italy. Bold Chaine d'Ancre Marine Silver Sterling Necklace, cm 45 in length. 18 inches, grams 41,50. ava...
Silver, Sterling Silver
39.85 Carat Natural Loose Swiss Blue Topaz Stone Cushion Cut African Gemstone
Located in Bangkok, TH
Weight 39.85 carat Dimensions 21.0x15.4x12.7 mm Treatment None Origin African Clarity Loup Clean Shape Cut Cushion This 39.85 Carat Natural Loose Swiss Blue Topaz is an ex...
Topaz, Blue Topaz
Soltaire ring with old mine cut diamond up to 3.40ct M/N SI1 18k gold
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold solitaire ring with old mine cut diamond total 3.40ct – M/N – SI1 - ring size U.S. 6.5 – EU. 17(53) Detailed description the top of the ring is 1.1 cm wide and 9.1 ...
Diamond, 18k Gold
$708Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Oval London Blue Topaz and Diamond Halo Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Sophisticated and striking, this London Blue Topaz Halo Ring is a masterclass in elegant contrast. At its center lies a captivating, deep-sea-toned oval-cut London Blue Topaz, secure...
Blue Topaz, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
Breitling Chronometre Navitimer Stainless Steel Leather Strap Mens Watch A23322
By Breitling
Located in Baltimore, MD
Breitling Chronometre Navitimer Stainless Steel Leather Strap Mens Watch A23322 Model: A23322 Case: 42mm Metal: Stainless steel Strap: Black leather with steel deployment Dial: Black...
Steel, Stainless Steel
Van Cleef & Arples Vintage Alhambra Mother-Of-Pearl 18K White Gold Stud Earrings
Located in Boca Raton, FL
18K White Gold Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Mother-of-Pearl Earrings. These iconic earrings feature the maison’s signature Alhambra clover motif, beautifully crafted in 18...
Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Ring with pearl, ruby and brilliant cut diamonds 0.23 ct, 14k gold 3.1 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
14k white gold entourage ring with a central pearl and as entourage ruby and brilliant cut diamond 0.23ct - F/G - VS/SI - ring size US 8.5 - EU 18.5 (58) detailed description: th...
Diamond, Pearl, Ruby, 14k Gold
$874Sale Price / item|50% Off
Oval cab opal ring in 14k gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Oval cab opal ring in 14k gold. Floral design ring with opal. Metal: 14k gold Weight: 3 gr depends from size 1 piece (central stone) - opal 8x6 mm, oval cab cut, colorless. Colorl...
Topaz, Opal, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold, White Gold, 14k Gold, Gold
Ring with brilliant cut diamonds up to 1.48ct 18k yellow gold 8.6 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold ring with brilliant cut diamonds 1.48ct - F/G - VS/SI - ring size U.S. 6.5 - EU. 17(53) detailed description: the top of the ring is 2.5 cm wide Weight 8.6 grams ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$466Sale Price / item|50% Off
Ruby solitaire ring for men silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
SIlver, Gold Round Cabochon Ruby Ring For Men's. Mens Solitaire Ruby Ring. Round Cut Ruby Ring. Metal: 925 silver plus 14k gold plating over Weight: 6 gr depends from size 1 piece (...
Ruby, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver