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.
Piaget Limelight Magic Hour 18k Rose Gold Diamond Watch
By Piaget
Located in Feasterville, PA
18k rose gold watch featuring a sculpted oval case. Inspired by the Limelight Magic Hour collection. Polished finish enhances the warm hue of the rose gold. Adorned with 36 brilliant...
Diamond, Rose Gold
CLEARANCE EVENT, 9.15 cts Natural Diamond Tennis Necklace 14K Yellow 19"
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
Discover Unparalleled Value: Introducing Our Latest Collection of Exquisite Natural Diamond Tennis Necklaces. Boasting 9.15 cts, averaging G-H,VS CLEAN clarity, on a 17-inch chain. 2...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Jean Louis Scherrer Paris Gilded Jeweled Bangle Bracelet
Located in Atlanta, GA
This stunning Jean Louis Scherrer Paris link bangle bracelet features a geometric shape in shiny metal, adorned with resin cabochons in transparent turquoise blue color. The security...
Angela Caputi Multi-Strand Resin Choker Necklace Black, Faux-Marble and Rootbeer
Located in Atlanta, GA
An outstanding resin choker-beaded necklace, designed by Angela Caputi and made in Italy. The multi-strand piece features a three-color contrast; each square pebble bead is carved, d...
Set in 18K Gold, 4.23 carats, natural Zambian Emerald & Diamond Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Emerald Engagement Ring set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Emerald is 4.23 carats. The Emerald is completely nat...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver & 18K Yellow Gold Two-Tone Kiss X Band Ring Size 7
Located in Baltimore, MD
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver & 18 Karat Yellow Gold Two-Tone Kiss X Band Ring Size 7 Metal: Sterling silver & 18 karat yellow gold Weight: 4.96 grams Size: 7 (US) Width: 5mm AD F350...
Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
Line Vautrin Geometric Talosel and Blue Glass Mirrors Brooch
By Line Vautrin
Located in Atlanta, GA
This gorgeous Line Vautrin Talosel geometric brooch is encrusted with clear and blue mirrored glass, featuring iridescence in a tridimensional, modernist shape. The rare piece was cr...
8.65 cts Natural Diamond Tennis Necklace 14K Yellow 16"
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
Discover Unparalleled Value: Introducing Our Latest Collection of Exquisite Natural Diamond Tennis Necklaces. Boasting 8.65 cts, averaging G-H,VS CLEAN clarity, on a 16-inch chain. 1...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Leaf Pendant Necklace
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver pendant necklace. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. In the form of a leaf. With an integral bail to the stem of the leaf. Marked to the reverse of th...
Sterling Silver
Set in 18K Rose Gold, Ceylon Pink Sapphires, Tourmaline & Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Pink Sapphires & Tourmaline Cocktail Ring set in 18K Rose Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Pink Sapphires 14.31 carats. The Pin...
Diamond, Pink Sapphire, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
Ring with sapphire and brilliant cut diamonds up to 0.75ct 18k gold 7.1 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k bicolour gold band ring with a harp pattern set with a central sapphire 1.00 ct and brilliant-cut diamonds up to 0.75 ct - ring size US 7.5 - EU 17.75 (56) Detailed descriptio...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
$840Sale Price|20% Off
Mejuri 14K Yellow Gold Black Enamel & Diamond Ring Size 9.5
Located in New York, NY
Add bold contrast and modern edge to your stack with this pre-owned Mejuri ring, a standout from the Toronto-based fine jewelry brand that revolutionized accessible luxury. Founded i...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
$302Sale Price / item|50% Off
925 Silver Two Stone Emerald Diamond Halo Open Cuff Bangle Bracelet Fine Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
This sparkling open cuff bangle bracelet is crafted in 925 Sterling Silver and showcases 9.12 carats of emerald cut natural emeralds, beautifully accented by a 0.19 carat diamond hal...
Diamond, Emerald, Silver, Sterling Silver
$517Sale Price / item|44% Off
Custom Initials Cufflinks – Personalized Monogram Cufflinks for Men
Located in Istanbul, TR
Custom Initials Cufflinks – Personalized Monogram Cufflinks for Men. Bespoke Initial Cufflinks. Custom Letter Cufflinks. Crafted in solid sterling silver plus white gold plating ove...
Gold Plate, Silver
Leather Cuff Bracelet Studded Spike Tan Buckle Wide Cuff Gold Silver Vintage
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Leather Cuff Bracelet Studded Spike Tan Buckle Wide Cuff Gold Silver Vintage Designer: J DAUPHIN Tan leather studded cuff by J Dauphin, a wide band set across the face with pointed...
Silver Plate, Brass
MODERN Bracelet with brilliant cut diamonds up to 3.20ct 14k gold 12.7 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
14k white gold bracelet set with brilliant-cut diamonds up to 3.20 ct – F/G – VS/SI – 19 cm long Detailed description The bracelet is 19 cm long, 2.5 mm wide, and 1.9 mm high. The...
Diamond, 14k Gold
$200Sale Price / item|50% Off
Silvorra 1.32ct Genuine Round Cut Red Garnet Cross Pendant in Sterling Silver
Located in New York, NY
This refined cross pendant showcases 1.32 carats of natural round garnet, beautifully crafted in 925 sterling silver. The graceful openwork flower design highlights the rich red gems...
Garnet, Sterling Silver
David Yurman Sterling Silver, 18K Gold, and Blue Topaz Cable Cuff Bracelet
By David Yurman
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver, gold, and blue topaz cuff bracelet. By David Yurman. In sterling silver with 18k yellow gold elements. In the 'Cable' pattern. Each terminal bezel-set with...
Topaz, Blue Topaz, 18k Gold, Sterling Silver
$530Sale Price / item|44% Off
Aphrodite Goddess Two-sided Coin Pendant Silver, Gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Two-Sided Aphrodite Coin Pendant. Greek Goddess Aphrodite Coin Pendant. Aphrodite Mythology Coin Necklace Pendant. A beautiful two-sided Aphrodite goddess coin pendant crafted in st...
Gold, Silver
Ring with ruby and brilliant cut diamonds up to 0.20ct 18k gold 5.6 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold ring set with ruby and brilliant-cut diamond total 0.20ct - F/G - VS/SI - ring size U.S. 6.5 - EU. 17(53) detailed description: The top of the ring is 7.1 mm wide...
Diamond, Ruby, 18k Gold
$530Sale Price / item|44% Off
Ring with Natural Rock Crystal cabochon
Located in Istanbul, TR
Elegant ring featuring a natural oval rock crystal in a smooth cabochon cut. The transparent stone softly reflects the light and highlights the clean, minimal beauty of the design. T...
Rock Crystal, Gold Plate, Silver
Coin Necklace Silver Star Medallion Clover Cross Cuba Mens Vintage
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Coin Necklace Silver Star Medallion Clover Cross Cuba Mens Vintage Designer: J DAUPHIN Silver coin necklace, a one of a kind vintage 2008 piece by J Dauphin, centered on a "Patria ...
Silver, Sterling Silver, Brass
Set in 18K Gold, Ethiopian Opal, Multi Sapphire Briolette & Diamond Stud Earring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Opal & Multi Sapphires stud Earrings set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Ethiopian Opal is 7.16 carats. The weigh...
Diamond, Opal, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
$543Sale Price / item|44% Off
Drop Earrings with Natural Sky Blue Topaz, silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Contemporary Silver Sky Blue Topaz Earrings. Asymmetrical Sky Blue Topaz Drop Earrings. Zigzag Sky Blue Topaz Drop Earrings. Weight: 5 gr Size: aprox - 55-58 mm long. Metal: silve...
Topaz, Blue Topaz, Gold Plate, Silver
Ring with brilliant cut diamonds up to 0.60ct 18k gold 5.4 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k bicolor gold ring with brilliant-cut diamond up to 0.60 ct – F/G – VS/SI – ring size US 6 – EU 16.5 (52) Detailed description The top of the ring is 1.0 cm wide and 4.1 mm high...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Bracelet with ruby, sapphire and brilliant cut diamonds up to 1.80ct 14k gold
Located in The Hague, ZH
14k white gold tennis bracelet set with round faceted ruby, sapphire, and brilliant-cut diamonds totaling 1.80ct – F/G – VS/SI – 18.5 cm long Detailed description Length of the bra...
Diamond, Ruby, Sapphire, 14k Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 5 Motif White Gold Mother of Pearl Bracelet
Located in Baltimore, MD
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra 5 Motif White Gold Mother of Pearl Bracelet Metal: 18k white gold Weight: 12.01 grams Length: 7.5 inches Gemstone: Mother of pearl Retail: $5,650...
Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
$530Sale Price / item|44% Off
Two-Sided Persephone Garnet Coin Pendant
Located in Istanbul, TR
Greek Goddess Persephone Coin Pendant. Persephone Mythology Coin Necklace Pendant. Persephone Goddess Necklace with Pomegranate Symbol A beautiful two-sided Persephone goddess coin pendant crafted in sterling silver with rich gold plating. One side features a detailed raised portrait of Persephone...
Garnet, Gold, Silver
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Openwork Criss-Cross or Woven Knot Cuff Bracelet
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver bracelet. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. With a braided or woven wire in a criss-cross pattern (sometimes referred to as a 'Love Knot' or a 'Celtic ...
Sterling Silver
Vintage Gucci sterling silver dangle earrings, interlocking G
By Gucci
Located in NEWARK, GB
A stylish pair of vintage Gucci sterling silver dangle earrings with interlocking GG logo symbol. A classic and timeless design from the early 2000s, they feature a stylised GG styl...
Sterling Silver
$1,707 / item
Green onyx multicolor ring in 14k gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Green onyx multicolor ring in 14k gold. Green onyx oval cabochon ring. Green gemstone cocktail ring. Metal: 14k gold Weight: 3 g, depends on size Gemstone: Green onyx, color - gree...
Amethyst, Citrine, Onyx, Topaz, 14k Gold
$250Sale Price|50% Off
Sterling Silver 2.40ct Squared Deep Red Garnet 3 Stone Ring, Size 6.75
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
A clean, modern three‑stone design in polished sterling silver, set with 2.40 carats of square‑cut garnets. The larger center stone delivers a rich, wine‑red focal point, framed by t...
Garnet, Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co Sterling Sapphire Band Ring Size 7.5 Elsa Peretti
By Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Webster, SD
This beautiful band ring is a product of Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co. It is sterling silver with a genuine sapphire. Measurements: 2.5mm wide Size: 7 1/2 Marks: Tiffany & Co, 925...
Sapphire, Sterling Silver
Vinatge Tiffany & Co Elsa Peretti Five Open Hearts Sterling Silver Bracelet
By Elsa Peretti for Tiffany & Co.
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine Tiffany & Co. 5 Open Hearts bracelet. In sterling silver. Designed by Elsa Peretti. With 5 openwork hearts connected by small chain links and with a spring action clas...
Sterling Silver
$517Sale Price / item|44% Off
Flower design Amethyst Earrings Studs with Colorless Topaz, silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Floral Amethyst Earrings in Gold with Enamel Flowers and Sparkling Stones. Floral Amethyst Cocktail Earrings Silver, gold. Elegant Floral Amethyst Earrings. These earrings feature a...
Amethyst, Topaz, Gold Plate, Silver
Slack Signed 14K Yellow Gold Emerald & Diamond Cat Brooch Pin
Located in New York, NY
Celebrate whimsical luxury with this charming Slack signed 14K yellow gold Emerald and Diamond Cat Brooch, a beautifully crafted designer piece that blends playful artistry with time...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Three stone Rainbow Moonstone 18K Yellow Gold 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 ...
Rainbow Moonstone, Moonstone, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rainbow Moonstone 14K Yellow Gold Zambian Emerald 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, Emerald, Rainbow Moonstone, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$742Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Round Diamond Medallion Pendant Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
About : This 14K yellow gold pendant necklace presents a distinctive round medallion design illuminated by 41 natural round brilliant-cut diamonds. The carefully arranged stones crea...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$417Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Round Cut Diamond Beaded Open Heart Double Band Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Radiating charm and delicate craftsmanship, this beaded open heart ring is a beautiful expression of modern romance. Cast in polished 14k yellow gold (hallmarked 585), the ring featu...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1990s Modern Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet 7 Inches
Located in Webster, SD
This gorgeous, mod style cuff bracelet is sterling silver. The face of this cuff measures 7/8 of an inch at its widest point and tapers down to 3/8 of an inch. It has an inner circu...
Sterling Silver
$454Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Trio Round Diamond Circle Eternity Drop Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
This necklace is a modern take on a classic silhouette. The "Y" shape is specifically designed to elongate the neckline, making it a favorite for pairing with V-neck outfits or eveni...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
1980s Vintage Christian Dior Gold Tone Blue Crystal Dome Clip On Earrings
Located in Vilnius, Vilniaus apskr.
This is a pair of dome clip on earrings designed by Christian Dior in 1980’s. The piece is gold plated, features dark blue, icy blue and clear crystals. Signed: “Chr. Dior” (shown ...
Black Leather Bracelet Wrap Cuff Zipper Mens Buckle Italy J Dauphin
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Black Leather Bracelet Wrap Cuff Zipper Mens Buckle Italy J Dauphin Designer J DAUPHIN The Zipper Triple Wrap Bracelet is a statement piece handcrafted in smooth black calfskin le...
Silver Plate, Brass, Silver
Tiffany & Co Paloma Picasso 18k Gold & Citrine Cabochon Olive Leaf Drop Earrings
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine pair of vintage Tiffany gold and citrine earrings. By Paloma Picasso for Tiffany & Co. In 18 karat yellow gold. Each earring with a bezel-set citrine cabochon and with a ol...
Citrine, 18k Gold
Skull Charm Bracelet Curb Chain Spikes Bottle Silver Plated
By J DAUPHIN
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Skull Charm Bracelet Silver Mens Curb Chain Spike Toggle Vintage Designer: J DAUPHIN Skull charm bracelet in silver plated brass on a chunky curb chain, a one of a kind vintage 200...
Brass, Silver Plate, Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver 18 Karat Yellow Gold Coil Band Ring
Located in Baltimore, MD
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver 18 Karat Yellow Gold Coil Band Ring Metal: Sterling silver & 18k yellow gold Weight: 3.87 grams Size: 6.5 (US) Width: 2.5mm RD F35002450
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
14K Yellow Gold Turquoise & Diamond Clip-On Earrings, 66.46ct Total
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
Make a vibrant statement with these spectacular 14K yellow gold turquoise and diamond clip-on earrings, expertly designed to showcase the timeless beauty of natural turquoise in a bo...
Diamond, Turquoise, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Grosse Gold Tone Textured Bow Brooch, Germany, 1964
By Grosse
Located in NEWARK, GB
A gorgeous vintage statement brooch. This brooch is such a versatile piece and ideal for adding a finishing touch to any your outfits to elevate them to the next level, made by Gros...
Gold Plate
$1,150Sale Price|50% Off
18K Gold 0.70ct Squared Emerald & 0.10ct Diamond Channel Band Ring
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
A sleek study in symmetry and saturated color, this 18k gold channel‑set band ring features a vibrant procession of ten square‑cut emeralds (0.70 carats total) punctuated by two squa...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold
Set in 18K white Gold, Blue Sapphire, Pink Sapphire & Diamonds Engagement Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Blue Sapphire & Pink Sapphire Engagement Ring set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Blue Sapphire is 1.06 c...
Pink Sapphire, Blue Sapphire, Diamond, White Gold, 18k Gold
Edouard Rambaud Paris Mat Finish Gilded Metal Sun Brooch
Located in Atlanta, GA
A stunning sun brooch created by French designer Edouard Rambaud, Paris. The piece features a carved and textured design with a gilt metal in mat finishing. The brooch has a security...
Gilt Metal
$937Sale Price|25% Off
Zambian Emerald and Spinel 18K Yellow Gold Pendant
Located in GOES, NL
This minimalistic pendant showcases a rare and captivating emerald and spinel celebrated for its remarkable natural colour transition and distinctive character. Carefully selected fo...
Spinel, Emerald, Yellow Gold, 18k Gold
Vintage Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Medium Hoop Earrings
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine vintage pair of signed medium hoop earrings. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. Secured with pushback closures. Marked to the reverse of the pushbacks. Simply wonderful...
Sterling Silver
5.50 Carat Amethyst and 3.08 ctw White Zircon Ring in Sterling Silver Size 10
Located in Webster, SD
This brilliant, sold-out, hard to find ring makes a royal statement. A 10x15mm 5.50 carat cushion-cut purple amethyst is regally set within a collection of 3.08 ct. t.w. white zircon...
Amethyst, Zircon, Sterling Silver
Genuine Emerald Diamond & Tourmaline Yellow Gold Pendant
Located in GOES, NL
This statement pendant showcases a rare and captivating pink tourmaline, zambian emeralds, diamonds and natural pearls, all celebrated for their remarkable natural colour transition ...
Tourmaline, Natural Pearl, Emerald, Diamond, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
Courreges Paris Cobalt Blue Acrylic Lucite Cuff Bangle Bracelet
By Courrèges
Located in Atlanta, GA
This stunning Courreges Paris Lucite or acrylic resin bangle bracelet features an important cuff design in a transparent cobalt blue color with a cone shape. The piece is signed on t...
$1,161Sale Price|20% Off
18KT White Gold Three-Stone Emerald Cut Diamond Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
This sophisticated three-stone ring features a trio of emerald-cut diamonds set in a sleek, high-polish 18K white gold band. Representing a couple's past, present, and future, the ce...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$215Sale Price|50% Off
Vintage Sterling Silver 2.19ct Oval Sky-Blue Topaz Signet Band Ring, Size 7.5
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
Vintage sterling silver signet ring set with a bright 2.19‑carat oval Sky Blue Topaz in a smooth bezel. The gemstone shows crisp, watery brilliance, paired with a solid, rounded silv...
Topaz, Blue Topaz, Sterling Silver
Set in 18K White Gold, Pink Sapphire & Rose Cut Diamond Stud Earring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and gorgeous, modern style, Pink Sapphire Stud Earring set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamond. The weight of the Pink Sapphires is 2.34 carats. The combined Diam...
Diamond, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold