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.
Vintage Vendome Gold Tone Choker Necklace, Circa 1980s
By Vendome
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Vendome Gold Tone Narrow Choker Circa 1980s. The pattern resembles a loop. It is .25" thick. This is the kind of piece that you never know yo...
Mixed Metal
MESSIKA 18 Karat Pink Gold Move Diamond Necklace ‘Anniversary Edition’
By Messika
Located in Amsterdam, NL
With this 18 carat pink gold pavé diamond necklace from the Move 10th jewelry collection, Messika has returned to the graphic style of this line, a tribute to the 10th anniversary of...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
2.40 Carat Natural Loose Lavender Spinel Stone Cushion Cut Tanzanian Gemstone
Located in Bangkok, TH
Weight 2.40 carat Dimensions 9.2x6.9x4.7mm Treatment None Origin Tanzanian Clarity Eye Clean Shape Cut Cushion This exquisite 2.40-carat natural Lavender Spinel from Tanzan...
Spinel
Nina Zhou Symphony 30.10ctw Aquamarine Turquoise Diamond Statement Necklace
By Nina Zhou
Located in Newport Beach, CA
The Enchanted Symphony 30.10ctw Aquamarine Turquoise Diamond Statement Necklace is a mesmerizing statement piece that harmonizes the serene shades of turquoise with the radiant shimm...
Diamond, Turquoise, Aquamarine, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$650Sale Price|50% Off
18K White Gold 0.10ct Cluster Vivid Round Tsavorite & 0.10ct Diamond Halo Ring
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
Modern and refined, this 18k white gold Italian shank ring features a vivid 0.10ct round tsavorite cluster framed by a 0.10ct diamond halo. The sleek bezel and cone‑shaped under‑gall...
Diamond, Tsavorite, 18k Gold, White Gold
Tiffany & Co. Circlet Diamond Stud Earrings in Platinum PT950 — 26 Diamond Pavé
Located in Plantation, FL
A classic and elegant pair of Tiffany & Co. Circlet stud earrings crafted in platinum (PT950), one of the most iconic designs from America’s foremost luxury jeweler. Each earring fea...
Diamond, Platinum
Nina Zhou Sunflower 2.77ctw Turquoise & Diamond Earrings
By Nina Zhou
Located in Newport Beach, CA
These sunflower earrings by Nina Zhou bring a burst of joyful color with their vibrant turquoise petals and diamond-set centers. The clean, symmetrical design captures the cheerful e...
Diamond, Turquoise, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Lugano 6.88 carat Paraiba tourmaline diamond 18K white gold necklace
By Lugano
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This exceptional Lugano necklace is a captivating contemporary jewel, centered by a heart shape Paraiba tourmaline weighing an impressive 6.88 carats. The center stone offers the viv...
Diamond, Tourmaline, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra Turquoise 18K White Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Fairfax, VA
A refined and highly collectible Van Cleef & Arpels Vintage Alhambra pendant necklace, crafted in solid 18K white gold (Au750) and set with a vibrant natural turquoise motif. The...
Turquoise, 18k Gold, White Gold
$3,288Sale Price / item|20% Off
3.27 Ct Square Cut Emerald Solitaire Necklace with 14K Yellow Gold Curb Chain
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This solitaire pendant necklace features a 3.27 carat set in 14k yellow gold. with an estimated stone size of 8.9 x 9.8 mm, showcasing a rich green hue and refined clarity. The emer...
Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Chrome Hearts Cross Symbol Diamond 22 Karat Gold Bracelet
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: Authentic Chrome Hearts bracelet crafted in luxurious 22K yellow gold and accented with brilliant natural diamonds throughout. Featuring the brand’s iconic cross symbol ...
Diamond, Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
Gold, Platinum, Diamond, & Ruby Goldfish Motif Cufflinks by Nicholas Varney
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This wonderful, unique and very dimensional pair of cufflinks, created by lauded jewelry designer Nicholas Varney, are truly exquisite in every aspect. Mr. Varney is reknowned for th...
Diamond, Ruby, Gold, 18k Gold, Platinum, Yellow Gold
Nina Zhou 5.92 ctw Aquamarine & Diamond Double Blossom Drop Earrings
By Nina Zhou
Located in Newport Beach, CA
The 5.92 ctw Aquamarine Diamond Double Blossom Drop Earrings radiate a serene elegance, with sky-blue aquamarines arranged in a charming floral design. Each gemstone is carefully set...
Aquamarine, Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold
60s Coral Diamond Swirl Ring Sz 4.75 Vintage 14k Gold Cocktail Fine Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
Stylish vintage coral & diamond 'swirl' ring (circa 1960s) crafted in 14 karat yellow gold. Coral measures from 3.5mm to 5mm wide. Two small diamonds total an estimated 0.02 carats...
Coral, Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
4.74 Carats Diamonds, 18 Karat White Gold Tennis Necklace.
Located in Napoli, Campania
Elegant tennis necklace in 18 kt white gold structure mounted with diamonds. Diamonds 4.74 ct Total Weight 15.20 gr RF G GIAGG RK.AUUEE126 For any informations, feel free to co...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$96,000Sale Price|20% Off
Haute Joaillerie Natural Diamond Tiara in 18K White Gold, 13.59 Carats
Located in Deira, AE
Conceived as a unique work of high jewelry, this exceptional diamond tiara was created as a singular expression of craftsmanship and design. Executed entirely by hand in 18-karat whi...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Chrome Hearts Scroll Cable Oval Link 22 Karat Gold Chain Bracelet
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: Authentic Chrome Hearts Paper Chain bracelet crafted in gold and featuring the brand’s iconic scroll and cable link design elements. Renowned for its bold gothic-inspire...
Diamond, Gold, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold
$530Sale Price / item|44% Off
Citrine briolette earrings studs silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Citrine briolette earrings studs silver. Water lily earrings. Citrine earrings. Citrine flower earrings. Gold leaves earrings. November bir...
Citrine, Diamond, 14k Gold
3.76 Carat GIA Certified Ceylon Sapphire Three-Stone Platinum Engagement Ring
By Merkaba
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
A remarkable 3.76 carat Ceylon sapphire alternative engagement ring in platinum, centered by a natural cushion cut sapphire from Sri Lanka and accompanied by a GIA report. Elegant, r...
Diamond, White Diamond, Multi-gemstone, Sapphire, Platinum
$1,512Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Roadrunner Brooch with Ruby Accent
Located in New York, NY
Whimsical yet refined, this roadrunner brooch is crafted in solid 14K yellow gold and accented with a vivid 2.00mm round ruby, adding a subtle pop of color and personality. Marked “1...
Ruby, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,248Sale Price / item|20% Off
Modern 2.43Ct Oval Emerald Solitaire Wave Ring in 14K Yellow Gold Gift for Her
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This modern wave-style solitaire ring showcases a stunning 2.43-carat oval-cut emerald, beautifully set in polished 14K yellow gold. The gemstone measures approximately 10 × 7.5 mm a...
Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,840Sale Price|20% Off
14.60 Carat Natural Loose Rutile Inclusion Peridot Round Cut Pakistani Gemstone
Located in Bangkok, TH
Weight 14.60 carat Dimensions 15.2x15.2x10.5mn Treatment None Origin Pakistan Clarity VVS Shape Cut Round This impressive 14.60 carat Natural Peridot showcases rare and att...
Peridot
Van Cleef & Arpels Socrate Flower Diamond 18k White Gold Pendant Necklace
Located in Feasterville, PA
A Van Cleef & Arpels 18k White Gold Necklace with Delicate Floral Elegance. Crafted from 18k white gold, this necklace embodies the luxury and poetic artistry synonymous with Van Cl...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Ciner Chunky Link Choker Necklace, Circa 1980s
By Ciner
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Ciner Chunky Linking Pieces Choker Necklace Circa 1980s. This is one of the classic necklaces from the 1980s that stands out with its distinctive...
Mixed Metal
Earrings with carnelian and brilliant cut diamonds 14.4 grams 18k gold
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold earrings set with carnelian and brilliant cut diamonds, approximately 0.25ct in total - F/G - VS/SI detailed description: The size of the ear studs is 3.2 cm by 1.1...
Carnelian, Diamond, 18k Gold
Antique 9 Carat Gold Band
Located in Chipping Campden, GB
This band is plain and modelled in glossy 9ct gold. It could be worn as an every day ring or a classic wedding ring. Made in Birmingham England. Ring Size: Y or 12 Band Width: 7mm ...
Gold
Rounded Box Chain Necklace 14kt Yellow Gold 18in 1.6mm Hollow New
Located in West Hempstead, NY
This rounded box chain necklace is crafted in 14kt yellow gold and features a sleek, polished design with rounded box style links. The clean and modern look makes it an excellent eve...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Necklace and pendant with coral 14k yellow gold 12.7 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
14k gold clasp on a coral necklace with a gold centerpiece set with coral - 40 cm Detailed description The necklace with clasp is approximately 40 cm long. The centerpiece is 3.1 ...
Coral, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
70s Diamond Wide Band Sz 9 Cigar Ring Vintage 18k Yellow Gold Fine Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
Stylish diamond wide band crafted in 18 karat yellow gold (circa 1970s). The larger old European cut diamond is estimated at 0.50 carats, accented with 12 single cut diamonds (esti...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
14 Karat Yellow Gold Trinity Rolling Band Natural Diamonds Ring
Located in Baltimore, MD
14 Karat Yellow Gold Trinity Rolling Band Natural Diamonds Ring Metal: 14k yellow gold Weight: 13.33 grams Diamonds: Approx. 0.90 CTW H-I VS round natural diamonds Width: Each band i...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified 2.04 Carats Vivid-Red, Burmese Rubies Earrings Made in Platinum
Located in Tokyo, JP
A gorgeous pair of Rubies weighing a total of 2.04 Carats coming from Burma and Pigeon's Blood in Color. The diamonds are a further 0.70 Carats. Rubies are referred to as "Ratnaraj" ...
Diamond, Ruby, Platinum
Gold Tone Silver Plated Race Car Cufflinks Detailed Moving Wheels Playful Lux
Located in New York, NY
Add a touch of personality and sophistication to your ensemble with this charming pair of gold tone, silver plated race car cufflinks. Expertly crafted with impressive detail — from ...
Gold, Gold Plate, Silver Plate
GRS Cert. 2.29 Carat Natural Vivid Green, Heart-Shaped Emerald and Diamond Ring
Located in Tokyo, JP
A stunning ring featuring a GRS Certified 2.29 Carat Natural Vivid Green, Insignificantly Treated Emerald and 0.33 Carats of Diamond Accents set in Platinum. People have admired emer...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
ADA Jewelry Stretch Bracelet, 3.15 Carats, 14K Yellow Gold, Natural Diamonds
By ADA Jewelry
Located in New York, NY
Classic and elegant diamond stretch bracelet crafted in 14K yellow gold, featuring 3.15 carats of natural round brilliant diamonds. Designed with a flexible stretch fit, this bracele...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Genuine HERMES Heure H Orange HH1.210.830 Quartz Watch.
By Hermès
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
This is an authentic HERMES Stainless Steel 21mm by 30mm Rectangle Huere Watch. Hermes Orange Dial ref. HH1.210.830/4804 Condition: NEW battery installed. Comes with original Bo...
Stainless Steel
IGI Certified 10.19 Carat Aquamarines Earrings in 18K White Gold
Located in KOWLOON, HK
This pair of 18K White Gold Earrings, certified by the International Gemological Institute (IGI), is a breathtaking study in serene color and substantial brilliance. At their heart a...
Diamond, Aquamarine, 18k Gold, White Gold
GemFusion 13.65ctw Topaz Peridot Citrine Diamond Pearl Convertible Drop Earrings
Located in Newport Beach, CA
A symphony of color and craftsmanship, these GemFusion earrings combine Swiss blue topaz, golden citrine, and vivid green peridot — each gemstone faceted to capture light from every ...
Citrine, Diamond, Pearl, Peridot, Topaz, 14k Gold
4.46 cts GIA Certified Oval Emerald and Diamond Side-stone Ring
Located in New York, NY
A beautiful oval emerald and diamond side stone ring, showcasing a mesmerizing 4.46ct GIA-certified center gemstone. Enveloped by four marquise diamonds and adorned with brilliant si...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Platinum
Natural Madagascar Sphene (Titanite) 26.29 Carat – Cushion Cut Rainbow Fire
Located in Peshawar, PK
Bring extraordinary brilliance to your gemstone collection with this Natural Madagascar Sphene (Titanite) weighing 26.29 carats. Expertly precision cut into a striking rectangular fa...
Other
1998 Coral Diamond 18 K Gold Vintage Day-To-Night Ear-Clip Drop Earrings
Located in Philadelphia, PA
Designed as organically shaped surmounts suspending tiered removable articulating drops Centering organic shaped coral cabochons measuring 17.5 x 13.0 mm Connected to middle drop sta...
Coral, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Givenchy Paris High-Gloss Gunmetal Chains and Studs Cuff Bracelet
By Givenchy
Located in Atlanta, GA
Make a bold statement with this exceptional Givenchy Paris bangle bracelet, a rare and striking example of brutalist design. Crafted in high-gloss gunmetal, the important cuff showca...
Brass
Modern 18 K Yellow Gold Filed Curb Mech Chain Necklace
Located in Poitiers, FR
Chain in 18 karat yellow gold, eagle head hallmark. Type of mesh : filed curb mesh chain. Dimensions : Length : 58.5 cm approximately. Width : 2,3 mm approximately. Clasp : spring ri...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Nautical Flags Enamel Charm Bracelet 18k Yellow Gold Maritime Jewelry
Located in Torrance, CA
Finely detailed vintage Nautical charm bracelet crafted in 18 karat yellow gold (circa 1970s). The nautical themed enameled bracelet features 7 enameled nautical flags. Each of th...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
$861Sale Price / item|40% Off
Waved Pear garnet 14k gold ring
Located in Istanbul, TR
Waved Pear garnet 14k gold ring. Garnet gold ring. Garnet vintage style ring. Natural garnet ring. Red gemstone ring. Metal type: Gold Metal stamp: 14k Gold Weight: 2.9 gr- depends ...
Topaz, Garnet, Yellow Gold, White Gold, Rose Gold, 14k Gold, Gold
Floral Pear Amethyst Earrings Studs, silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Lotus Amethyst Drop Earrings. Natural Amethyst Lotus Flower Drop Earrings. Inspired by the graceful bloom of a lotus flower, these elegant earrings combine sculptural gold petals wi...
Amethyst, Gold Plate, Silver
Tahitian Pearl and Diamond Cocktail Ring in 18k White Gold, Size 5.75
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k white gold ring set with a Tahitian pearl and black and white brilliant cut diamonds - ring size US 5.75 - EU 16.25 (51) detailed description: the top of the ring is 1.0 cm wid...
Diamond, Black Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold, White Gold
$240Sale Price / set|20% Off
Round Cut Natural Blue Sapphire Bezel Set Stud Earrings in 14K Solid Yellow Gold
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
These elegant stud earrings feature round cut natural blue sapphires, weighing 0.3 carats total. The sapphires are securely bezel set in 14K yellow gold, giving them a sleek and mode...
Blue Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Picchiotti 18 Karat White Gold, 2.47 Carat Diamond and Black Onyx Tiger Bracelet
By Picchiotti
Located in New York, NY
Designed by master craftsman Giuseppe Picchiotti, this glamorous bracelet is the perfect example of classic, cool and edgy all at once. Swirls of black onyx and pave set diamonds c...
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, White Gold
Nina Zhou Nosa 4.60ctw Sapphire, Aquamarine and Diamond Cluster Earrings
By Nina Zhou
Located in Newport Beach, CA
Like the shifting hues of a deep lagoon kissed by sunlight, these Nosa earrings capture the serene meeting of sapphire and aquamarine. Set in 14K yellow gold, each stud dances with c...
Diamond, Aquamarine, Sapphire, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold
Golden South Sea Pearl Diamond Ribbon Necklace 14k Gold
Located in Honolulu, HI
Item Specifications: Necklace Metal: 14k Yellow Gold Total Weight: 11.9 Grams Diamond Count: 29 brilliant cut Diamond Color: G Diamond Clarity: VS2-SI1 Diamond Carat We...
Diamond, Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Natural Yellow Diamond and White Diamond Floral Stud Earrings in 18K Gold
By HYT
Located in Hong Kong, HK
These beautiful earrings feature a beautiful combination of Natural Yellow and White diamonds, Yellow Diamonds carefully crafted with white diamonds in beautiful petals that form a s...
White Diamond, Yellow Diamond, 18k Gold
14 Karat White Gold Tahitian Pearl Stud Earrings
Located in Baltimore, MD
14 Karat White Gold 13MM Tahitian Pearl Stud Earrings Metal: 14K white gold Weight: 7.59 grams Pearls: 2 gray Tahitian 13mm pearls with high luste...
Pearl, White Gold
Guy Ellia 18 Karat Rose Gold Time Space Square Strap Watch
By Guy Ellia
Located in New York, NY
18 Karat Rose Gold Time Space Square Reference #OR-TSP-2315 Made in Switzerland Manual Wind Case #002 Anthracite engine turned main plate with rose gold han...
18k Gold, Rose Gold
David Morris 18Kt Yellow/Blackened Gold Diamond & Pink Tourmaline Heart Earrings
By David Morris
Located in New York, NY
These 18 karat yellow gold teardrop shaped earrings were designed by David Morris.They feature Pink Tourmaline heart centers with a yellow gold bezel setting...
Diamond, Tourmaline, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bracciale Rigido con ct 4.00 di Diamanti Baguette, Oro 18 Kt
Located in Rome, IT
Bracciale rigido impreziosito da quattro file di diamanti naturali taglio baguette, per una caratura complessiva di 4,00 ct. La perfetta successione delle pietre crea un raffinato e...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$616Sale Price / item|20% Off
1.53Ct Oval Cut Aquamarine and Diamond Pendant in 18K Yellow Gold Fine Jewelry
By VR Jewels
Located in New York, NY
This elegant pendant featuring an 1.53 carat oval cut aquamarine set in 14k yellow gold half bezel. Accented by a round brilliant-cut diamond 0.02 carats in a bezel setting above th...
Aquamarine, Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cellini Exclusive 18KT Yellow Gold 1.07Ct. Diamond Enamel Boy Teddy Bear Charm
By Cellini
Located in New York, NY
Just the cutest....Teddy bear charm made exclusively for Cellini by Ambrosi of Italy. This 18 karat yellow gold teddy bear is fully set with round brilliant pave diamonds. He has bl...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Marina J. Pearl Woven "V" Necklace with Adjustable 14k Clasp
By Marina J.
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Gorgeous piece by Marina J. This necklace features all real cultured White Pearls intricately woven together into a tight lace like design. Woven into a 'V" shape, this piece perfec...
Pearl, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
David Yurman 7mm Sterling Silver, Citrine, & Diamond Classic Cable Bracelet
By David Yurman
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver, citrine, and diamond cuff bracelet. By David Yurman. In sterling silver. In the 'Classic Cable' pattern. Each terminal with a band of pave-set diamonds and ...
Citrine, Diamond, Sterling Silver
Vintage GUCCI Tornavoni 120 Quartz Wrist Watch. Gucci YA120520 Gold tone Bangle
By Gucci
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Beautiful Vintage Gold Tone Gucci Watch. Logo Dial Tornavoni 120 Model YA120520 These will be for one special lady. Condition: New battery installed.
Gold Plate, Stainless Steel