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.
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
$523Sale Price / item|44% Off
Octagon Topaz Ring Silver, Gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Octagon Topaz Ring Silver, Gold. Blue Enamel Geometric Ring. Art Deco Cocktail Ring Metal: 925 silver + 14k gold plating over Weight: 4.5 gr depends from size 1 piece (central stone...
Topaz, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
Ring with brilliant cut diamonds up to 1.35ct 18k gold 4.2 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold ring set with a central brilliant cut diamond up to 0.24ct F/G VS/SI and smaller brilliant cut diamonds up to 1.11 ct - F/G - VS/SI - ring size US 7.25 - EU 17.5(55) ...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Angela Caputi Washed Blue Dangle Resin Geometric Clip Earrings
Located in Atlanta, GA
These very chic Angela Caputi resin clip-on earrings, made in Italy, feature an extra-long dangling shape with geometric elements, faceted beads, and flat disks in a rare washed navy...
$523Sale Price / item|44% Off
Garnet and Colorless Topaz Drop Earrings studs, silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Garnet and Colorless Topaz Drop Earrings studs, silver, gold. Dangle Garnet earrings. Cocktail earrings with Garnets cabochon. Contemporary Garnet and Colorless Topaz Earrings in Sil...
Garnet, Topaz, Gold Plate, 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
$200Sale Price / set|50% Off
Statement Citrine and Blue Topaz Stud Earrings Set in Sterling Silver Settings
Located in New York, NY
These elegant 13.06 carat pear shaped citrine and blue topaz stud earrings are crafted in 925 solid silver. The oval cut citrine gemstones at center measures approximately 9 × 11 mm ...
Citrine, Topaz, Blue Topaz, Silver, Sterling Silver
Custom Watch Bezels, Dials & Diamond Commissions for Rolex, Cartier, Hublot
Located in San Diego, CA
Custom Bezels, Dials & Fine Gemstone Commissions for Watches Rock N Gold Creations specializes in bespoke watch commissions for many of the world's finest timepieces, including ...
Alexandrite, Amethyst, Aquamarine, Carnelian, Citrine, Diamond, White Di...
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
$528Sale Price / item|77% Off
Octagon Garnet Ring Silver, Gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Octagon Garnet Ring Silver, Gold. Black Enamel Geometric Ring. Art Deco Cocktail Ring Metal: 925 silver + 14k gold plating over Weight: 4.5 gr depends from size 1 piece (central sto...
Garnet, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
Set in 18K Gold, carved Turquoise & natural Diamonds Bracelet/Choker Necklace
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very gorgeous and beautiful, modern style, Turquoise Bracelet/ Choker Necklace set in 18K White Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight the carved Turquoise is 29.47 carats. The Turquo...
Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage David Yurman 18K Yellow Gold, Amethyst, & Diamond Albion Cocktail Ring
By David Yurman
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed gold, amethyst, and diamond Albion cocktail ring. By David Yurman. In 18 karat yellow gold. With a central bezel-set square cushion cut amethyst surrounded by a halo...
Amethyst, Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$516Sale Price / item|44% Off
Emerald solitaire ring for men silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Silver, Gold Round Emerald Ring For Men's. Mens Solitaire Emerald Ring. Baguette Cut Emerald Ring. Metal: 925 silver plus 14k gold plating ...
Emerald, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
$2,048Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold 3-Stone Ring Diamond Natural Cabochon Emerald Ring 3.96 CT
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
Make a statement of refined elegance and bold color with this stunning three-stone ring in rich 14K yellow gold. At its heart sits a mesmerizing 3.96-carat natural emerald cut in a s...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA 3.04 carat old mine cut diamond 18k yellow gold engagement ring
Located in Beverly Hills, CA
This beautiful vintage-inspired diamond engagement ring is centered by a GIA-certified old mine brilliant cut diamond weighing 3.04 carats. Graded L color and SI2 clarity, the diamon...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$1,036Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Cabochon Emerald Rope Hoop Drop Earrings – 2.75 Carat
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
Elegant simplicity meets contemporary design in these striking 14K Yellow Gold Cabochon Emerald Rope Hoop Earrings. Rich oval cabochon emeralds weighing approximately 2.75 carats tot...
Emerald, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
$528Sale Price / item|77% Off
Oval Peridot Ring Silver, Gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Oval Cabochon Peridot Ring Silver, Gold. Bold Peridot Cabochon Cocktail Ring, Gold Over Silver. Modern Sculptural Peridot Ring in Gold Over Silver. Metal: 925 silver + 14k gold plat...
Peridot, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
18K Gold Natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Bracelet – 3mm Beads, 17cm
Located in Hong Kong, HK
This delicate 18K yellow gold bracelet features lustrous 3mm natural Sleeping Beauty Turquoise beads. Each tiny bead displays the signature vivid sky-blue color and exceptional clari...
Turquoise, 18k Gold
Earrings with pearl and brilliant cut diamonds up to 2.00ct 18k gold 13.3 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k white gold ear clips set with pearl and brilliant-cut diamond up to 0.2.00ct – F/G – VS/SI Detailed description: The dimensions of the ear clip are 1.7 cm long by 1.2 cm thick ...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. Ice Skate Charm Pendant Sterling Silver Enamel
Located in University Place, WA
A playful vintage Tiffany & Co. pendant crafted in sterling silver, modeled as a detailed miniature ice skate with enamel finish and a finely rendered blade. The little laced boot an...
Sterling Silver, Enamel
Vintage 18K Yellow Gold Twisted Necklace - Solid Gold Chain, 16.93 Inches
Located in Antwerp, BE
For sale is this lovely 18 karat solid yellow gold necklace with a mesmerising twisted pattern. This elegant necklace is hallmarked with a makers mark and a 750 mark. We adore this l...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$280Sale Price|20% Off
14K White Gold Petite Round Solitaire Diamond Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
This ring features a brilliant round-cut diamond held in a classic four-prong setting. The high-polish 14K white gold shank is designed with a slender, "petite" profile that tapers e...
Diamond, White Gold, 14k Gold
Genuine Amethyst and Larimar Yellow 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...
Amethyst, Larimar, Apatite, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Marina J. Pearl Woven Bridal Choker with Rhodium Silver
By Marina J.
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Beautiful Bridal Choker by Marina J. This piece is made entirely of multi sized Pearls all intricately woven together into a tight lace like design. The Pearls display a soft iridesc...
Pearl, Rhodium, Silver
$528Sale Price / item|77% Off
Oval Cabochon Pink Quartz Ring Silver, Gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Oval Cabochon Quartz Ring Silver, Gold. Bold Quartz Cabochon Cocktail Ring, Gold Over Silver. Modern Sculptural Quartz Ring in Gold Over Silver. Metal: 925 silver + 14k gold plating...
Quartz, Gold Plate, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold, Silver
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
14K White Gold Round Cut Diamond Twisted Infinity Band Ring
Located in Antwerp, BE
Elevate your jewelry collection with this exquisite diamond twisted band, a perfect fusion of classic warmth and modern artistry. Crafted in radiant 14K white gold, the ring features...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Ring with garnet 14k gold 9.3 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
14k red gold band ring set with garnet - ring size U.S. 6 - EU. 16.5 (52) detailed description the front of the ring is 1.3 cm wide ring size U.S. 6 - EU. 16.5 (52) weight : 9.3 ...
Garnet, 14k Gold
20.23ct Vivid Neon Bluish Green Natural Paraiba Tourmaline NECKLACE 18K White
Located in New York, NY
Among the world’s most coveted colored gemstones, natural Paraiba tourmaline is celebrated for its extraordinary copper-bearing chemistry—responsible for the legendary neon blue-gree...
Diamond, Paraiba, 18k Gold, White Gold
Ring with sapphire, taper and brilliant cut diamonds up to 0.75ct 18k gold
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold ring set with sapphire and taper and brilliant-cut diamonds up to 0.75 ct - ring size US 7.5 - EU 17.75 (56) Detailed description: The top of the ring is 1.6 cm wid...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
$1,406Sale Price|25% Off
Platinum Emerald & Diamond Three-Stone Ring 0.65 Carat Emerald
Located in New York, NY
Celebrate timeless elegance with this sophisticated platinum three-stone ring, showcasing a vibrant 0.65-carat natural emerald at its center, beautifully accented by 0.25 carats of t...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
$516Sale 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
Teal Blue Australian Parti Sapphire 14k White Gold Diamond Bypass Ring P / 7.5
Located in SYDNEY, AU
A dreamy aqua-blue and teal Australian sapphire ring, featuring a diamond halo to channel set diamond band, crafted in 14k white gold. Valuat...
Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold
Natural Madagascar Sphene (Titanite) 23.45 Carat – Cushion Cut Rainbow Fire
Located in Peshawar, PK
Bring extraordinary brilliance to your gemstone collection with this Natural Madagascar Sphene (Titanite) weighing 23.45 carats. Expertly precision cut into a striking rectangular fa...
Other
Vintage Taxco Mexican Sterling Silver Modernist Hinged Bangle Bracelet
By Taxco
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine vintage Mexican silver bangle bracelet. In sterling silver. With a central dome device flanked on either side by openwork and smaller do...
Sterling Silver
Angela Caputi Coral and Lapis Resin Chandelier Dangle Clip Earrings
Located in Atlanta, GA
These stunning Angela Caputi, made in Italy, acrylic resin clip-on earrings feature an oversized chandelier dangling shape with dimensional stylized pine cones and faceted beads, com...
Gilt Metal
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
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
Bvlgari Serpenti Diamond Emerald 18 Karat Yellow Gold Bangle Bracelet Medium
By Bulgari
Located in Boca Raton, FL
A striking and iconic design from Bvlgari, this Serpenti bangle bracelet is crafted in 18 karat yellow gold and showcases the maison’s legendary serpent motif in a bold and sculptura...
Diamond, Emerald, Onyx, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Oscuro Shark Tooth 14k Gold Diamond Necklace
Located in Miami, FL
Oscuro Shark Tooth Pendant is made of genuine shark tooth fossil with solid 14k gold and natural diamonds. Inspired by the concept of surrealism we combined a seemingly ordinary obje...
Diamond, 14k 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
Necklace and pendant with old mine cut diamond up to 0.60ct 14k gold 1.8 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
14k rose gold anchor necklace with solitaire pendant set with an old mine-cut diamond up to 0.60 ct – J/K - Pique – 45 cm long Detailed description The necklace is 45 cm long and 0...
Diamond, 14k Gold
Vintage 3.05ct Diamond Chunky Three Stone Ring in Yellow Gold
Located in London, England
A beautiful vintage diamond ring set in 18k yellow gold.
The ring is composed of 3 round brilliant-cut diamonds, flush-set across the front in a bold and chunky design. <...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$2,100Sale Price|50% Off
18K Gold 2.64ct Oval Deep Blue Sapphire & 0.20ct Brilliant Diamond Accent Ring
Located in เกาะสมุย, TH
A striking balance of elegance and presence, this handcrafted 18k yellow gold ring centers a 2.64‑carat deep blue oval sapphire—a gemstone prized for its velvety saturation and refin...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 18k Gold
14KY Gold Door Knocker Clip-on Earring Lapis Lazuli & Diamond Circle 0.55 Carat
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
Make a bold yet sophisticated statement with these stunning 14K yellow gold door knocker clip-on lapis lazuli and diamond drop earrings. Designed with rich royal-blue lapis lazuli op...
Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified 2.92 Carat L SI1 Natural Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring
Located in Baltimore, MD
GIA Certified 2.92 Carat L SI1 Natural Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring GIA report number: 5232707080 Diamond: 2.92 carat L SI1 natural diamond Metal: 14 karat white gold & plati...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, Platinum
Earrings with sapphire and brilliant cut diamonds up to 0.20ct 18k gold 3.9 gram
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold stud earrings set with sapphire and brilliant-cut diamonds up to 0.20ct - F/G - VS/SI detailed description: The stud earring is 6.0 mm wide by 1.3 cm high weight :...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Vintage Dior logo script clip on earrings, silver tone metal
Located in NEWARK, GB
A gorgeous pair of vintage Christian Dior logo script design clip on earrings. Large oversized silver tone metal dome or disc shaped earrings with the Dior logo written all over th...
Silver Plate, Stainless Steel
$1,032Sale Price|20% Off
14K Yellow Gold Black Onyx & Turquoise Circle Drop Earrings
By OGI Ltd
Located in New York, NY
Elevate your jewelry collection with these striking 14K Yellow Gold Black Onyx and Turquoise Circle Drop Earrings. Featuring a sophisticated arrangement of polished black onyx and vi...
Onyx, Turquoise, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Hearts on Fire Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring Platinum
Located in Honolulu, HI
Item Specifications: Metal: Platinum Ring Size: 5 Total Weight: 8.1 grams Diamond Specifications: Center Diamond: ~1.73 carats Center Diamond Color: F Center Diamond Clarity:...
Diamond, Platinum
18K White Gold Green Tourmaline Diamond Cocktail Ring
By Claris-A
Located in Monte Carlo, MC
Claris-A offers this 18K white gold tourmaline and diamond ring, designed with a square cushion-shaped green tourmaline framed by pear-shaped diamond clusters that extend gracefully ...
Diamond, Tourmaline, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$269Sale Price|30% Off
14k Solid Yellow Gold, White Enamel Starburst Star Diamond Accent Necklace
Located in Naples, NY
Cute! Modern and elegant style for younger women who love to express themselves with jewelry! Materials: 14K Solid Yellow Gold 0.8mm cable chain necklace 16, 17, 18 inch adjustable...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Enamel
Vintage Tiffany & Co Size 5.25 Sterling Silver and Gold Gatelink Flexible Ring
Located in Rome, IT
Rare Vintage Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver and 18 Karat Gold Gatelink Flexible Hinged Ring Size 5.25. ( 1990’s) The ring is made up of silver elements hinged by 18 karat yellow go...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver, Gold
$516Sale 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
$523Sale Price / item|44% Off
Art Deco Style Citrine and Colorless Topaz Drop Earrings silver, gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Vintage style citrine earrings silver, gold. Dangle citrine earrings. Cocktail earrings with citrine, Silver Gold-Plated Drop Earrings with Citrine and Topaz A striking pair of citr...
Citrine, Topaz, Gold Plate, Silver
Estate Giant Persian Sleeping Beauty Turquoise 18K Gold Diamond Necklace
Located in GOES, NL
An Extraordinary "Tiffany blue" Turquoise Masterpiece A regal giant 19.5 inch long handcrafted necklace with extremely rare Turquoises with the sought after "Persian Turquoise color...
Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Contemporary 1.16ct Diamond Bracelet in Yellow Gold
Located in London, England
A stunning vintage contemporary diamond line bracelet set in 18k yellow gold.
The bracelet features a line of round brilliant cut diamonds each set in an elegant 18k yello...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
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
Set in 18K Gold, Zambian Emerald, Ceylon Pink Sapphires & Diamonds Cocktail Ring
By JEWEL HUB
Located in Hong Kong, HK
A very stunning and gorgeous, modern style, Emerald & Pink Sapphires Cocktail Ring set in 18K Gold & natural Diamonds. The weight of the Emerald is 10.82 carats. The Emerald is comp...
Diamond, Emerald, Pink Sapphire, 18k Gold
26795 Tiffany & Co Peretti 18k Yellow Gold 0.30ct Diamond By The Yard Necklace
Located in Chicago, IL
18k yellow gold necklace weighs 2 grams 3 round diamonds, total weight 0.30ct Diamonds are F color VS1 clarity Bezel measures 3.8mm wide Necklace is 16.5" long Stamped "Tiffany & Co. 750 (c) Peretti" Current retail price $3,700 + TAX Comes with Tiffany jewelry box...
Diamond, 18k Gold