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 Tiffany & Co. Mark Coupe Automatic Day Date Moonphase Movement
Located in University Place, WA
A vintage Tiffany & Co. Mark Coupe dial and automatic movement featuring a multi complication configuration including day, date, and moonphase. The silver dial is detailed with ...
Scintillating and Elegant Vintage Ladies Cocktail Watch with Diamonds
By Piaget
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This wonderful vintage ladies 18K yellow gold Piaget wrist watch with Pave Diamond dial and Marquise Diamond Bezel is absolutely the epitome of elegance. It's original Piaget dial is pave set with glittering single cut diamonds and bears the word Piaget at the 12 o'clock position. It is surrounded by twenty-six marquise cut diamonds in it's original Piaget white gold bezel. Total approximate diamond weight is 2.75ct of overall G/H color and VS2clarity. The head measures 1 inch by 1 1/8 inches to the outside of the diamond bezel. The integral Piaget bark...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bulgari Diagono Automatic Stainless Steel Case and Bracelet Wrist Watch
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
Classic Bulgari Diagono Automatic Stainless Steel case and bracelet ladies wristwatch. The name Diagono is inspired by the Greek agon, or competition. ...
Steel, Stainless Steel
Genuine Rolex 6517 Oyster Perpetual Watch. Ladies ROLEX Automatic WG Bezel.
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Stainless Steel Rolex Ladies Automatic Movement Wristwatch. Circa 1969. 25mm Rolex Automatic Movement Ref. 6517. White Gold Fluted Bezel Just went through a complete overhaul. Ful...
Diamond, Stainless Steel
Marcel Boucher Mod Lucite Chrome Wrist Watch ca 1970
Located in University City, MO
Marcel Boucher Mod lucite chrome women's wrist watch ca 1970 The futuristic design combines a circular lucite disc that frames the black watch dial The...
Stainless Steel
Vintage Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref 1501 34mm Watch
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Vintage 1979 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date reference 1501 automatic watch in stainless steel featuring a silver-tone dial with applied gold-tone baton hour markers, engine-turned bezel...
Stainless Steel
Pristine Vintage Ladies White Gold Piaget Watch Marquise Diamond & Emerald Bezel
By Piaget
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This distinctive and beautiful 18K white gold vintage ladies Piaget cocktail watch, offered by the formidable watchmaker in the early 1980's, is perfect in every respect. A round white bark finish dial with black baton hour markers is surrounded by a bezel of twelve alternating marquise cut diamonds and fine quality Colombian emeralds. The words Piaget and Swiss are visible on the dial. Total approximate diamond weight is 1.15ct of overall H color and VS1 clarity. Emeralds are vibrant and have a total weight of approximately 1.00ct. The integral, Piaget bark...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Cartier Panthère Mini Diamonds 18 Karat Yellow Gold Watch
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Maker: Cartier Model: Panthère Mini Year: 1990s Material: 18k Yellow Gold and Diamonds Dial: White Roman Case Measurement: 17mm Movement: Quartz Condition: Very Good Weight: 45 Gram...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Vintage Bulova “Dior 23” Sterling Silver Modernist Wristwatch Bracelet
Located in New York, NY
A striking example of mid-century modernist design, this vintage Bulova “Dior 23” wristwatch is crafted entirely in sterling silver and features an elegant...
Sterling Silver
Ladies Vintage White Gold Piaget Watch with Turquoise Dial & Diamond Bezel
By Piaget
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This late 20th Century 18K white gold ladies Piaget dress wrist watch with integral 18K Piaget bark finish band, is in near pristine vintage condition. The...
Diamond, Turquoise, 18k Gold, White Gold
18K Gold Cartier La Dona Sport Wrist Watch with Cartier Leather Strap
By Cartier
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This sporty trapezoidal Cartier La Dona model 18K yellow gold wrist watch is sold with the original burgundy color Cartier alligator grain leather band. The Cariter 18K yellow gold c...
18k Gold
Elgin Mid-Century Modern 14k White Gold & Diamond Ladies Watch
By Elgin
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine Mid-Century Modern Elgin lady's watch. In 14 karat white gold. Prong-set with diamonds in a halo surrounding the dial and to the lugs on each end. With a block letter ELGIN and index hour markers to the face. Set with a Speidel gold-plated and black cord watch...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Rolex Stainless Steel Wristwatch with Original Black Dial, circa 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual Air King / Reference 1500 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 3...
Stainless Steel
Rare Vintage Black Opal Dial Ladies Piaget Watch w/3.85ct Diamond Bezel, 1970s
By Piaget
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This expertly crafted vintage Swiss ladies Piaget dress watch features a vibrant natural, oval shaped black "Peacock Opal" dial. This rare dial possesses every quality that is prized...
Diamond, Opal, Black Opal, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
1970's Men's Gold Piaget Dress Watch w/Cushion Shaped Head & Integral Woven Band
By Piaget
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This handsome, vintage, men's 18K yellow gold Piaget wrist watch makes an elegant statement. The large cushion shaped head measures 1 1/4" x 1 1/8" and houses a recently serviced ori...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Rolex Oyster Stainless Steel with Custom Made T...... Blue Dial
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster / Reference 6426 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 41mm X Diameter 35mm ...
Stainless Steel
Rare DeLaneau High-Jewelry Diamond Tonneau Watch in 18k
By Delaneau
Located in Wailea, HI
Rare DeLaneau High-Jewelry Diamond Tonneau Watch – 1.60 CTW Round Brilliant Diamonds Discover the pinnacle of Swiss "horlogerie bijouterie" with this magnificent DeLaneau diamond tim...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Cartier Pasha 18K Yellow Gold 38mm Ref. 1989 Leather Accents Watch
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
A striking Cartier Pasha watch in solid 18K yellow gold, reference 1989, showcasing one of Cartier’s most recognizable and enduring sport-luxury designs. The substantial 38mm round c...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Bvlgari BB 19 2T Quartz Round Dial Tubogas Watch
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
A signature Bvlgari Tubogas wristwatch, reference BB 19 2T, crafted in rich 18K yellow gold and designed with the house’s unmistakable flexible Tubogas bracelet. The compact 19mm rou...
Gold, 18k Gold
Seiko Flightmaster Pilot Chronograph Watch in Stainless Steel
Located in Bloomington, MN
Seiko Flightmaster Pilot Chronograph Watch in Stainless Steel This Seiko Flightmaster pilot’s watch features the well-known SNA411P1 configuration, crafted in stainless steel with a...
Stainless Steel
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
Jaeger LeCoultre Reverso Duetto Diamond 18K Rose Gold Watch
Located in Miami, FL
Elegant and timeless, this Jaeger-LeCoultre Reverso Duetto is crafted in luxurious 18K rose gold and features the iconic reversible case design. This sophisticated timepiece offers t...
Diamond, Rose Gold
Rolex Stainless Steel Perpetual Datejust with Custom Finished Green Dial 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual Datejust / Reference 1601 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 43...
White Gold, Stainless Steel
18K Yellow Gold Bulgari Serpenti Tubogas Ladies Watch
By Bulgari
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This magnificent 18k yellow gold Bulgari Serpenti watch is a now retired offering from the venerated house. A round head, with a bezel stamped BVLGARI surrounds a luxurious matte fin...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date with Exceptional Charcoal Dial
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oyster Perpetual Date / Reference METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960/70 DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length "Lug Tip t...
Stainless Steel
Ladies Piaget Watch with Lapis Dial, Sapphires and Diamonds for a Small Wrist
By Piaget
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This tasteful and distinctive vintage ladies 18K yellow gold, modern round brilliant cut diamond and sapphire cocktail watch with integral 18K gold Piaget bark...
Diamond, Lapis Lazuli, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 18k Gold
Rare Vacheron Constantin 49002 Les Historiques Chronograph ca' 1990's 18k
Located in Saint Petersburg, FL
A rare Vacheron Constantin Les Historiques Chronograph ca' 1990 in 18k gold. Reference #49002/000J-3. Movement # 807058, beautiful enamel dial. Less than 700 made, this particular ex...
18k Gold
Two-Tone 36mm DateJust Rolex Jubilee Band
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
This timepiece is in good pre owned condition. 16013 Two-Tone 36mm DateJust Rolex 18k/Stainless Steel Jubilee Band. Movement Automatic. Dial: Aftermarket Champagne Dial
Diamond
Ladies Rolex 6917 Datejust 26mm Stainless Steel Watch
By Rolex
Located in Miami, FL
Ladies Rolex 6917 Datejust 26mm Stainless Steel After Market Diamond Bezel & Aftermarket Mother of Pearl Diamond Dial. Jubilee Band
Diamond
Rolex Cellini 18K White Gold With Rare Blue Vignette Dial 1974
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Rolex Cellini 18k White Gold Rare Blue Vignette Dial, Manual Wind, Made in Switzerland c.1974 Model: Cellini Year: c. 1974 Material: 18K White Gold Dial: Rare Blue Vignette ...
18k Gold, White Gold
Cartier 32mm Pasha 18k White Gold Diamond Markers Ladies Wristwatch
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
Cartier Pasha watch crafted in 18K white gold, showcasing the collection’s instantly recognizable round case measuring 32mm in diameter. The dial is enhanced with brilliant diamond h...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Franck Muller 6850 SC DP Diamond Dial Watch Blue Strap Automatic Platinum Rotor
Located in Carmel By The Sea, CA
This item is offered on consignment on behalf of a client; all serious and reasonable offers are presented for consideration, and we work diligently to achieve a mutually agreeable o...
White Gold
Rolex Steel Oysterdate with Rare Factory Original Silvered Dial and Gilt Markers
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 3...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Air-King with Custom Orange Dial circa 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Air King / Reference 5500 / 1002 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 40mm "Lug Ti...
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Oysterdate with Custom Made "Mickey" Dial circa 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length "Lug Tip to Lug T...
Stainless Steel
Bvlgari 30mm Round Dial Tubogas Watch
By Bulgari
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Bvlgari watch in 18K yellow gold, designed with a classic round dial measuring 30mm. Its balanced proportions create a versatile unisex l...
Gold, 18k Gold
Cartier Santos Demoiselle 2698 Two-Tone Steel & 18K Gold Ladies Bracelet Watch
By Cartier
Located in Miami, FL
Cartier Santos Demoiselle reference 2698 ladies quartz watch in two-tone stainless steel and 18K yellow gold, featuring a square 20mm case with an off-white dial, black Roman numeral...
Stainless Steel
Vintage Rare Audemars Piguet Dress 18 Karat Yellow Gold Watch
Located in New York, NY
Maker: Audemars Piguet Model: Oval Dress Watch Year: 1970s Material: 18k Yellow Gold Dial: Gold Case Measurement: 22mm x 26mm Movement: Manual Wind Condition: Very Good Weight: 42 G...
18k Gold
Rare Vintage Patek Philippe Model 4817/31 18 Karat Yellow Gold Sapphires Diamond
Located in New York, NY
Maker: Patek Philippe Model: La Flamme Haute Joaillerie 4817/31 Year: 1990s Material: 18k Yellow Gold, Sapphires, Diamonds Dial: Pavé Diamond and Sapphires and Diamond Baguette Beze...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
OMEGA Speedmaster Apollo 3560.50
By Omega
Located in istanbul, TR
Seller Notes “very good condition minimal straches of use” Bezel Color Black Movement Mechanical (Manual) Number of Jewels 26 Jewels Indices Stick Indexes Band/Strap Bracelet Vint...
Stainless Steel
Vintage 1986 Rolex DayDate President Brown Vignette Box Papers 18038 Unpolished
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Vintage 1986 Rolex Day Date President with Rare Brown Burst Dial Box Papers Maker: Rolex Model: 18038 Day Date Year: 1986 Material: 18K Yellow Gold, Brilliant cut and Baguette cut ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Chopard 18K Yellow Gold Diamond Grid Ref 2044 Manual Wind Onyx Ladies Watch
By Chopard
Located in New York, NY
A rare and distinctive Chopard Gabel ladies wristwatch crafted in 18K yellow gold, reference 2044, showcasing an unmistakable geometric design rooted in sophisticated vintage style. ...
Diamond, Onyx, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Cartier Roadster GMT XL 42mm - Vintage Men's Automatic Watch
By Cartier
Located in Antwerp, BE
For sale is a very recognisable and stunningly eccentric timepiece: a Cartier Roadster GMT XL with reference number 2722. It dates back to the mid 2000s, featuring an intriguingly oversize tonneau shaped stainless steel case measuring 42mm wide and 47mm high including the lugs. The silver watch face...
Stainless Steel
Dazzling Ladies Late 1970's Piaget Watch in 18K Gold w/Oval Diamond Dial & Bezel
By Piaget
Located in Palm Beach, FL
This deftly crafted vintage ladies Swiss Piaget dress watch is both scintillating and elegant. The large oval dial is set with pave single cut diamonds, and the bezel is set with mod...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Tiffany & Co. 1837 Padlock Watch in Stainless Steel with Stretch Bracelet
Located in University Place, WA
An iconic Tiffany & Co. design, this padlock watch is crafted in polished stainless steel and suspended from a flexible stretch bracelet. The signature 1837 padlock motif serves as b...
Steel, Stainless Steel
Piaget Polo 18 Karat Yellow Gold Diamond Bracelet Watch
By Piaget
Located in New York, NY
An iconic expression of Piaget’s design legacy, this Piaget Polo watch is crafted in rich 18K yellow gold and embodies the bold, sculptural aesthetic that defines the collection. Wit...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rolex Stainless Steel Oysterdate with Custom Made "Mickey" Dial circa 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length "Lug Tip to Lug T...
Stainless Steel
Cartier 18K White Gold Tank Divan Diamond Ladies Watch
By Cartier
Located in New York, NY
An exceptionally refined Cartier Tank wristwatch, reference 2786, showcasing the maison’s iconic rectangular design reimagined with bold evening elegance. Crafted in luxurious 18K wh...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Rolex Stainless Steel Oysterdate with Custom Made "Mickey" Dial circa 1960's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Oysterdate / Reference 6694 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1960's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length "Lug Tip to Lug T...
Stainless Steel
Genuine 18k Rolex Watch. ROLEX Precision 2642 Mechanical Windup. Ladies Rolex
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
18k White Gold Case Rolex Precision Ladies Watch with attached Milanese Bracelet (Stainless Steel). Rolex Windup 1400 Caliber Movement Ref. 2642 . Circa 1970 Case Is 18k White Gol...
18k Gold, Stainless Steel
Vintage Audemars Piguet 18 Karat Yellow Gold 33mm Diamond Integrated Woven
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Audemars Piguet Automatic 18k Yellow Gold 33mm Black Dial Diamond Markers Integrated Woven Gold Bracelet Automatic Movement Made in Switzerland 92 grams Fits up to a 7.5 in...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Genuine Cartier Diamond Watch. Must de Cartier Vendome Round Burgundy Dial
By Cartier
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Genuine Cartier Vendome Watch. RARE Diamond set bezel ref. 114755 Vintage Must de Cartier Vendome Rare Burgundy Bordeaux dial Sapphire Cabochon Crown. Diamond Set bezel. Condit...
Diamond, Vermeil, Sterling Silver
Van Cleef and Arpels 43604 watch. La Collection 18k SS Round 25mm Watch
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Genuine Van Cleef & Arpels Watch La Collection Round Ref 43604 18k Yellow Gold with Stainless Steel Case Condition: Shows little wear. New Battery installed Details: 25mm roun...
18k Gold, Stainless Steel
ROLEX Watch. Rolex ref. 6444 Rare Black Dial 1950s Mens Rolex watch.
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Vintage Rolex Mens Watch Stainless Steel Case ref.6444 Windup Movement. Runs well. Circa 1958 New Leather Band. Beautiful Watch. 31 mm round Case
Stainless Steel
ROLEX Watch. Rolex ref. 6085 1950s Automatic Stainless Steel Mens Rolex watch.
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Vintage Rolex Mens Watch Stainless Steel Case ref.6085 Automatic Movement. Runs well. Circa 1952 Leather Band. Beautiful Watch. 34mm round Case Condition: Excellent condition fo...
Stainless Steel
Genuine Diamond Sapphire Rolex Watch. Ladies 18k Rolex 2189 Manual Watch.
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Genuine Diamond And Sapphire Rolex Watch. 18k White Gold Case and Stainless Steel Milanese Bracelet 1400 Caliber Rolex Movement Ref. 2189. Circa ...
Diamond, Stainless Steel
Roger Dubuis Excalibur Limited Edition EX45 77 9 9.71R
By Roger Dubuis
Located in istanbul, TR
Seller Notes “like new” Country of Origin Switzerland Bezel Color Silver Closure Deployant Number of Jewels 29 Jewels Indices Roman Numerals Band/Strap Two-Piece Strap Case Color S...
Stainless Steel
Vintage 1974 Rolex Cellini Model 4127 18 Karat Yellow Gold Clous de Paris Wood
By Rolex
Located in New York, NY
Maker: Rolex Model: Cellini 4127 Year: 1974 Material: 18 Karat Yellow Gold / Clous de Paris Hobnail Bezel Dial: Rosewood Case Measurement: 25mm x 34mm Movement: Manual Wind Condition...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
ROLEX Watch. Rolex ref. 6426 Rare Subseconds Dial 1960s Mens Rolex watch.
By Rolex
Located in Port Charlotte, FL
Vintage Rolex Mens Watch Stainless Steel Case ref.6426 / 6427 Windup Movement. Runs well. Circa 1960 New Leather Band. Beautiful Watch. 34 mm round Case
Stainless Steel
Rolex Stainless Steel Datejust with Factory Original Charcoal Dial circa, 1970's
By Rolex
Located in Long Beach, CA
FACTORY / HOUSE: Rolex Watch Company STYLE / REFERENCE: Datejust / Reference 1601 METAL / MATERIAL: Stainless Steel CIRCA / YEAR: 1970's DIMENSIONS / SIZE: Length 43mm X Diameter 36m...
Stainless Steel