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.
Van Cleef & Arpels 18K White Gold Diamond Cluster "Fleurette" Station Necklace
Located in New York, NY
Diamond Cluster "Fleurette" Station Necklace by Van Cleef & Arpels. "Fleurette" 5-station diamond cluster chain necklace, with colorless round ...
Diamond, White Gold
Modern 18k White Gold Oval & Pear Sapphire with Diamond Double Halo Drop Pendant
Located in Jaipur, IN
Natural Blue Sapphire and Diamond Double Halo Drop Pendant in 18K White Gold A graceful display of timeless elegance, this Natural Blue Sapphire and Diamond Double Halo Drop Pendant ...
Diamond, Sapphire, White Gold
Naimah, Evil Eye Whistle Pendant Necklace, Blue Enamel
By Naimah
Located in Istanbul, 34
Introducing our exquisite Evil Eye Whistle Pendant Necklace, a stunning combination of elegance, functionality, and spiritual significance. This gold vermeil pendant is thoughtfully ...
Zircon, Gold, 18k Gold, Vermeil, Sterling Silver, Enamel
Angara Natural Round Blue Sapphire Solitaire Pendant with Diamond 14K Solid Gold
By ANGARA INC.
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This four-prong set sapphire pendant displays the perfect blend of style and beauty. A lustrous diamond on top of the blue gemstone enhances its charm. This classic solitaire sapphir...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold
18K White Gold Abstract Pendant Necklace with 0.57 Carat Tapered Diamonds
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Sleek and sculptural, this 18K white gold necklace features an abstract openwork pendant set with 0.57 carats of tapered diamonds. The diamonds are thoughtfully arranged in a freefor...
Diamond, White Gold
1.12Ct SI Clarity HI Color Diamond Dainty Floral Necklace 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
This 1.12Ct SI Clarity HI Color Diamond 18 Karat White Gold Dainty Floral Necklace features five pear cut diamonds set together pointing inwards making a tiny flower pendant set in a...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$4,999Sale Price|32% Off
Mikimoto South Sea Pearl & Natural Diamond 18-Karat Lariat Necklace In Stock
By Mikimoto
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Mikimoto 18k White Gold Black South Sea Pearl & Natural Diamond Lariat Necklace This is a very special Mikimoto Black South Sea Pearl and Diamond Drop Necklace. We have been buy...
Diamond, South Sea Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
15.43 Carat Blue Sapphire 7.4 Carat Diamond Necklace 14 Karat White Gold Jewelry
Located in Deira, Dubai
Details Item Code :- SEN-52819(14k) Gross Wt. :- 15.96 gm 14k White Gold Wt. :- 11.39 gm Natural Diamond Wt. :- 7.43 Ct. ( AVERAGE DIAMOND CLARITY SI1-SI2 & COLOR H-I ) Blue Sapphir...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, White Gold, 14k Gold
Modern 18k White Gold Oval Sapphire and Diamond Halo Teardrop Pendant
Located in Jaipur, IN
Natural Blue Sapphire Halo Pendant in 18K White Gold A timeless display of classic elegance, this Natural Blue Sapphire Halo Pendant is masterfully crafted in cool, lustrous 18K whit...
Diamond, Sapphire, White Gold
Saphire Brilliant Pendant Platinum purpur violet incredible luminous Color
Located in Viena, Viena
again a special shade for a sapphire pendant... in the unbelievable colour bright purple violet, an oval cut fine sapphire approx. 1.0 ct in the size 7 x 5 mm, AAA+, great brilliance...
Diamond, Sapphire, Platinum
Pink Blue Peacock Tahitian Pearl Diamond Pendant on Box Chain 18k Yellow Gold
Located in Honolulu, HI
Item Specifications: Necklace Metal: 18k Yellow Gold Total Weight: 7.4 Grams Chain Length: adjustable 18"or 20" Chain Type: box chain Pendant Diameter: ~1.20" x 0.45" Stamped: "750" "18K" Pearl: Pink and Blue Peacock Tahitian...
Diamond, Pearl, Black Pearl, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Carved Rock Crystal Necklace with Diamond Clasp
Located in London, GB
A carved rock crystal bead necklace, the carved rock crystal beads measuring approximately 13-14mm, with an 18ct white gold pavé set diamond ball clasp, length approximately 33 inches.
Diamond, Rock Crystal, 18k Gold, White Gold
14 Karat Yellow Gold Garnet and Freshwater Pearl Y Necklace
Located in North Miami, FL
Delicate and elegant, this 14 karat yellow gold Y-necklace features a graceful combination of rich garnets and luminous freshwater pearls. The design centers on an openwork floral mo...
Garnet, Freshwater Pearl, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Lovely Aquamarine Pendant w Earth Mined Diamonds in Solid 14k Gold Oval 6x4mm
Located in Columbus, OH
This beautiful pendant features a 0.4 carat oval aquamarine gemstone with a natural earth mined diamond set in solid 14K gold. This pendant can be a lovely March birthstone gift for ...
Aquamarine, Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold
Angara Natural Marquise Emerald Olive Branch Pendant in 14K Yellow Gold
By ANGARA INC.
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A classic symbol of peace and victory, this olive branch pendant is ethereal. It features prong-set marquise emeralds that draw the eye with their beautiful lush green hue. Additiona...
Emerald, Yellow Gold
Mod Lucite and Chrome Pendant
Located in New York, NY
Unusual Mod Lucite and Chrome Pendant from the 1960's. A series of super long chains suspend a chrome ball with and floating lucite sphere wi...
Rhodium, Silver Plate
Poiray Necklace "Tresse" Yellow Gold White Gold 18 Karat
By Poiray
Located in Vannes, FR
Discover the magnificent Poiray "Tresse" necklace in yellow and white gold, an exceptional piece of jewellery that embodies elegance and refinement. With its two delicately intertwin...
18k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
Natural 0.7 Carat SI/H Diamond Circle Vine Chain Necklace 14 Karat Yellow Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
This Natural 0.7 Carat SI/H Diamond 14 Karat Yellow Gold Circle Vine Chain Necklace features overlapping circle made with gold wire, studded with dainty diamond flower on top of it a...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14k Yellow Gold Choker 1.45 Ct SI/H Pear Cut Diamond Necklace Double Layer
Located in Deira, Dubai
Celebrate this festive season with a touch of pure brilliance. Our 14K gold diamond choker necklace is more than jewelry it’s a statement of timeless elegance. Handcrafted in solid 1...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Certified AAAA Grade Japan Akoya Pearl Mirror Like Circle Diamond Pendant
Located in Kowloon, HK
A simple and modern diamond pendant set with a natural Japanese Akoya delicately arranged in just the right place. The brilliant pearl is set in 18k gold and diamonds, offering a cla...
Diamond, Pearl, 18k Gold
18K Yellow Gold Chakra Necklace by Syna Jewels with Mother of Pearl Discs
By Syna Jewels
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
This 18K yellow gold Chakra necklace by Syna Jewels is a harmonious blend of elegance and spiritual symbolism. Featuring bezel-set 7mm mother-of-pearl discs that represent balance an...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Pink Topaz Necklace 7.9 Carats 18K Yellow Gold Plated Sterling Silver
Located in Bonita Springs, FL
It comes with the Gemological Appraisal by GIA GG/AJP All gemstones are natural 16 Pink Topazes = 7.90 Carats Metal: 18K Yellow Gold Plated Sterling Silver Length: 18 Inches
Topaz, Gold Plate, Yellow Gold, Sterling Silver
Real 6.18 Carat SI/H Pear Marquise Diamond Choker Necklace 14 Karat White Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
Celebrate this festive season with a touch of pure brilliance. Our 14K gold diamond choker necklace is more than jewelry — it’s a statement of timeless elegance. Handcrafted in soli...
Diamond, Gold, White Gold, 14k Gold
$890Sale Price / item|20% Off
18k Gold Heart Cross Diamond Necklace Valentine Jewelry
By Oshi Jewels
Located in Bangkok, TH
Tiny Heart Cross Necklace showcasing 28 Brilliant round diamonds pave set by master setter at studio. Available in three colors of gold: White Gol...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, White Gold, Rose Gold, 18k Gold
$18,232Sale Price / item|20% Off
7.13 Carat Diamond Cascade Tennis Necklace with Graduated Pear Brilliance
Located in Deira, AE
Radiating timeless sophistication, this exquisite diamond necklace is handcrafted in luxurious 18K white gold and designed to create a graceful stream of brilliance around the neckli...
Diamond, Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
14K Yellow Gold Textured Oval Link Necklace
Located in Bradenton, FL
Mid-20th Century 14K Yellow Gold Oval Link Necklace. Necklace features a continuous series of textured oval links, each intricately finished to catch and reflect light with a subtle ...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Tsavorite Brilliant Pendant 0.60 ct 0.30 ct a Newcomer Gem with Certificate
Located in Viena, Viena
Pendant with a newcomer among the gemstones, the green garnet (Tsavorith) or also called green grossular of 0.60 ct, intense forest green in bright color quality, with hardly any nat...
Diamond, Tsavorite, Platinum
Modern 18 Karat Yellow Gold Marine Mesh Chain
Located in Poitiers, FR
Chain in 18 karat yellow gold, eagle head hallmark. Type of mesh : filed marine mesh. Dimensions : Length : 50,5 cm approximately. Width : 2.8 mm approximately. Clasp : lobster clasp...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
32.29 ct 3-Prong Diamond Tennis Necklace
By Hakimi's Gem
Located in Chicago, IL
This exquisite tennis necklace features a stunning array of 101 round-cut white diamonds, totaling 32.29 carats. Each diamond is F/G in color and VS2/SI1 in clarity, providing except...
Diamond, Platinum
Fancy Light Purplish Pink Diamond Halo Platinum Vintage Necklace
Located in Montreal, QC
Simply Beautiful! Vintage Diamond Platinum Drop Pendant Necklace. Ssecurely Hand set with 0.04 Carat Fancy Light Purplish Pink Round Diamond and Diamond 0.15tcw. Hand crafted Platinu...
Pink Diamond, Platinum
Signed Peter Von Post Swedish Silver Flower (Twinflower) Pendant Necklace
By Peter Von Post
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine Scandinavian Modernist pendant necklace. In Swedish sterling silver. By Peter Van Post. In the form of a flower (possibly a Swedish twinflower or orchid) together with a si...
Silver
GIA 25.25 Cts D VS1 Round Brilliant Graduating Diamonds Tennis Necklace 18K Gold
Located in New Delhi, Delhi
This exceptional tennis necklace features GIA Certified Round Brilliant Cut diamonds totaling 25.25 carats, graded D color and VS1 clarity, selected for their remarkable brilliance a...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
$2,070Sale Price / item|20% Off
18K White Gold 0.39ct Natural Diamond Cluster Necklace, Milestone Birthday Gifts
Located in Deira, AE
Marquise and round diamonds are arranged into a single circular cluster, creating an illusion of one larger stone at the center of this 18K white gold necklace. Diamond weight totals...
Diamond, Gold, White Gold, 18k Gold
$695Sale Price|20% Off
Vintage Pierre Cardin Runway Frosted Lucite Statement Necklace
Located in McKinney, TX
- Rare & important - 27" length - 3.5" x 1.5" drop - Silver tone - Frosted lucite beads - Turquoise colored accent beads - By Pierre Cardin, featuring Pierre Cardin logo clasp - Made...
$11,536Sale Price|39% Off
Aquamarine Brilliant Clip Pendant 24.5 0.83 ct this Color is rare and demanded
Located in Viena, Viena
Pendant with very fine aquamarine in a rectangle cut of 24.50 ct, AAA+, 22 x 15.5 mm, eye-clean (in the picture you can mistakenly see reflections that look like inclusions), lavishly decorated with full-cut brilliant-cut diamonds and diamond baguettes totaling approx. 0.83 ct TW (fine white G) / VS-SI (very small - small inclusions), in rhodium-plated settings, translucent made of 750 yellow gold, with large clip loop (4.8 x 5.5 mm), approx. 44x 27.5 x 10.5 mm, weighs approx. 15.9 grams, large aquamarines with an intense color are becoming increasingly rare and rising in price! About aquamarine: brings the magic of the oceans into life..., lucky stone...
Diamond, Aquamarine, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$957Sale Price / item|44% Off
Flower Pendant with sapphire in 14k gold
Located in Istanbul, TR
Flower Pendant with sapphire in 14k gold. Blue sapphire cabochon pendant. Round sapphire pendant. Yellow and blue sapphire pendant. 14k solid gold Weight: 2.5 g. Size: 20 x 20 mm. ...
Diamond, Sapphire, 14k Gold, Gold
Vintage 14K Gold Italian Fob with Blue Paste Stone
Located in Venice, CA
This vintage 14k gold fob features a beautifully faceted, saturated blue paste stone. The top of the fob consists of a central flower that cascades into t...
Gold, 14k Gold
GIA Certified 1.50 Carats F VVS1 Princess Diamond Necklace in 18K Yellow Gold
Located in New Delhi, Delhi
This elegant necklace features a GIA Certified 1.50 carat Princess Shape diamond, graded F color and VVS1 clarity, selected for its exceptional brilliance and crisp geometric beauty....
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$479Sale Price|20% Off
14K Gold Chai Pendant Necklace with 0.20ct Natural Diamonds, Unisex
Located in New York, NY
14K Chai Hebrew Natural Diamond Pendant is a stunning and meaningful piece of jewelry that artfully combines cultural significance with timeless elegance. ...
GIA Certified 3.50 Carats G VS2 Pear Diamond Necklace in 18K White Gold 16inches
Located in New Delhi, Delhi
This elegant necklace features a GIA Certified 3.50 carat Pear Shape diamond, graded G color and VS2 clarity, selected for its exceptional brilliance and graceful silhouette. The pea...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Vintage Gold Tone Link Necklace with Enamel Locket Circa 1910s
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Gold Tone Link Necklace with French Blue Enamel Locket Circa 1900s. Vintage Gold Tone Link Necklace with Enamel Locket Circa 1910s. The locket is 1.25" L x .1" W. The ch...
Mixed Metal
GIA Certified 7 Carats F/VS1 Round Brilliant Diamonds 5-Stone Necklace 18K Gold
Located in New Delhi, Delhi
This elegant necklace features GIA Certified Round Brilliant Cut diamonds totaling 7.00 carats, graded F color and VS1 clarity, selected for their exceptional brilliance and symmetry...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified 6.00 Carats F/VS1 Multi-Shape Diamonds Necklace in 18K White Gold
Located in New Delhi, Delhi
This elegant necklace features GIA Certified diamonds totaling 6.00 carats, each showcasing a distinct and beautifully cut shape, including Round, Emerald, Pear, Marquise, Princess, ...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
NANIS 18k Ivy short choker necklace 18k gold boules and diamonds
By Nanis
Located in Amsterdam, NL
This is what a pearl necklace looks like when it’s designed by Laura Bicego of Nanis. A creation of 18-karat gold ‘Nanis Boules’, each one individually hand-engraved by Italian maste...
Diamond, White Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
$9,193Sale Price|20% Off
Natural 3.58 Carat SI/H Pear Round Diamond Choker Necklace 18 Karat White Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
Celebrate this festive season with a touch of pure brilliance. Our 18K gold diamond choker necklace is more than jewelry — it’s a statement of timeless elegance. Handcrafted in soli...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$24,000Sale Price|20% Off
10 Carat Diamond Tennis Riviera Necklace
Located in Chicago, IL
The necklace weighs 10 carat, with 3 prongs setting. The stones are round cut, for 10 carat total weight, grades H-I in color and VS1-SI1 in clarity.
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
GIA Certified 3.00 Ct F/VS1 Heart & Round Toi Et Moi Diamonds Necklace 18K Gold
Located in New Delhi, Delhi
This elegant necklace features two GIA Certified diamonds totaling 3.00 carats, composed of a 1.50 carat Heart Shape diamond paired with a 1.50 carat Round Brilliant Cut diamond, gra...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Engraved Lalique Yellow Base Metal Hallmarked Frame Hanging 2 Inch Pendant Charm
By Lalique
Located in Santa Monica, CA
Engraved Lalique Yellow Base Metal Pendant Charm Hallmarked Frame Hanging 2 Inch 1.5 Inch Wide 18K gold cover on base metal 12.7 gram Signed In good co...
Base Metal
14K Yellow Gold 0.75mm Classic Box Chain Necklace. Unisex Chain - Size 22 Inches
Located in New York, NY
Introducing an exquisite masterpiece crafted with precision and elegance - a Solid 14K Yellow Gold 0.75mm Classic Box Chain Necklace. This unisex chain, meticulously designed in 14K ...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
18K White Gold Emerald and Diamond Jewelry Suite, 20.56ct Emeralds
Located in LA, CA
Item # 8235 18K White Gold Emerald and Diamond Jewelry Suite Featuring 20.56 Carats of Emeralds and 4.54 Carats of Diamonds An elegant and finely coordinated jewelry suite comprisi...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, White Gold
$773Sale Price / item|20% Off
18k Gold Winged Heart Diamond Necklace Flying Heart Valentine Jewelry
By Oshi Jewels
Located in Bangkok, TH
Valentine Jewelry Winged Heart Diamond Necklace is made of 18k solid gold. Available in three colors of gold: Rose Gold / White Gold / Yellow Gold. Natural genuine round cut diamond...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
18K Virgo, Vintage 18 karat zodiac charm pendant - solid yellow gold - Star Sign
Located in Antwerp, BE
For sale is this vintage charm depicting Virgo, the sixth astrological sign in the zodiac. This Constellation Star Sign Pendant is associated with the birth dates between 23 August a...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
HRD 49.15ct Natural Diamond Zambian Emerald Choker Necklace 14K White Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
Celebrate this festive season with a touch of pure brilliance. Our 14k gold diamond choker necklace is more than jewelry it’s a statement of timeless elegance. Handcrafted in solid 1...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, White Gold, 14k Gold
$54,800Sale Price|23% Off
Two-Row Luxury Diamond Necklace
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Exquisite two-row luxury diamond necklace features two elegant rows of meticulously set 32.28 carats of E/F vs quality diamonds, creating a st...
Diamond, 18k Gold
Pink Sapphire Diamond Choker Torc Necklace 14 Karat Rose Gold Fine Jewelry
Located in Deira, Dubai
This Pink Sapphire Diamond 14 Karat Rose Gold Choker Torc Necklace features graduated pink sapphires set on one side of the necklace and equal size round cut diamonds set on other si...
Diamond, Sapphire, Pink Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
14k Rose Gold Natural 15.05 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Tennis Necklace
Located in Boca Raton, FL
14k Rose Gold Natural 15.05 Carat Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Tennis Necklace Style: Tennis Necklace Material: 14k Rose Gold Design Details: 4 prong Natural Round Brilliant Diamon...
Diamond, White Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
14k Yellow Gold 7.10 Carat Diamond Tennis Necklace
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Style: Tennis Necklace Material: 14k Yellow Gold Design Details: Natural Round Brilliant Diamond Tennis Necklace Gemstone Details: Natural Round Brilliant Diamonds Diamond Weight...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rossella Ugolini 18k White Gold Surrealist Unisex Italian Pendant Necklaces
Located in Rome, IT
Rossella Ugolini 18k White Gold Surrealist Unisex Italian Pendant Necklaces. Dimension: 40 inches (80 cm ) long necklace. The surrealist handmade pendant necklace in 18k white gold, ...
White Gold, Gold, 18k Gold
Genuine Opal Facet 14K Gold Necklace
Located in GOES, NL
Large sparkling graduated Ethiopian opal necklace, methiciously hand knotted on silk finished with a 14K Solid Gold Clasp. All stones are hand carved for an extra sparkling effect. ...
Opal, Gold, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
2.05 Carat Blue Sapphire and Diamond Circle Pendant Necklace in 14k White Gold
Located in NEW YORK, NY
A stylish pendant necklace showcasing a row of blue sapphire alternating diamonds, set in an open-work, circular design. 7 oval shape sapphires weigh 2.05 and 7 brilliant-cut diamond...
Diamond, Blue Sapphire, 14k Gold, White Gold