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.
lack Opal Diamond Heart Pendant Necklace in 18K White Gold – 85ct Natural Opal
Located in Chatsworth, CA
A breathtaking expression of luxury and rarity, this black opal and diamond heart pendant necklace showcases an extraordinary large cabochon-cut natural opal, radiating mesmerizing f...
Diamond, Opal, White Gold
Gucci x Disney Donald Duck Sterling Silver Pendant Necklace
By Gucci
Located in Feasterville, PA
Introducing the Gucci x Disney Donald Duck Pendant Necklace, a striking blend of pop culture and high fashion that exemplifies the artistry of luxu...
Sterling Silver, Enamel
Bvlgari Monete 18k Yellow Gold Ancient Coin Necklace
By Bulgari
Located in Feasterville, PA
This Bvlgari Monete Necklace, crafted in 18k yellow gold, epitomizes the brand's Roman essence with its authentic ancient bronze follis centerpiece. The Monete collection, a testamen...
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
4.01 Carat Natural Vivid-Green Emerald and Diamond Pendant Made in Platinum
Located in Tokyo, JP
A stunning Pendant featuring a 4.019 Carat, Natural Colombian Emerald and 0.74 Carats of Diamond Accents set in Platinum. People have admired emerald’s green for thousands of years. ...
Diamond, Emerald, Platinum
$295Sale Price|20% Off
Mixed Metal Modernist Snake Chain Choker Necklace By Givenchy, 1970s
By Givenchy
Located in McKinney, TX
- Vintage item - 15" length - 2.5" x 1" mixed metal focal area - Snake chain - Clasp closure - By Givenchy (signed on verso) - Dated 1977 - Estate acquired - Good vintage con...
$7,000Sale Price|20% Off
Jade Necklace 28" Fine Nephrite Highly Translucent Beads & Interlocking Rings
Located in Northampton, MA
With a creamy texture and high translucency, this 28" necklace is composed of exquisite, fine nephrite jade beads and hand-carved interlocking rings, all joined together by hand-worked 14K yellow gold wire. Created by the iconic Hawaiian jeweler, Ming's, in the 1960s or 1970s, this stunning, ethereal, and highly unusual necklace features 30 10mm round beads, and 4 sets of 17-19mm interlocking rings -each carved from a single piece of stone. This interlocked carving is often referred to as "devil...
Jade, 14k Gold
Modern 38-Inch Lariat Necklace with Multi-Color Tahitian Pearls
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
This 38-inch lariat makes a striking statement with seven luminous 11–13mm multi-color Tahitian pearls. Designed for versatility, the pearls slide effortlessly along the strand, allo...
Pearl
18 Karat Yellow Gold Cuban Chain Necklace
Located in Coral Gables, FL
18 karat yellow gold 1.5mm cuban link necklace. Length is 20 inches with spring clasp. Finished weight is 4.8 grams.
18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Marco Bicego 18 Karat Yellow Gold & Diamond Disc Circle Pendant Drop Necklace
By Marco Bicego
Located in Baltimore, MD
Marco Bicego 18 Karat Yellow Gold & Natural Diamond Disc Circle Pendant Drop Necklace Metal: 18k yellow gold Weight: 15.8 grams Pendant: 36 x 39mm Diamonds: 0.12 CTW F-G VS natural...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Rossella Ugolini Modern Emerald Man Necklace Crafted in Italy 18K Yellow Gold
Located in Rome, IT
Discover the embodiment of timeless elegance in the Rossella Ugolini Emerald Necklace, a masterpiece crafted in Italy with the modern man in mind. This necklace transcends traditiona...
Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
FLASH SALE, 8.35 Carat Natural Diamond Tennis Necklace in 14K Yellow Gold 16"
Located in Great Neck Plaza, NY
A stunning 8.35 carat natural diamond tennis necklace crafted in luxurious 14K yellow gold. This classic piece features round brilliant-cut white diamonds, meticulously set in a tim...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
14KT Rose Gold Diamond Pave Open Heart Pendant Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
Add a touch of romantic sparkle to your jewelry collection with this Diamond Pave Open Heart Pendant. Meticulously crafted in polished 14K rose gold, the necklace features a contempo...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
14K Rose Gold Round Cut Diamond Trinity Tapered Cross Pendant
Located in Antwerp, BE
This necklace features a beautifully contoured tapered cross as its meaningful focal point. The design is characterized by its soft, rounded arms and a high-polish finish that reflec...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
14K Rose Gold Round Diamond Starfish Pendant Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
Each of the five slender arms is meticulously pave-set with brilliant round diamonds, creating a continuous path of sparkle that catches the light beautifully. Suspended from a delic...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
14K Rose Gold Diamond Whale Tail Fluke Pendant Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
The whale tail, or fluke, symbolizes protection, speed, and a deep connection to nature, making it a meaningful gift for ocean lovers. One half of the tail is meticulously pave-set w...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Rose Gold
$689Sale Price / item|44% Off
14K Gold Zulfikar sword pendant with yellow sapphire
Located in Istanbul, TR
Gold layering necklaces. Solid 14 K Gold Zulfikar sword pendant with yellow sapphire. Shia Islamic Hazrat Imam Ali ibn Abi Talib علي Zulfiqar. Zulfikar double Sword. Sword of wisdom ...
Diamond, Sapphire, Gold, 14k Gold, White Gold, Yellow Gold
14KT Rose Gold Diamond Interlocking Double Heart Pendant Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
Celebrate a special bond with this elegant Interlocking Double Heart Necklace. Crafted in polished yellow gold, the pendant features two nested hearts: one with a smooth, mirror-fini...
Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
4mm Omega Chain Necklace 14k Yellow Gold
Located in South Pasadena, CA
Sleek 14k yellow gold omega necklace that measures 4mm wide. Length of 18.5 inches. A fantastic everyday necklace that will go with any outfit. Metal: 14k Yellow Gold Dimensions: ...
14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Giant Twisted Rose Quartz 14K Yellow Gold Diamond Necklace
Located in GOES, NL
A celebration of light, luxury, and rarity — this extraordinary necklace is crafted from a rare size and shape of blush pink Rose Quartz of exceptional quality. Each stone has been m...
Diamond, Quartz, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
123.98 TCW Pink Tourmaline Diamond Blue Topaz Drop Necklace Fine 18k White Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
123.98 TCW Pink Tourmaline Diamond Blue Topaz Drop Necklace Fine 18k White Gold This exquisite necklace showcases a harmonious blend of vibrant pink tourmaline gemstones paired with...
Diamond, Topaz, Tourmaline, Blue Topaz, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
$624Sale Price|20% Off
0.10 Carat Diamond Necklace in 14 Karat White Gold
Located in Hong Kong, HK
This necklace features 0.10 carat center diamond in 18 karat rose and white gold. The chain length is 17 inch. Chain 17 inch Round Cut Diamonds 0.10carat Diameter:6mm
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
Vintage 18k zodiac charm pendant - Virgo charm - solid yellow gold
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 and 23 September. This 18 ct gold charm...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Genuine Giant Blue Sleeping Beauty Turquoise Diamond Yellow Gold Necklace
Located in GOES, NL
A regal Sleeping Beauty Turquoise large beaded 20 inch long necklace with extremely rare and finest quality Sleeping Beauty Turquoises in an exceptional large size. Finished with spa...
Turquoise, Diamond, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold
Serpent Sleeping Beauty Turquoise 14K Yellow Gold Ruby Necklace
Located in GOES, NL
A regal giant handcrafted necklace with extremely rare and pure Sleeping Beauty Turquoises, natural diamonds and genuine rubies. This...
Diamond, Ruby, Turquoise, 14k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Emerald & Diamond Cerastes Necklace with Gold Chain, 18K Rose Gold, Austy Lee
By Austy Lee
Located in Hong Kong, HK
Austy Lee’s Golden Cerastes Necklace is a breathtaking creation that fuses myth, artistry, and modern elegance. Inspired by the legendary serpent of Greek mythology, the cerastes—ren...
Diamond, Emerald, 18k Gold, Rose Gold, Rhodium
Italian Vintage Sterling Silver 24” Open Link Chain
Located in Venice, CA
This vintage sterling silver open link chain has a great length and substantial presence on the neck. It consists of open oval-shaped interlocking links and a large, sturdy lobster c...
Sterling Silver
Necklace and pendant with brillint cut diamonds up to 0.26ct 14 gold 1.9 grams
Located in The Hague, ZH
14k rose gold necklace with pendant set with brilliant-cut diamonds up to 0.26ct - G/H - VS/SI – 45 cm long Detailed description the length of the necklace is 45 cm long by 0.7 mm ...
Diamond, Gold, 14k Gold
Return to Tiffany Sterling Silver Heart Tag Pendant & Dog Tag Chain Necklace
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine silver heart tag necklace. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. With a heart shaped pendant reads "Please Return to Tiffany & Co. / New York / M80560" suspended on a dog tag chain. Simply a wonderful piece from the classic Return to Tiffany line...
Sterling Silver
Modern 14k Yellow Gold Coral Bead Necklace, 11.2-12.4mm, USA
Located in Brunswick, ME
Stunning Natural Coral Necklace with stunning orange red color and lovely round shape! 11.2mm to 12.4mm big sizes(32-34 coral balls beads). 18 inch necklace with yellow gold clasp...
Coral, Yellow Gold, 14k Gold, Gold
$250Sale Price / item|40% Off
Lover's Eye Necklace — Minimalist Mother-of-Pearl Eye Pendant
Located in Istanbul, TR
Lover's Eye Necklace. Lovers Eyes Jewellery. Minimalist eye necklace. Human eye necklace. Necklace For Women, Silver 925, carved mother of pearl, moissanite. Where historic miniatur...
Gold Plate, Sterling Silver
18K Vintage zodiac pendant - Pisces charm - 18 karat solid yellow gold Star sign
Located in Antwerp, BE
For sale is this vintage charm depicting a Pisces, the twelfth astrological sign in the zodiac. This Constellation Star Sign Pendant is associated with the birth dates between 22 Feb...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Vintage Trifari Art Deco Pave and Baguette Choker Circa 1960s
By Trifari
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Trifari Art Deco Pave and Baguette Choker Circa 1960s. This is a link choker featuring pavé with baguettes underneath on each piece, and it then continues with the same patte...
Mixed Metal
$760Sale Price|20% Off
Vintage Hallmarked Sterling Silver and Lapis Lazuli Sculptural Necklace, 1970's
Located in North Miami, FL
This sculptural and fabulous hallmarked vintage sterling silver and lapis lazuli reticulated necklace is quite stunning on. It has a modernist look. This lays well on the neck. Pleas...
Lapis Lazuli, Sterling Silver
Stephen Webster Butterfly Pendant Crystal Haze Blue and Black Opalescent
Located in Amsterdam, NL
The ultimate Crystal Haze pendant by London jeweller and designer Stephen Webster, matches his Butterfly Crystal Haze Ring and is part of the Fly by Night collection. A statement pi...
Crystal, Black Diamond, Black Opal, 18k Gold, White Gold
Salvini 18K White Gold Emerald and Diamond Cross Necklace, Made in Italy
By Salvini
Located in Plantation, FL
An elegant and authentic Salvini emerald and diamond cross necklace, crafted in 18 karat white gold and made in Italy. This refined designer piece features a striking cross motif com...
Diamond, Emerald, White Gold
$23,700Sale Price / item|20% Off
Natural 9.69 Carat Diamond Dewdrop Tennis Necklace 18K White Gold Fine Jewelry
Located in Deira, AE
A graceful fusion of brilliance and modern sophistication, this exquisite necklace showcases an elegant sequence of natural pear-shaped diamonds meticulously arranged in luminous 18K...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Appartement a Louer French Designer Extra Long Chrome and Murano Beads Necklace
Located in Atlanta, GA
Designed by the French atelier Appartement à louer, this striking extra-long necklace showcases bold geometry and playful elegance. Crafted from chromed metal chain, the rare piece i...
Tiffany & Company 18 Karat yellow Gold Puff Heart Pendant Necklace
Located in Boca Raton, FL
This Tiffany & Co. Small Puff Heart pendant is crafted in 18-karat yellow gold and features the iconic Elsa Peretti-inspired heart design with a softly sculpted, dimensional form...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Modern Second-Hand 18 Karat Yellow Gold Graduated Flat Curb Chain Necklace
Located in Poitiers, FR
Necklace in 18 karat yellow gold, eagle head hallmark. A timeless yellow gold necklace, it is made up of a smooth, flat curb chain. The clasp is a lobster clasp. Length : 45 cm appro...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
Zambian Oval Emerald Natural Diamond Cluster Pear Drop Necklace 18K White Gold
Located in Deira, AE
Green and white. Emerald and diamond. Two of fine jewelry's most celebrated materials in direct, deliberate alternation — and this handmade necklace uses that contrast with complete ...
Diamond, Emerald, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Infinity Double Chain Pendant Necklace
Located in Baltimore, MD
Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Infinity Double Chain Pendant Necklace Metal: Sterling silver 925 Weight: 7.44 grams Length: 16 inches Pendant: 20mm Signed: ©Tiffany & Co. 925 ...
Sterling Silver
Diamonds, 18 Karat Rose Gold Tennis Necklace.
Located in Napoli, Campania
Elegant tennis necklace in 18 kt rose gold structusre studded with diamonds. Diamonds 3.19 Total Weight 11.20 gr RF G RAGO RK.GIGG80 For any informations, feel free to contact t...
Diamond, 18k Gold, Rose Gold
$136,000Sale Price|20% Off
Tiffany & Co. Platinum Round Diamond Solitaire Pendant Necklace
Located in Chicago, IL
Tiffany & Co. Platinum Round Diamond Solitaire Pendant Necklace A timeless creation from Tiffany & Co., this exquisite pendant features a substantial 4.01 carat round brilli...
Diamond, White Diamond, Platinum
Chalcedony-Pearls ca. 12.1 - 12.3 mm 6.50 Carat Diamonds White Gold Necklace
Located in Berlin, DE
Exquisite 18K White Gold Necklace with Chalcedony Pearls and Diamonds: This magnificent necklace embodies timeless elegance and refined luxury. Crafted from fine 18K white gold, it ...
Chalcedony, Diamond, White Gold
18k White Gold 10.17 Carat SI/H Pear Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Choker Necklace
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
16.17 Carats SI Diamonds Natural Diamond Station Necklace with 18K White Gold
Located in Deira, AE
Gracefully balancing timeless sophistication with contemporary refinement, this handcrafted necklace showcases an extraordinary 16.17 carats of natural diamonds arranged in an elegan...
Diamond, Gold, 18k Gold, White Gold
1.19 ct CS Sapphire Floral Halo Pendant
Located in New York, NY
An exquisite Floral Pendant mounted in 18K white and rose gold. The center stone is a cushion sapphire weighing 1.19Ct. The pendant is styled with Floral Closed Pave motifs surroundi...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold, White Gold
14K White Gold Classic Diamond 9.83 Ct Tennis Necklace
Located in Antwerp, BE
This elegant piece is a classic 14K White Gold Diamond Tennis Necklace. It features a continuous, flexible strand of round brilliant-cut diamonds, each meticulously held in a traditi...
Diamond, 14k Gold, White Gold
$29,706Sale Price|28% Off
35.54 Carat Aquamarin 7.39 Carat Diamond Pendant, Brooch 18k Gold
Located in Bad Kissingen, DE
delineation - 750 white and yellow gold · - Marked "750" on the outside of the chain feed-through - 1 aquamarine top quality of approx. 35.54 ct. - 31 diamonds of approx. 7,39 cts. ...
Aquamarine, Diamond, 18k Gold
GIA Certified Graduated Tennis Necklace with Emerald Cut Diamonds 37.86tcw
Located in New York, NY
GIA Certified Graduated Tennis Necklace with Emerald Cut Diamonds 37.86tcw Made in Platinum 111 stones each is GIA certified F-G color VS-VVS clarity Length: 16.5in 2 stones 1.00ct ...
Diamond, Platinum
Vintage Christian Dior “DIOR” Charm Necklace 20 Inches
Located in New York, NY
A Nod to Iconic French Style and Logo-Inspired Glamour Make a statement with this vintage Christian Dior necklace, featuring four individual charms spelling “D-I-O-R”. Suspended from...
Base Metal
Vintage Vendome Silver-Tone Wide Choker Necklace, Circa 1980s
By Vendome
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Vendome Silver-Tone Wide Choker Necklace, Circa 1980s. It has six rows of studs, the same motif Valentino now uses for its studs. This is such a great find. IT MEASURES 12.5...
Mixed Metal
Exquisite 18K Yellow Gold Pendant with Hematite and Diamonds by Victor Velyan
Located in Virginia Beach, VA
Immerse yourself in the opulent allure of this exquisite 18K yellow gold pendant, a masterful creation by the acclaimed designer Victor Velyan. This luxurious piece features a captiv...
Diamond, Hematite, 18k Gold
18K Cancer, Vintage 18 karat zodiac charm pendant - solid yellow gold Star Sign
Located in Antwerp, BE
For sale is this vintage charm depicting a Cancer, the fourth astrological sign in the zodiac. This Constellation Star Sign Pendant is associated with the birth dates between 22 June...
Gold, 18k Gold, Yellow Gold
GIA Certified 3.00 Carats F/VS1 Oval Diamond East-West Halo Necklace 18K Gold
By Rich Jewels
Located in Scottsdale, AZ
This elegant necklace features a GIA Certified 2.50 carat Oval Shape diamond, graded F color and VS1 clarity, selected for its exceptional brilliance and graceful elongated silhouett...
Diamond, 18k Gold, White Gold
Necklace and pendant with sapphire and single cut diamonds up to 0.24ct 18k gold
Located in The Hague, ZH
18k yellow gold necklace with pendant set with sapphire and single cut diamond 0.24ct - F/G - VS/SI - 45cm Detailed description the length of the necklace is 45 cm long by 0.7 mm w...
Diamond, Sapphire, 18k Gold
Chrome Hearts Tiny Fat Cross 22K Yellow Gold Diamond Pendant
Located in Tysons, VA
Authentic Chrome Hearts Tiny Fat Cross pendant crafted in luxurious 22K yellow gold and accented with brilliant natural diamonds. One of the brand’s most iconic and collectible motif...
Diamond, Yellow Gold, 22k Gold
Chrome Hearts Raleigh Dagger Cross Pink Sapphire 22 Karat Gold Charm Pendant
Located in Tysons, VA
Description: Authentic Chrome Hearts Raleigh Cross charm pendant crafted in luxurious 22K yellow gold and accented with vibrant pink sapphires. Showcasing the brand’s iconic gothic-i...
Pink Sapphire, 22k Gold, Yellow Gold, Gold
Vintage Les Bernard Gold-Tone Rigid Choker Necklace, Circa 1980s
By Les Bernard
Located in New York, NY
Vintage Vo Gold-Tone Rigid Choker Necklace, Circa 1980s. This will always be a classic style. It has been around for centuries, as you will see in the Metropolitan Museum in New Yo...
Mixed Metal
Natural 13.04 Carat Diamond Three Strand Wedding Necklace 14K White Gold
Located in Deira, Dubai
Natural 13.04 Carat Diamond Three Strand Wedding Necklace 14K White Gold features three layers of diamonds, cascading around the neckline. Each layer is meticulously arranged with ma...
Diamond, Gold, White Gold, 14k Gold