The American Museum of Natural History is paying homage to some of the most iconic custom-made jewelry in hip-hop history with its groundbreaking exhibit, Ice Cold: An Exhibition of Hip-Hop Jewelry.
As the genre celebrates its 50th anniversary, this dazzling showcase traces the evolution of hip-hop bling over the past five decades, from oversized gold chains embraced by rap pioneers in the 1980s to the diamond-studded medallions sported by artists-turned-moguls in the 1990s.
The exhibit features stunning jewelry pieces worn by legendary hip-hop stars, each piece telling a unique story. Here are some highlights:
Slick Rick’s gem-encrusted crown: The iconic rapper Slick Rick’s crown, adorned with dazzling gems, takes center stage. This regal piece symbolizes hip-hop’s influence on fashion and self-expression.
The Notorious B.I.G.’s Legendary Gold ‘Jesus Piece’: Biggie Smalls, known for his lyrical prowess, also made a statement with his jewelry. His gold ‘Jesus piece’ pendant, a symbol of faith and style, captivates visitors.
Nicki Minaj’s Sparkling ‘Barbie’ Pendant: Nicki Minaj’s bling game is unmatched. Her Barbie pendant, boasting 54.47 carats of diamonds on 18-karat gold and bright Barbie-pink enamel, is a testament to her impact on hip-hop fashion.
Roc-A-Fella Medallion: This diamond-studded medallion represents the record label co-founded by Jay-Z. It’s a reminder of hip-hop’s entrepreneurial spirit and cultural influence.
Erykah Badu, A$AP Rocky, Joey Bada$$, FERG, and Tyler, the Creator: These artists’ jewelry pieces add depth to the exhibit. From Badu’s soulful elegance to A$AP Rocky’s playful Lego pendant, each item reflects their individuality and creativity.
Jewelry designer Alex Moss, whose work is featured in the exhibit, emphasizes that for artists, jewelry is more than adornment—it’s part of their image and persona. Moss’s 14-karat gold, jewel-encrusted LEGO pendant for A$AP Rocky exemplifies this fusion of art and identity.
“Ice Cold: An Exhibition of Hip-Hop Jewelry” opens its doors on May 9 in the Melissa and Keith Meister Gallery, part of the Allison and Roberto Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals. Don’t miss this glittering celebration of hip-hop’s cultural impact. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or a curious museum-goer, prepare to be dazzled by the bling that shaped an entire genre.
