Jewelry has long been a part of the hip-hop culture. Not only is it fashionable, but it also represents different eras of the genre and spurs pop culture trends. Many pieces have become personal staples for artists as they identify specific designs. All of them speak to the great history of the genre, and now you’ll be able to view them all at the “Ice Cold: An Exhibition of Hip Hop Jewelry” exhibit.
Beginning May 9, 2024, hip-hop fans can visit New York City’s American Museum of Natural History to view important pieces of jewelry connected to the genre. This exhibition was created, in part, to continue celebrating the 50th anniversary of hip-hop. Additionally, many of the jewelry pieces have been worn by the stars themselves. The museum’s goal is to honor the journey of hip-hop through the years with the art of jewelry.
Stars lend their statement pieces to the American Museum of Natural History.
The “Ice Cold” exhibition will feature jewelry from the ’80s to the present. The gem-encrusted crown from Slick Rick and a ‘Jesus piece’ made famous by Notorious B.I.G. will be on display. These selections represent the origins of hip-hop and how the genre has evolved.
To represent the ’90s, the diamond-studded Roc-A-Fella medallion worn by Jay-Z will be available for viewing. These pieces and others will remind visitors of the heyday of rappers becoming business-minded.
The 2000s hip-hop trends are showcased by many of today’s artists, including Nicki Minaj‘s Barbie pendant, pieces from Erykah Badu, Joey Bada$$, and Tyler, the Creator. Most of the jewelry representing the 2000s will pay homage to today’s jewelry makers’ elaborate and tedious designs.
The “Ice Cold” exhibit is curated by hip-hop’s best.
The American Museum of Natural History was precise in choosing some of the music industry’s best to sit on the advisory board.
“Ice Cold is being developed by a curatorial team and advisory board that includes artists, industry professionals, jewelers, and academics,” a museum rep stated via a press release.
Vikki Tobak, journalist and the author of “Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History,” spearheads the project. In addition, Karem Gill, the director and filmmaker of the “Ice Cold” documentary, and Kevin Lee, the COO of Quality Control Music, joined the team.
“Jewelry is a cornerstone of hip-hop culture and you can see the evolution of jewelry alongside the rise of hip-hop itself,” said Vikki Tobak via a press release. “From being a culture formed in communities and neighborhoods, and then stepping into its power and starting to impact global pop culture, hip-hop, and its jewelry tell a bigger story.”
As hip-hop passes its 50-year mark and continues to impact the music industry, it is important to honor its roots. Hip-hop jewelry is not only a part of the aesthetic but a form of self-expression utilizing design, personal style, and creativity.
Will you attend the “Ice Cold: An Exhibition of Hip Hop Jewelry” exhibit? Let us know in the comments below.
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