ICE COLD: AN EXHIBITION OF HIP HOP JEWELRY
May 9, 2024 — January 5, 2025
AMERICAN MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY
“Throughout the Museum, you’ll see objects that open a window onto our shared past or our current world, whether that’s nature, science, or culture. In Ice Cold, the objects are magnificent jewelry pieces and the window opens into one of the most powerful social and cultural forces of the past 50 years, Hip Hop”
The American Museum of Natural History invites you to experience Ice Cold: An Exhibition of Hip-Hop Jewelry, a stunning showcase of creativity, resilience, and cultural influence. The exhibit dives into the history and artistry of hip-hop jewelry, highlighting its evolution from the bold designs of the 1980s to today’s intricate masterpieces.
Featuring works worn by some of the biggest names in hip-hop—including Slick Rick, Nicki Minaj, A$AP Rocky, Bad Bunny, The Notorious B.I.G., and Erykah Badu—this extraordinary collection shines a light on jewelry as a powerful statement of individuality, success, and self-expression. Located in the Melissa and Keith Meister Gallery within the Museum’s Allison and Roberto Mignone Halls of Gems and Minerals, Ice Cold seamlessly blends hip-hop’s cultural significance with the natural history of adornment.
Jewelry as Art and Identity
Ice Cold tells a story of empowerment and artistic innovation. Highlights include Slick Rick’s iconic crown and eye patch, Flavor Flav’s unforgettable clock pendant, and The Notorious B.I.G.’s legendary gold “Jesus piece.” From Nas’ “QB” pendant celebrating his Queensbridge roots to A$AP Rocky’s LEGO-inspired minifigure pendant, each piece serves as a canvas for storytelling and self-expression.
Guest curator Vikki Tobak describes the exhibit as “a testament to the cultural significance of this art form,” celebrating everyone from the artists and jewelers to the craftspeople who helped shape the visual language of hip-hop.
Designed by Slick Rick, who embraces grandeur and royalty in his style, this costume jewelry piece is by Tanya Jones of Lucki Crowns. Presented with the crown is a custom-made eyepatch designed for Slick Rick by Jacob & Co in 2012, with refinements by Avianne & Co in 2023, featuring platinum and diamonds.
Alvaro Keding/© AMNH
A Journey Through Hip-Hop’s Evolution
The exhibit takes visitors on a chronological journey through hip-hop’s history:
1980s: Local jewelers crafted bold, one-of-a-kind pieces like Biz Markie’s gold nameplate and DJ Kay Slay’s crown-shaped “Drama King” pendant.
1990s: Jewelry became a symbol of entrepreneurial success, with diamond-encrusted label chains like Jay-Z’s Roc-A-Fella medallion and Ghostface Killah’s massive Eagle arm band.
Today: Contemporary artists push boundaries with designs like Nicki Minaj’s “Barbie” pendant and Tyler, the Creator’s necklace celebrating his CALL ME IF YOU GET LOST album, featuring over 23,000 hand-set stones.
Why This Exhibit Matters
“Ice Cold will truly spark a sense of excitement and curiosity,” says hip-hop legend and exhibit advisor Slick Rick. “It’s a harmonious blend of creativity and cultural significance.” From the natural gems that inspire the jewelry to the social and cultural impact of hip-hop, the exhibition offers a fresh perspective on a global phenomenon that continues to influence fashion, style, and culture.