A Guide to the Bling Chain
A Guide to the Bling Chain
The bling chain is one of hip hop jewelry’s most iconic pieces. This type of necklace features a variety of shiny, gemstone-like beads that create a dazzling aesthetic. Bling chains have become a symbol of success and wealth in the music industry, but they are also a way for rappers to express their unique style and persona. This guide explores the origins of bling, tips on how to purchase and wear them, and advice on caring for bling chains to ensure they last.
The term “bling” originated from hip-hop culture and was first used by Dana Dane in 1987. It is an onomatopoeia that imitates the sound of gems, jewelry and money jingling. It soon became part of hip-hop slang and is still in use today. Its popularity increased after the birth of the rap movement in the 1980s, with the legendary groups RUN DMC and Slick Rick leading the trend. Other prominent rap artists like Big Daddy Kane and Rakim followed suit, and the bling trend was born.
Blinged out chains are made from high-quality precious metals like gold and silver, and can be adorned with diamonds and other gemstones to add more visual appeal. Depending on the material and size, these chains can be very expensive. For example, some iced out chains are worth up to $500,000, such as Lil Jon’s “Crunk Ain’t Dead” chain. The price tag of these chains can be attributed to the amount of diamonds embedded, the amount of metal used, and the brand that crafts the necklace.
Despite their high price tags, bling chains are a popular fashion accessory that can be worn by anyone. They can be paired with casual outfits or even formal attire to create a bold statement. They can also be layered with other jewelry pieces to create a more complex look. To get the most out of a bling chain, it is important to select one with a good quality gold plating. A high-quality bling chain will have a thicker gold plating, which will help it resist tarnish and other environmental factors that may cause the chain to dull over time. Laie Jewelry uses a 5 times gold plating for their bling chains to provide the best longevity and shine.
Rappers often wear multiple chains to make a statement about their confidence, success, and personal style. The use of chains as a form of self-expression and branding is particularly powerful in the world of hip-hop, where the artist’s personal style and philosophies are a reflection of their journey and their identity within the culture. Whether a rapper is boasting about their achievements or trying to stand out from the crowd, the bling on their chain is a testament to their hard work and determination.
While rappers’ chains are a powerful symbol of their wealth, they can also be a source of vulnerability. Rappers’ chains can be a target for thieves, and a loss of a chain can have significant financial consequences. This is particularly true for young rappers, who are at a higher risk of being targeted by criminals. In 2019, a rapper named YBN Almighty Jay was assaulted and robbed of his $40,000 chain, highlighting the risks of wearing a flashy piece of jewelry.