Image via Complex Original
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Celebrities love to show off their wealth, and that often means buying the biggest chains and most expensive stones. Interestingly though, we've noticed a ton of rappers rocking vintage jewelry recently. In the last year or so, Pharrell, Rick Ross, and 2 Chainz have all been seen in everything from Chanel, Versace, to Cartier that dates back to the 1970s.
We know vintage may not appeal to everyone, but trust us—some of the coolest shit was made before you were ever born. Especially when it comes to jewelry. While we can appreciate a Ben Baller chain or a $24,000 Cartier ring just as much as the next person, sometimes vintage just can't be matched. Don't believe us? Check out who's been spotted rocking these accessories in our gallery of Rappers Wearing Vintage Jewelry.
2 chainz
2 Chainz
When: May 20, 2012
Where: Velvet Room in Atlanta
Complex says: Yes, that's the same ring 2 Chainz was arrested over. But ignore that for a second and check out his vintage Chanel cuff and Christian Lacroix chain. He's killing it; he's got one of the best collections of vintage jewelry in the game.
big sean
Big Sean
When: December 2011
Where: The Source cover
Complex says: Big Sean is all about gold accessories. The G.O.O.D Music rapper wears tons of it, whether it'd be bracelets, chains, or rings. But we have to say, his Chanel Gold Cambon Logo Coin Bracelet has to be one of his dopest pieces.
theophilus
Theophilus London
Where: April 26, 2012
When: TAA Awards & Celebration
Complex says: If there's one rapper who should be on this list it's Theophilus London. The Brooklyn rapper is known for his vintage finds, including jewelry.
Pharrell
Pharrell
Where: March 2, 2012
When: Lanvin Fashion Show in Paris
Complex says: It's no secret that many of your favorite rappers rock Cartier. But who else do you know owns this dope Cartier Aldo Cipullo Vintage Nail Cuff? It was designed exclusively for Cartier back in the 1970s during the glory days of Studio 54 by Aldo Chipuro. The bracelet has been reissued since but having the vintage piece is just that much better.
a$ap rocky
A$AP Rocky
When: April 2012
Where: On the set of the "Goldie" video
Complex says: As one of the most stylish New Yorkers right now, it's only right that Pretty Flacko is decked out in some of the finest gear, including the sick Versace ring he's wearing.
wiz khalifa
Wiz Khalifa
When: August 28, 2011
Where: MTV VMAs
Complex says: Wiz Khalifa stays winning—Chanel chains and Amber Rose?
rick ross
Rick Ross
When: May 2012
Where: "Touch'n You" single cover
Complex says: We all know that Rick Ross has an affinity for vintage frames. We also know that he's no stranger to Versace. So put his love for the two together and you get this sick vintage Versace chain. Stuntin' like a bawse!
kendrick lamar
Kendrick Lamar
When: May 2012
Where: Phoenix
Complex says: Looks like Chanel accessories are the most popular in the game, and rightfully so. Kendrick Lamar OD'ed on the luxury brand, rocking a couple of chains, a bracelet and a silk scarf.
p. diddy
Diddy
When: February 2012
Where: "Shot Caller (Remix)" video
Complex says: See what we mean? Hip-hop's got a love for the Chanel.
2 chainz
2 Chainz
When: May 2012
Where: "Undastatement" video
Complex says: 2 Chainz has a great relationship with the team at Vintage Frames Company. He stops by their Montreal store to check out what they have whenever he's in town, and he schedules a private appointment if he's in the States. So we can see how he's built a huge collection of vintage jewelry.
We've already seen his Chanel and Christian Lacroix pieces but it looks like that's not all he has. Peep his Chanel chain and sunglasses above. We wouldn't be surprised if he's got more.
wale
Wale
When: January 18, 2012
Where: 40/40 Club
Complex says: Sometimes one chain is all you really need, especially if it's Chanel.