With its unapologetic force and creative energy, hip hop culture not only disrupted but exploded and remade the American cultural vernacular. From sneakers to jewelry, the evolution of hip hop defined a new vision of cool and redefined the world of adornment, luxury and style. As documented by Ice Cold: A Hip-Hop Jewelry History, by Vikki Tobak, diamonds, gold and other precious forms of adornment became a shining statement of identity, swagger and even notions of the American dream. This conversation focuses on the semiotics of hip hop jewelry and how the culture was an integral part of music and history.

• A Conversation About Hip Hop Fashion Details & Tickets