NEW YORK, NY —Tiffany & Co. today announces its collaboration with visionary artist Kendrick Lamar who, together with his longtime creative collaborator and pgLang co-founder Dave Free, commissioned the jeweler to create a custom-made titanium and pavé diamond crown. Steeped in meaning and symbolism, the thorny crown was brought to life at the hands of Tiffany’s most accomplished artisans at its New York City workshop over the span of 10 months. This design represents the House’s latest innovative partnership, connecting the art world with the skills of its designers and artisans. Lamar wore the crown during his headlining performance at Glastonbury on June 26, 2022.

“Kendrick Lamar represents the artistry, risk-taking creativity and relentless innovation that has also defined Tiffany & Co. for nearly two centuries,” says Alexandre Arnault, Executive Vice President, Product and Communication, Tiffany & Co. “We are proud and incredibly excited to work with a visionary like Kendrick in realizing his vision for the crown.”

Lamar and Free first approached the design team at Tiffany & Co. in 2021 with their idea for a headpiece inspired by the “Crown of Thorns.” Arguably one of the most widely recognized symbols of religious iconography, the “Crown of Thorns” is a metaphor for artistic prowess, humility and perseverance. For Lamar, this one-of-a-kind design by Tiffany & Co. is a nod of respect to the prolific artists who came before him, as well as a powerful statement of Lamar’s influence and contributions to music and culture.

Lamar and Free had a clear vision and intention for the crown’s design. In addition to referencing the “Crown of Thorns,” the artists were also inspired by Jean Schlumberger’s iconic Thorns brooch that the legendary designer created in 1947, prior to joining Tiffany & Co. in 1956. The Thorns brooch, which features thorny projections handcrafted from 18k yellow gold that encircle a 47-carat sapphire, is currently on display at the House’s Vision & Virtuosity exhibition in London, now through August 19.