PnB Rock’s Diamond Chain Robbery Sparked Security Changes Across the Jewelry Industry

On September 12, 2022, rapper PnB Rock was shot and killed during a robbery at Roscoe’s Chicken & Waffles in Los Angeles — all over a diamond chain.

He had been dining with his girlfriend, who tagged the location in an Instagram story. Minutes later, armed robbers stormed the restaurant, demanding his jewelry. When PnB Rock resisted, he was fatally shot, and his iced-out diamond chain was stolen from his neck.

🔗 What Was Taken

• Main item: A large diamond-encrusted pendant chain, valued at over $100,000

• Stones: VS+ round diamonds in a bold Miami Cuban link

• Customization: His initials “PnB” were set in baguettes and round diamonds

• Also taken: Watch, rings, and additional smaller chains

The LAPD later recovered the chain and arrested a 17-year-old suspect and his father in connection to the crime.

🕊️ Aftermath and Industry Shock

PnB Rock’s murder led to massive backlash over:

• Posting real-time locations while wearing expensive jewelry

• Dining in public without security while wearing over $200K in diamonds

• The increasing targeting of rappers for jewelry theft

Artists like Meek Mill, Boogie, and 21 Savage spoke out, urging others to move smarter and not flaunt without protection.

🛡️ What Changed in the Jewelry World

• Jewelers began offering “tour jewelry” — replicas for public appearances

• Celebrities requested undercover armed escorts while wearing bustdown pieces

• Jewelry insurance companies revised their risk tiers for rappers and athletes

• NYC’s Diamond District stores pushed “invisible flex” packages — lower-key custom designs without full bustdown

Even fans became more aware of the risks tied to flaunting jewelry on Instagram.