the history of grillz by icyfangsldn

🪙 Gold Teeth Through History: From Ancient Royalty to Street Fashion- ICYFANGSLDN

Before “iced-out smiles” took over London and TikTok, gold teeth already carried stories of power, identity, and pride that go back thousands of years.

👑 Ancient Origins: Power and Status

The first recorded examples of gold dental work go back to Etruscan women in 7th century BC Italy, who wore gold bands to show off their wealth and social rank.
Across the world, in West Africa and the Philippines, gold teeth became symbols of beauty and resilience — not just luxury. They weren’t trying to “flex”; they were celebrating identity.

⚜️ The Caribbean Connection

When African and Asian traditions met in the Caribbean, gold teeth took on a new life.
For many people in Jamaica and Trinidad, wearing gold caps became a mark of pride and self-expression — especially during times when class or colonial prejudice made standing out seem rebellious. A gold tooth was confidence you could wear.

🎤 Hip-Hop’s Golden Age

Fast-forward to New York in the 1980s. Gold caps evolved into grillz, and the movement went from the block to the Billboard charts.
Rappers like Big Daddy Kane, Slick Rick, and later Paul Wall turned dental jewelry into a creative statement — proof that fashion didn’t have to fit in a box. Each piece was custom, personal, and bold.

💎 Today’s Evolution: Art, Not Just Accessory

Now, artists, stylists, and brands around the world have redefined gold smiles. From A$AP Rocky and Rihanna to London creatives and beauty techs, grillz and gems represent freedom — the freedom to shine however you want.
At ICYFANGSLDN, we keep that same energy alive — mixing ancient craftsmanship with modern creativity. Every gem and grill we make continues a story that started centuries ago

Back to blog

💬 Thinking about getting your own Y2K smile? Book your appointment here