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Part 9: Ben Baller on Meeting Drake in 2009: Being Black & Jewish, I Knew He'd Be Huge
Part 7: Ben Baller: I Sold My 1,800 Pair Sneaker Collection for $2.9M & Bought a Ferrari
Part 1: Ben Baller on Getting Arrested as a Kid, Sheriff Slamming His Head Against Jail Wall
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Renowned jeweler Ben Baller sat down with VladTV to discuss his journey in the jewelry business, including his start in 2005 when he joined his cousin’s company. Although initially knowing nothing about the industry, Ben rapidly leveraged his hip-hop contacts to break into the scene, especially when Jacob the Jeweler faced legal issues. Artists like Nas, The Game, and The Clipse became his initial clientele, with Fat Joe's iconic "Coca Baby" piece providing a crucial breakthrough. Ben recalls learning the technical aspects of jewelry-making, including diamond setting, to gain control over his craftsmanship.
The conversation also touched on dramatic moments in Ben's career, including an incident where he and others defended their store from a thief, resulting in a physical confrontation involving a fire extinguisher. Despite these tumultuous events, Ben celebrated two decades of financial success and continued creative endeavors in the jewelry world, making pieces for icons like Michael Jackson.
