Jacob Arabo

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Jacob Arabo (a.k.a. "Jacob the Jeweler", born Jakov Arabov) is a famed Bukharian-American Jewish jeweler who is owner and founder of Jacob & Company. He also claims fame to providing watches and other jewelry to hip hop artists, National Basketball Association Players, and other celebrities like Sir Elton John, Bono, and Rudy Giuliani in the United States. In the mid-to late 1990’s, many music industry icons - as well as up and coming recording artists - were taken by Jacob’s unique creations. Personalities such as Whitney Houston and Mary J. Blige recommended Jacob to a host of their high profile male and female friends, spawning a buzz throughout the music industry which continues to resonate today ^[1]. Arabo has been referenced in numerous hip hop songs since around 2000. In keeping with hip hop style, his works are notable for conspicuous use of gold and diamonds, among other precious materials.

Arabo's work is so well known that his name is synonymous with expensive jewelry. Arabo also makes an appearance in the fighting game, Def Jam: Fight for NY.

[edit] Legal Issues

In November 24, 2004 Cartier filed a trademark infringement lawsuit against Arabo, claiming he took Cartier watches and added diamonds, then resold them without permission.

In June 2006, Arabo was arrested by the FBI on money laundering charges. He is said to have used his jewelry business to launder up to 270 million dollars in drug money for the so-called Black Mafia Family drug ring. Arabo denied all charges and was released after posting bail.

[edit] Partial List Of songs That Reference Jacob Arabo

Please note, that although this list is not complete, there is a trend that his name is being referenced more and more throughout the years. Although some artists say his name more than once, his popularity in songs is growing.