Emily Smith

Emily Smith

Celebrity News

Jay Z flaunts massive bling at Nets game

While many eyes were on the divine Beyoncé as she sat with Jay Z courtside at the Nets game at the Barclays Center Tuesday, a few observers were distracted by Jay’s massive gold medallion.

The pendant represents the Five-Percent Nation, also known as the Nation of Gods and Earths, an organization founded in Harlem in 1964 by an ex-member of the Nation of Islam.

Members of the group call themselves Allah’s Five Percenters, who believe they are the fathers and mothers of civilization and can enlighten others.

The movement has been affiliated with hip-hop for years, influencing artists including Big Daddy Kane, Rakim, Nas, Wu-Tang Clan, Public Enemy, Busta Rhymes and Jay.

The teachings have infused hip-hop lyrics and slang.

Jay, as well as Carmelo Anthony, has been spotted wearing the Five Percenter symbol (an eight-point star) as a pendant. When asked last year if the Five Percent Nation meant anything to him, Jay said, “A little bit.”