Jacob the Jeweler, born Yakov Arabov, is a Bukharian-American jeweler with an estimated net worth of $50 million. As the founder of Jacob & Co., a luxury watch and jewelry brand, he has built an empire known for crafting extravagant, diamond-encrusted timepieces and accessories. His clientele includes A-list celebrities, hip-hop moguls, and elite athletes such as Floyd Mayweather, Sir Elton John, Bono, and David Beckham.
| Jacob Arabo Net Worth | $50 Million |
| Date of Birth | December 26, 1965 |
| Place of Birth | Tashkent, Uzbekistan |
| Profession | Jeweler |
Jacob the Jeweler gained mainstream recognition after being frequently name-dropped in rap lyrics by artists like Jay-Z, Kanye West, 50 Cent, and Nas. His iconic “Billionaire” watch, adorned with 260 carats of emerald-cut diamonds, was sold to Floyd Mayweather for $18 million, while a less lavish version, the “Millionaire,” retails for $6 million. However, his career has not been without controversy, as he served a two-and-a-half-year prison sentence for financial misconduct.
Early Life
Jacob the Jeweler was born on December 26, 1965, in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, as the youngest of five children. His fascination with jewelry began at a young age, particularly after receiving a world-time watch from his father at 13. When his family emigrated to the United States at 14, they faced financial struggles, prompting him to enroll in a six-month jewelry-making course in New York. He completed it in just four months and soon began designing his own jewelry at night while working in a wholesale factory during the day.
By 17, Jacob was crafting custom pieces, and by 21, he launched his own company, Jacob & Co., in 1986. His bold and extravagant designs quickly caught the attention of New York’s hip-hop community, with Notorious B.I.G. famously dubbing him “Jacob the Jeweler.” His association with high-profile artists, including Jay-Z and Sean Combs, helped establish him as the go-to jeweler for celebrities.
Luxury Jewelry Industry
Jacob & Co. expanded rapidly throughout the 1990s, pioneering oversized diamond jewelry for men—a trend that remains popular today. He collaborated with top-tier entertainers and athletes, including Madonna, Pharrell Williams, Jennifer Lopez, and Michael Jordan, further solidifying his status in the luxury market.
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In 2002, he introduced the Five Time Zone collection, featuring bold, colorful timepieces inspired by international travel. Celebrities such as Naomi Campbell, Bono, and Derek Jeter wore these watches, boosting their global appeal.
By 2004, Jacob moved his flagship boutique from New York’s Diamond District to an upscale location at 57th Street and Park Avenue. In 2007, he expanded to Geneva, Switzerland, launching Jacob & Co. SA and unveiling the Quenttin, the first watch with a vertical tourbillon and a 31-day power reserve, a groundbreaking achievement in haute horology.
Jacob’s innovations continued with releases such as the Epic SF24, a two-time-zone watch inspired by vintage airport split-flap boards, and the Astronomia Tourbillon, a celestial-themed timepiece that debuted at Baselworld in 2013. By 2016, there were 99 variations of the Astronomia Tourbillon, each a testament to his signature fusion of jewelry and high-watchmaking.
Imprisonment
Despite his success, Jacob the Jeweler faced legal issues that threatened his career. In 2006, he was arrested for allegedly laundering $270 million in drug profits for the Black Mafia Family (BMF), a Detroit-based criminal organization. Although some charges were dropped, he pleaded guilty in 2008 to falsifying records and making false statements. He was sentenced to two and a half years in federal prison, fined $50,000, and ordered to forfeit $2 million in assets. After serving his sentence, he was released in April 2010.
Personal Life
Jacob the Jeweler married his wife, Angela, at 24, and the couple shares three sons—David, Benjamin, and Joey. Benjamin now plays a role in the family business, ensuring that Jacob & Co. continues its legacy. The family resides in a brick Colonial house in Forest Hills, Queens.
In 2016, Jacob and Angela purchased a $16.68 million luxury condo on Park Avenue in New York City, further cementing their place among the city’s elite.
Jacob Arabo Net Worth
Jacob Arabo net worth is $50 million.
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