Drake’s Jewelled iPod: An Icon of Italian Craft
Alessandro Bernini is increasingly affirming himself as the jeweller of choice for the rap scene, both in Italy and abroad. After his collaboration with A$AP Rocky and Ray-Ban, which resulted in the most expensive sunglasses in the world, Bernini has now crafted another extraordinary piece for Canadian superstar Drake, in partnership with Domenico Formichetti.
The creation is a one-of-a-kind iPod, entirely made in Italy, fashioned from solid gold and set with more than twenty-one carats of natural rubies, tsavorites, black diamonds and G-Colour VS Clarity diamonds. The pavé is designed in a distinctive camouflage pattern, where the colours of the Italian flag flow seamlessly across its surface. On the reverse, in keeping with Drake’s irreverent sense of humour, Bernini has inscribed a bold “vaffanculo” in gold and diamonds. The piece is a celebration of Italian craftsmanship, combining luxury artistry with contemporary culture.
The gift was presented during Drake’s much-anticipated run of concerts at the Unipol Forum in Assago, Milan. As part of his European tour Some Special Shows 4 U, the artist performed four nights in a row, turning the venue into the epicentre of international rap. The residency began on 30 August 2025 and included further shows on 1, 2 and 7 September. Each evening drew thousands of fans who witnessed Drake blend his chart-topping anthems with unexpected moments and collaborations.
The concert of 1 September in particular stood out. In addition to the planned setlist, Drake treated the Milan audience to tracks such as Energy, Jumpman, Over, Started From the Bottom, Madiba Riddim and Signs. Yeat joined him on stage for IDGAF and Flawless, while Italian rapper Sfera Ebbasta made a surprise appearance, performing G63, Non Metterci Becco and Visiera a Becco. The combination of international and local talent electrified the crowd and underscored Milan’s growing role as a key city in the global music landscape.
Through the golden iPod, Bernini once again demonstrated how contemporary jewellery can transcend its traditional boundaries and become part of cultural milestones. By merging high craftsmanship, daring design and the language of rap, he delivered a piece that is as provocative as it is refined, capturing the essence of both Italian artistry and Drake’s bold persona.
Image credits: Alessandro Bernini
