If you’ve ever seen a picture of Elvis Presley or watched one of his electrifying performances, chances are you noticed the iconic necklaces that adorned his neck. Those dazzling pieces of jewelry became as much a part of his signature look as his pompadour hairstyle and bedazzled jumpsuits.
I. Introduction
Elvis Presley was a true style icon, and his fashion choices had a profound impact on popular culture. From his early days as a rockabilly rebel to his later years as the King of Las Vegas, one thing remained constant: his love for statement necklaces. As a teenager, I remember being captivated by his flamboyant stage presence, and those eye-catching necklaces only added to his allure.
II. The Legendary TCB Necklace
Of all the necklaces Elvis wore, none is more famous or recognizable than the TCB necklace. TCB stood for “Taking Care of Business,” and it became a motto that embodied Elvis’ work ethic and commitment to his craft.
A. What Does TCB Stand For?
TCB, or “Taking Care of Business,” was a phrase that resonated deeply with Elvis Presley. It encapsulated his dedication to his music, his performances, and his fans. According to those close to him, Elvis lived by this mantra, always striving to give his best and deliver unforgettable shows.
B. Origins and Significance of the TCB Necklace
The TCB necklace was designed by Lowell Hays, a jeweler from Memphis, Tennessee, in the late 1960s. Elvis had recently discovered the phrase “Taking Care of Business” and was so taken by its meaning that he decided to have it immortalized in the form of a necklace.
The TCB necklace quickly became a symbol of Elvis’ commitment to his work and his fans. He wore it proudly during his legendary performances, and it served as a constant reminder of his drive and determination.
C. Design and Materials of the TCB Necklace
The original TCB necklace was a striking piece of jewelry crafted from 14-karat gold. The centerpiece featured the letters “TCB” encrusted with diamonds and surrounded by a lightning bolt motif, also adorned with diamonds. The necklace was suspended from a thick gold chain, adding to its bold and eye-catching appearance.
Over the years, Elvis owned several variations of the TCB necklace, each with its own unique design elements and materials. Some featured additional charms or gemstones, while others were crafted from different precious metals.
| Necklace Version | Materials | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Original TCB Necklace | 14-karat gold, diamonds | The classic design featuring the TCB letters and lightning bolt motif |
| Diamond-Studded TCB Necklace | 14-karat gold, diamonds | A version with an increased number of diamonds for added sparkle |
| Platinum TCB Necklace | Platinum, diamonds | A premium version crafted from platinum and featuring diamond accents |
Regardless of the specific design or materials, the TCB necklace remained a constant in Elvis’ wardrobe, and it became one of the most recognizable symbols associated with the King of Rock and Roll.
Popular Jewelry Pie Chart
III. Other Necklaces Worn by Elvis
While the TCB necklace may be the most iconic, Elvis Presley had a penchant for statement necklaces, and his collection featured several other noteworthy pieces.
A. The Elk Necklace
One of Elvis’ lesser-known but equally striking necklaces was the Elk Necklace. This unique piece featured a large elk head pendant crafted from gold and adorned with gemstones.
1. Background and When He Wore It
Elvis acquired the Elk Necklace in the early 1970s, and it quickly became a staple in his stage wardrobe during that period. He was particularly fond of wearing it during his concerts in Las Vegas, where his over-the-top fashion choices were celebrated.
2. Description of the Necklace’s Design
The Elk Necklace was a bold and eye-catching piece of jewelry. The centerpiece featured a large, detailed elk head pendant crafted from 14-karat gold and adorned with rubies, diamonds, and other precious gemstones. The pendant was suspended from a thick gold chain, adding to its overall weight and presence.
B. The Cross Necklace
In addition to his more flamboyant necklaces, Elvis also wore a simple yet deeply significant cross necklace, reflecting his religious beliefs and spirituality.
1. Religious Significance for Elvis
As a devout Christian, Elvis found solace and strength in his faith. The cross necklace he wore was a testament to his spiritual beliefs and served as a constant reminder of his connection to God.
2. Details on the Cross Necklace’s Style and Materials
Elvis’ cross necklace was a relatively simple design, featuring a plain silver cross pendant suspended from a delicate chain. While understated compared to his other necklaces, the cross held immense personal significance for the King of Rock and Roll.
IV. Necklaces as Part of Elvis’ Signature Look
Elvis Presley’s necklaces were more than just accessories; they were an integral part of his signature style and stage presence.
A. Complementing His Fashion Choices
Elvis was known for his flamboyant and over-the-top fashion choices, particularly during his later years in Las Vegas. His necklaces perfectly complemented his bedazzled jumpsuits, capes, and other stage attire, adding an extra layer of glitz and glamour to his performances.
As a young fan attending one of his concerts in the 1970s, I remember being mesmerized by the way his necklaces caught the stage lights, creating a dazzling display that perfectly matched his electrifying energy and showmanship.
B. Impact on Overall Stage Presence and Persona
Elvis’ necklaces weren’t just fashion statements; they were an extension of his larger-than-life persona. The bold and eye-catching designs commanded attention, drawing the audience’s gaze and adding to the overall spectacle of his performances.
Whether he was swaying his hips to the rhythm of his latest hit or striking a dramatic pose, those necklaces became a part of Elvis’ signature moves and stage presence. They were a constant reminder of his status as the King of Rock and Roll, a true icon who left an indelible mark on popular culture.
V. Legacy and Influence
A. Iconic and Widely Recognized
Elvis Presley’s necklaces, particularly the TCB necklace, have become iconic symbols recognized worldwide. Even those with little knowledge of Elvis can instantly identify the lightning bolt motif and the TCB initials, a testament to the lasting impact of his style.
During a recent trip to Graceland, Elvis’ former home in Memphis, I was struck by the sheer number of visitors sporting TCB necklace replicas or t-shirts featuring the design. It was a powerful reminder of how deeply ingrained Elvis’ fashion choices have become in popular culture.
B. Influence on Fashion and Pop Culture
Elvis’ necklaces have inspired countless fashion trends and influenced generations of artists and celebrities. From rock stars to rappers, many have paid homage to the King by incorporating similar bold necklaces into their stage looks.
| Artist/Celebrity | Necklace Influence |
|---|---|
| Lenny Kravitz | Frequently wears large, statement necklaces reminiscent of Elvis’ style |
| Harry Styles | Incorporated Elvis-inspired necklaces into his fashion choices during the “Harry’s House” era |
| Beyoncé | Wore a TCB necklace during her “Mrs. Carter Show” world tour as a tribute to Elvis |
Beyond fashion, Elvis’ necklaces have also found their way into popular culture references, solidifying their status as iconic symbols. From movies and TV shows to music videos and advertising campaigns, the TCB necklace and other Elvis-inspired designs continue to make appearances, keeping the King’s legacy alive.
C. Examples of Modern Artists or Celebrities Inspired by Elvis’ Necklace Style
One notable example of Elvis’ necklace influence can be seen in the fashion choices of rock legend Lenny Kravitz. Known for his eclectic and bold style, Kravitz has frequently incorporated statement necklaces into his stage outfits, channeling the spirit of Elvis’ iconic looks.
In a recent interview, Kravitz spoke about the impact Elvis had on his fashion sense, stating, “Elvis was a true original, and his necklaces were a part of what made him so unique and captivating on stage. I’ve always been drawn to that level of self-expression and confidence.”
Another artist who has paid homage to Elvis’ necklace style is Harry Styles. During his “Harry’s House” era, Styles sported several necklaces that seemed to take direct inspiration from the King’s TCB and cross necklaces. Fans were quick to notice the similarities, sparking discussions about the enduring influence of Elvis’ fashion choices.
Even Beyoncé, one of the biggest stars in the music industry, has embraced the TCB necklace as a tribute to Elvis. During her “Mrs. Carter Show” world tour in 2013, the pop icon wore a replica of the iconic necklace, much to the delight of her millions of fans.
VI. Conclusion
Elvis Presley’s necklaces were more than just accessories; they were a powerful extension of his larger-than-life persona and a testament to his unwavering commitment to his craft. From the legendary TCB necklace to the bold Elk Necklace and the simple yet meaningful cross, each piece held a special significance for the King of Rock and Roll.
As we’ve explored, these necklaces complemented Elvis’ flamboyant fashion choices, added to his electrifying stage presence, and ultimately became iconic symbols recognized worldwide. Their influence has transcended generations, inspiring countless artists and celebrities to incorporate similar bold and statement-making necklaces into their own styles.
So, the next time you see someone wearing a TCB necklace or a piece of jewelry reminiscent of Elvis’ style, remember the rich history and lasting impact of the King’s fashion choices. It’s a testament to the enduring power of his legacy and a reminder that true icons never truly fade away.