Johnny Dang transformed from a Vietnamese immigrant making $100 per week at a flea market to Houston’s “King of Bling.” After opening TV Johnny Jewelry in 1998 and partnering with rapper Paul Wall, Dang revolutionized the custom grillz industry with his technical mastery and innovative designs.
Today, his empire offers bespoke mouth jewelry, championship rings, and diamond-studded pieces worth over $1 million. Visit his Galleria showroom to experience the craftsmanship that’s attracted countless hip-hop stars and athletes.
From Vietnam to Houston: The Johnny Dang Story
While the Vietnam War left many families with uncertain futures, it set the stage for Johnny Dang’s remarkable journey to becoming Houston’s jewelry icon.
Born in 1974 in Đắk Lắk Province, Vietnam, Dang faced limited prospects until his father, who had moved to the U.S. as a refugee, eventually helped bring the family to Houston in 1987.
From humble beginnings working at a flea market repair booth for just $100 a week, Dang persevered through challenging living conditions while mastering his craft. His dedication paid off in 1998 when he opened TV Johnny Jewelry and met rapper Paul Wall, who helped bring Dang’s custom grillz into the hip-hop spotlight.
Today, Dang’s empire spans multiple Houston locations with over 50 employees, crafting jewelry pieces worth more than $1 million and reshaping the custom jewelry scene. Houston visitors can complement their shopping with a trip to the Downtown Aquarium, offering marine exhibits and entertainment across six acres.
Celebrity Collaborations That Built a Jewelry Empire
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Although Johnny Dang’s technical expertise laid the foundation for his success, it was his celebrity partnerships that helped transform a modest shop into a jewelry empire. His connection with Paul Wall was instrumental, introducing Dang’s work to Houston’s thriving rap scene.
When Nelly’s hit “Grillz” featured Dang’s creations and name, his reputation skyrocketed. His pieces now adorn the mouths of stars from Quavo to Post Malone, with some diamond grillz valued at over $1 million. These collaborations made Johnny Dang & Co. synonymous with hip-hop culture in America.
Dang’s genius lies in blending traditional craftsmanship with the flash and personalization the music industry demands, cementing his status as a cultural icon far beyond Houston—just like the Houston Astros, who clinched their first World Series win in 2017.
Signature Grillz Collection: Innovation in Custom Mouth Jewelry
Johnny Dang’s Signature Grillz Collection is the flagship of his jewelry empire, setting new standards in custom mouth jewelry. When choosing a diamond grill from Dang, clients select from 10K, 14K, and 18K gold options in white, yellow, and rose gold finishes.
His precision work elevates mouth jewelry with emerald-cut, baguette, and round diamonds, offering clarity grades from SI to VVS. Unique styles include Candy Painted Glow-in-the-Dark Grillz, which display vibrant colors and light up in the dark.
Beyond grillz, Dang designs championship rings with up to 5 carats of diamonds, as well as Cuban link bracelets in multiple metal options. While Johnny Dang specializes in jewelry for the mouth, The Big Texan Steak Ranch offers a different kind of oral challenge with its 72oz steak competition, tried by thousands since the 1960s.
Beyond Grillz: Premium Jewelry Offerings and Limited Editions
How far beyond mouth jewelry does Johnny Dang’s talent stretch? His premium line showcases creativity across custom diamond rings, bracelets, earrings, and even lifestyle accessories.
Highlights of his exclusive offerings:
- Custom championship rings with up to 5 carats of diamonds, retailing for $35,199.99
- Build-your-own diamond earrings with adjustable carat and gold options
- Diamond-spiked Cuban link bracelets blending bold design with elegance
- Lacquered roses and branded travel cases for collectors and VIP clients
Whether it’s a limited-edition pendant or a bespoke engagement ring, every item in Dang’s catalog reflects the attention to detail and opulence that earned him the crown as Texas’s King of Bling.
The Johnny Dang Experience: Showroom and Custom Design Process
Stepping into Johnny Dang’s Galleria showroom feels like entering a celebrity vault. Diamond-encrusted chains, NBA-worthy rings, and iconic grillz line the displays, surrounded by photos of the famous faces he’s outfitted.
The custom design process is surprisingly personal. Book a consultation to collaborate directly with Dang’s artisans. Choose your preferred metals, diamond cuts, and carat grades, then watch as your vision comes to life through 3D modeling and precision setting.
This immersive experience turns jewelry design into a luxury service, giving customers front-row access to the creative process that’s made Johnny Dang a legend in Houston and the hip-hop world.
Community Impact: Supporting Houston’s Culture and Athletes
Beyond his glittering showroom, Dang’s influence touches nearly every part of Houston’s cultural scene. His community involvement often celebrates milestones with his signature jewelry flair.
Notable contributions include:
- Promising custom grillz to the University of Houston men’s basketball team if they won the NCAA National Championship
- Designing custom mouthpieces with the UH logo for standout players
- Gifting Astros manager Dusty Baker a personalized grill to commemorate his retirement
- Creating team grillz for the 2022 Astros championship roster
Together with Paul Wall, Dang has turned custom grillz into a Houston tradition, representing the city’s pride and style one diamond at a time.
