Two floors above a locally owned hardware store on the south side of Atlantic Avenue in Brooklyn, Johnny Nelson sits on a bench press with a heavy Tibetan singing bowl in his lap. It hums richly as sunbeams cut through the skylight, setting his sculpted knuckles ablaze. This is Nelson's studio; the place where he blends the influences of punk, hip-hop, history and spirituality and has quickly become one of the most sought-after jewelry designers in the world. From 17 September to 10 October, Sotheby's is pleased to present two of Nelson's signature pieces in Brilliant & Black, the first-ever selling exhibition dedicated to black jewelry designers, showcasing custom work from 21 of the world's leading artists. With subjects including Harriet Tubman, Marcus Garvey and Malcolm X, Nelson's pendants, necklaces and three-finger rings are as much a celebration of history and culture as they are a showcase of power.