Phillips de Pury was planning to auction off a bunch of bling worn by (literal) luminaries such as 50 Cent, Missy Elliott, Notorious B.I.G., P. Diddy, and Tupac Shakur on October 1. However, we've received word the "Hip Hop's Crown Jewels" auction has been delayed until March 5, 2009. Goodness — think of all the rich people who will now have to spend the entire winter blingless! But never fear, you wealthy scoundrels, you. For the auction house has your best interests at heart. In a press release, they explain they're rescheduling the auction to account for increased demand. Simon de Pury, chairman of Phillips de Pury & Co., says in a statement:

These extraordinarily designed pieces herald one of the most groundbreaking and era-defining movements of the late 20th and early 21st Century. We have determined that there is more significant property to be consigned and that to enlarge the sale we will increase the offering which is in great demand.

So our crap-ass economy has nothing to do with it! Simon and his friends just need to gather more bling. Someone's gotta keep conspicuous consumption alive and kickin'.

Related: Phillips de Pury Gon’ Get Crunk With Giant Bling Auction