A rare Fabergé locket, swallowed by a thief during a daring jewellery heist in Auckland, New Zealand, has been recovered intact by police without any medical intervention. According to the BBC, the 32-year-old man ingested the locket after stealing it from Partridge Jewellers in central Auckland approximately a week ago, attempting to evade capture. Quick action by staff prompted the police to arrest him almost immediately.
The locket, known as the ‘Octopussy Egg’, is a remarkable piece of craftsmanship. According to Fabergé’s official website, it contains 60 white diamonds and 15 sapphires, with a small octopus figure made from 18-carat gold nestled inside. Inspired by the 1983 James Bond film, the piece is valued at around US$19,300. Following its recovery, Partridge Jewellers confirmed that the locket will be returned to Fabergé.
The accused has been formally charged and remains in custody, undergoing routine health checks. He is scheduled to appear in court again on 8 December. Court documents indicate that this is not his first alleged offence: he is also accused of stealing an iPad from the same shop on 12 November, as well as items such as cat litter and pest control products from a residential property, valued at approximately NZ$100.
Fabergé, established in Russia over two centuries ago, is world-renowned for its intricate, jewel-encrusted egg-shaped artworks, many of which are highly sought after by collectors and museums alike. The Octopussy Egg locket represents a continuation of this legacy, blending exquisite craftsmanship with whimsical design inspired by popular culture.
Key Details of the Theft and Recovery
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Locket Name | Octopussy Egg |
| Jewels | 60 white diamonds, 15 sapphires |
| Material | 18-carat gold (octopus figure inside) |
| Estimated Value | US$19,300 |
| Location of Theft | Partridge Jewellers, central Auckland |
| Suspect Status | 32-year-old man in custody, health checks ongoing |
| Additional Allegations | Theft of iPad and minor household items |
Police praised the swift response of store staff, noting that their alertness was key to preventing the locket from being lost permanently. The unusual nature of this case has captured global attention, highlighting both the audacity of the theft and the resilience of the priceless Fabergé creation.