A bizarre theft in Auckland has caught global attention after a New Zealand man swallowed a diamond-encrusted Fabergé egg worth nearly US$20,000 in an attempt to escape with the luxury item. The 32-year-old suspect snatched the rare green pendant from a high-end jewellery store late last week but was arrested before he could make a getaway.
Police Waiting for Thief to “Pass” Stolen Egg
According to New Zealand police, the ornate trinket has still not been recovered. Authorities revealed that an officer is currently assigned to monitor the suspect until “nature takes its course.”
In an official statement, police confirmed: “At this stage, the pendant has not been recovered.” The unusual situation has created a tense wait, as investigators hope the Fabergé egg emerges intact.
The stolen piece is a special-edition locket inspired by the James Bond film Octopussy, which centers around the theft of a rare Fabergé egg. The pendant features an 18k gold lattice, set with blue sapphires and white diamonds, forming an intricate floral-style pattern. Inside the locket sits a miniature golden octopus, adding to the craftsmanship and value of the piece.
Fabergé Legacy Adds to Intrigue
The design draws its prestige from the famed House of Fabergé, the Russian jewellery dynasty known for creating opulent, gem-studded Easter eggs in the late 19th century. These masterpieces became symbols of luxury, rarity, and imperial elegance — making the Auckland theft even more sensational.
As police continue their wait for the egg’s recovery, the case has sparked widespread curiosity and amusement, blending high-end jewellery theft with an unusual method of concealment.
