Auckland Thief Swallows $20,000 Diamond-Encrusted Faberge Egg: Police Await Natural Recovery

A small golden octopus is nestled inside the egg pendant

In Auckland, New Zealand, a 32-year-old thief has been apprehended after stealing and immediately swallowing a diamond-encrusted green Faberge egg from an upscale jewelry establishment. The luxury item, valued at approximately US$20,000, was ingested by the culprit in an apparent attempt to conceal the evidence.

The incident occurred late last week, with authorities successfully arresting the man before he could escape the premises. According to a statement released by police on Wednesday, they have assigned an officer to monitor the thief while they patiently wait for the valuable item to pass through his digestive system naturally.

"At this stage the pendant has not been recovered," confirmed law enforcement officials in their official communication.

The stolen piece is a special edition locket inspired by the James Bond film "Octopussy," which features a plot centered around the theft of a rare Faberge egg. An online description details the exquisite craftsmanship: "The exterior of the egg closely follows the design of the Faberge egg featured in the film Octopussy, with a beautiful 18k gold lattice framework which is delicately set with blue sapphires and white diamonds in a floral-like design."

Adding to its uniqueness, the egg contains a small golden octopus nestled inside.

The House of Faberge, originating from Russia, achieved worldwide recognition in the late 19th century for creating elaborate Easter eggs adorned with gold and precious gemstones.