Suspicious Heist at High-End Jewelry Store
A startling theft has shaken Auckland’s luxury jewelry scene: a 32-year-old man allegedly stole a limited-edition pendant from a high-end jeweler by swallowing it on the spot. The pendant — a collector’s piece by Fabergé, inspired by the 1983 James Bond film — was reported missing after staff at the store raised an alarm. Police responded within minutes and arrested the suspect inside the shop.
During his first court appearance, the man did not enter a plea. He remains in custody under constant medical supervision while authorities wait for nature to run its course and hope the pendant may pass, allowing recovery.
The Thriller-Worthy Pendant: What Makes It Special
The piece at the center of this bizarre case wasn’t just expensive — it was rare. The so-called “Octopussy Egg” pendant was crafted from 18-karat yellow gold, coated with green guilloché enamel, and set with dozens of diamonds and sapphires. Inside the locket lies a tiny 18k-gold octopus with black-diamond eyes — a nod to the villainous symbol from the Bond film that inspired the design.
Valued at roughly NZ$33,585, the pendant ranks among the most exclusive pieces ever sold by the jeweler. Its extravagant value and cinematic-style appearance make it a collector’s dream — and, in this case, the motivation behind a one-of-a-kind crime.
What Happens Next: Police Waiting on Evidence
As the suspect remains in custody, police have said the pendant still hasn’t been recovered. With no visible evidence so far, the investigation relies heavily on the natural passage of time. Officers have placed him under 24/7 observation to ensure his safety while the item remains unaccounted for.
A second court hearing is scheduled for early December, where prosecutors are expected to update the status of the investigation. Meanwhile, the case continues to draw intense public and media interest due to its unusual — almost cinematic — nature.
