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Sunday 22/02/2026

Fabergé Pendant Recovered After Alleged Theft in Auckland Jewelry Store

Fabergé egg pendant with diamonds and sapphires on gold chain
Sofia RomanoSofia Romano

In This Article

HIGHLIGHTS

  • A New Zealand man allegedly swallowed a Fabergé egg pendant valued at NZ$33,585 during a theft at Partridge Jewellers in Auckland.
  • The pendant, inspired by the James Bond film "Octopussy," was recovered naturally after six days of police monitoring.
  • The suspect, charged with theft, is set to appear in court on 8 December and faces additional charges for stealing an iPad and other items.
  • The pendant, one of only 50 made, features 60 white diamonds, 15 blue sapphires, and an 18-carat gold octopus inside.
  • Police have maintained a duty of care, monitoring the suspect's condition while in custody.

In a bizarre turn of events, New Zealand police have successfully recovered a Fabergé egg pendant allegedly swallowed by a man during a theft at Partridge Jewellers in Auckland. The pendant, valued at NZ$33,585 ($19,300), was retrieved naturally after six days of meticulous monitoring by law enforcement.

The 32-year-old suspect, whose identity remains undisclosed, was apprehended on 28 November shortly after the alleged incident. The pendant, inspired by the 1983 James Bond film "Octopussy," is a limited-edition piece adorned with 60 white diamonds and 15 blue sapphires. It opens to reveal an 18-carat gold octopus, a nod to the film's jewel-smuggling plot.

Police Monitoring and Recovery

Following his arrest, the suspect was placed under constant surveillance to ensure the safe recovery of the pendant. Inspector Grae Anderson emphasized the police's duty of care, stating, "Given this man is in police custody, we have a duty of care to continue monitoring him given the circumstances of what has occurred."

The pendant was eventually expelled without medical intervention, as confirmed by a police spokesperson. A photograph released by authorities shows the pendant intact, still attached to its gold chain and price tag.

Legal Proceedings and Additional Charges

The suspect is scheduled to appear in Auckland District Court on 8 December. During a prior court appearance on 29 November, he did not enter a plea to the theft charge. In addition to the pendant theft, he faces charges for allegedly stealing an iPad from the same store and other items from a private residence.

Cultural and Historical Significance

Fabergé, a jeweler with a storied history dating back over two centuries, is renowned for its exquisite eggs crafted from precious metals and gems. The pendant in question is one of only 50 made, highlighting its rarity and cultural significance.

WHAT THIS MIGHT MEAN

As the legal proceedings unfold, the suspect's court appearance on 8 December will be pivotal in determining the outcome of the case. If convicted, he could face significant penalties, given the high value of the stolen item and the additional charges. The incident also underscores the challenges faced by retailers in safeguarding valuable merchandise, potentially prompting increased security measures in high-end jewelry stores.

The recovery of the pendant without medical intervention is a testament to the patience and diligence of the New Zealand police. This case may serve as a precedent for handling similar incidents in the future, balancing the need for evidence recovery with the duty of care owed to individuals in custody.