A historic diamond necklace once owned by Egypt’s royal family has been stolen from a museum in Vienna, Austria, after two men reportedly targeted the valuable jewelry during a daring daytime theft.
The necklace, featuring 673 diamonds totaling about 200 carats, was being displayed as part of an exhibition celebrating the work of French luxury jeweler Van Cleef & Arpels.
The piece has a remarkable royal history. It was made for Queen Nazli of Egypt and was reportedly worn during celebrations surrounding the 1939 wedding of her daughter, Princess Fawzia, to Iran’s Crown Prince Mohammad Reza Pahlavi.
Unlike an ordinary piece of expensive jewelry, the necklace carries significant historical importance because of its connection to Egypt’s former royal family.
The necklace was on loan to the Vienna museum when it was taken. Investigators are now examining surveillance footage and gathering evidence as they work to identify and locate the suspects.
The thieves reportedly broke into the display and escaped with the necklace, raising questions about museum security and the protection of historically significant objects on international loan.
The necklace had previously appeared on the international auction market, reportedly selling for millions of dollars. Its documented history and distinctive design could make it difficult to sell legitimately.
Authorities are now focused on recovering the piece before it can be dismantled or moved through the black market.
The theft is another reminder of the challenges museums face in protecting rare jewelry and cultural treasures. For Egypt’s heritage, the loss is particularly significant because the necklace represents a tangible connection to the country’s royal past.
As the investigation continues, Austrian authorities are appealing for information that could help lead them to the stolen treasure and those responsible.
