Paris Heist and Hope in Asia

So they hit the Louvre and made off with historic gems. I don’t know why I get so sentimental about these things. And it’s not just jewelry; I get similarly peeved when activists throw ketchup on great works of art.

This time, with royal tiaras, necklaces, and brooches once worn by Empress Eugénie and other Napoleonic-era figures among the stolen items, one can’t help but feel a sense of tragedy at the thought of such important pieces being dismantled and lost forever. Then again, if they’re found, the whole episode would only add to their lore and mystique. Let’s hope it comes to that.

On a personal note, I was looking forward to seeing the Louvre’s full collection of jewels when I visit Paris next week for the CIBJO Congress. I still am — and it’ll be interesting to see what measures the museum takes in response to the heist, and which jewels remain on display. I’m somewhat hopeful we’ll still have full access, given it’s my first visit.

This blog first appeared in the October 13 Pressing Matters Executive Memo. Read the full memo here, Pressing Matters, featuring the following sections:

• Deep Dive: Signs of Life in China

• Chart Check: India Diamond Trade Improves

• What I’m Reading / Watching: Diamonds Are Whatever

• What I'm Looking Forward To

• The News That Matters

• The Week Ahead

• Pic of the Week: The Glowing Rose

Images

• Top: Vue de la Galerie d'Apollon where the French Crown Jewels are held. (Musée du Louvre / Antoine Mongodin)

• Bottom: The Glowing Rose, which Sotheby's will present for sale at its High Jewelry Sale in Geneva on November 12. (Sotheby's)