By WYATTE GRANTHAM-PHILIPS and R.J. RICO Associated Press
Just days after a stunning heist at the Louvre Museum, speculation is growing around where the lavish, stolen jewels that once adorned France's royals might end up. Some warn the artifacts, valued at over $100 million, could be melted or broken into parts — and later sold as pieces of new jewelry. Still, such pieces are often sold for a fraction of the value of what was fully stolen. And it isn't a simple process. Others believe the characteristics of the historical jewels might make them difficult to sell. Museums have increasingly faced a rash of similar thefts over the years.
By LAURIE KELLMAN and JOHN LEICESTER Associated Press
Experts say France's royal jewels may be gone forever after a daring heist at the Louvre. On Sunday, thieves stole eight pieces, including crowns and necklaces, in just four minutes. These jewels, dating back to the 16th century, were significant symbols of France's wealth and power. Experts believe the gems are likely being dismantled and sold off. The theft has left the French government scrambling to address security concerns at the museum. The heist is being called "the heist of the decade" and has sparked a race against time for authorities to recover the treasures.
President Joe Biden and his family were given tens of thousands of dollars in gifts from foreign leaders in 2023. First lady Jill Biden received the single most expensive present: a $20,000 diamond from India's leader. That's according to an annual accounting published by the State Department. The 7.5-carat diamond from Prime Minister Narendra Modi was easily the most costly gift presented to any member of the first family in 2023. She also received a brooch valued at $14,063 from the Ukrainian ambassador to the U.S. and a bracelet, brooch and photograph album worth $4,510 from the president and first lady of Egypt.
