Jewels Stolen from Louvre in Shocking Heist Worth More Than $100 Million: Prosecutor By Liam Quinn

The jewels stolen in a shocking heist at the Louvre Museum were worth an estimated €88 million — the equivalent of more than $100 million USD, authorities said.

Extremely valuable jewels linked to France’s bygone monarchy were taken from the iconic Paris museum in a stunning daytime heist that lasted just seven minutes on Sunday, Oct. 19.

A matching emerald necklace and emerald earrings worn by Marie-Louise, the second wife of Napoleon, as well as a tiara and large brooch that belonged to Empress Eugénie were among the jewelry stolen, according to Reuters.

The tiara was reportedly later found damaged outside the museum, per the outlet.

The thieves used small chainsaws and angle grinders to get to the targeted room while the museum was open, according to AFP.

Reuters reported that Paris public prosecutor Laure Beccuau noted that the thieves, who have still not been caught, got away with jewels worth an estimated €88 million ($102.63 million).

“It is important to remember that this damage is an economic damage, but it is nothing compared to the historical damage caused by this theft,” Beccuau said, per the outlet.

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A sapphire tiara, a sapphire necklace and a single sapphire earring worn by Queen Marie-Amélie and Queen Hortense, as well as a brooch known as the “reliquary brooch,” were also stolen, according to Reuters.

Authorities believe four people were involved in the heist: two wearing yellow vests posing as workers at the museum, and two others riding scooters, Le Parisien reported. The investigation and manhunt remain ongoing with some experts warning that after 48 hours, it’s unlikely the stolen jewels will be recovered.

According to ABC News, Laurence des Cars, the director of the Louvre, will appear before French lawmakers on Wednesday, Oct. 22, to answer questions regarding the museum’s security and what went wrong over the weekend.