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OMCA Releases Image of Historic Artifact Stolen in January 9 Burglary

The Oakland Museum of California suffered a burglary on Monday, January 9, resulting in the theft of a historical Gold Rush-era quartz and gold jewelry box from its permanent collection. Hi-resolution images of the artifact are available at museumca.org/pressroom for download. Director Lori Fogarty is available for media interviews today from 2:30 to 3:30pm at the Oakland Museum of California.

A reward of $12,000 is offered for the safe recovery of the stolen artifact. The reward is subject to certain terms and conditions required by the insurer, including that the reward claimant not have any involvement in the theft or any previous or post theft complicity.

Jewelry Box Description:
The historic jewelry box, was made between 1869 and 1878 by A. Andrews, a San Francisco goldsmith, and is signed. The artifact features a rectangular moulded top and base that rests on four feet formed of four miniature female figures depicting allegorical California. It is seven inches in height; nine inches on length; and seven inches in depth. The top pilasters and mouldings are of veined gold quartz in tones of grey and cream with veining of gold. The interior of the top is recessed and engraved in full relief with scene of the early days of the Union and Central Pacific Railroads, mounted Native Americans, herds of buffalo, and a train of cars. The gold quartz is cut and set in mosaic fashion in the top of the lid, exterior and the sides are gold veined quartz.

The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the Oakland Police Department’s Major Crimes Section at (510) 238-3951 or the TIP LINE at 510-777-2805. Questions about the Jewel Casket artifact or the Oakland Museum of California should be directed to 510-318-8460 or [email protected].