Family heirloom stolen during St Albans burglary

Family heirloom stolen during burglary in Battlefield Road (Image: Archant)

The gold ring in a snake design has an emerald stone for the nose and two diamonds for the eyes, and was due to be passed on to the next generation of the family before it was stolen.

It was taken between 9.20am and 6.45pm on Friday, January 29, from a property in Battlefield Road. The offenders forced entry via a patio door before escaping with a haul of items.

Also stolen was a silver octagon-shaped ring with emerald stone, a gold ring with interlocking stones - one blue, one diamond - and diamonds in the gold band with at least one diamond is missing.

Other items taken included silver Swarovski earring, a Seiko wristwatch, a trombone, a black Sony DSC-HX100 digital camera, an Apple iPad and a black Sony LED television

Family heirloom stolen during burglary in Battlefield Road (Image: Archant)

Investigating officer Det Con Zoe Austwick from the St Albans Local Crime Unit said: “The rings stolen are very identifiable as they are so unique and all are very precious to the family.

“The gold snake ring in particular holds significant sentimental value as it has long been a family heirloom, which dates back to 1840. It was due to be passed to the next generation of the family shortly and so obviously the victims are keen for its return.

“I would like to hear from anyone who has been offered these items for sale or knows of their whereabouts. Equally, anyone who witnessed any suspicious or unusual activity in the area around the time of the burglary should contact me. Any information, however seemingly insignificant, could prove very useful to my investigation.”

Anyone with any information in relation to this incident is asked to contact Det Con Austwick via the non-emergency number 101, or contact the independent crime-fighting charity Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.