Thieves steal $17K device from jewelry supply store

MIAMI (WSVN) -- Two thieves are at large after they stole a pricey piece of equipment from a jewelry supply store, but the entire robbery was caught on camera.

Surveillance cameras were rolling as the suspects walked into Rosenthal Jewelers' Supply along busy Northeast First Street in Downtown Miami, Monday morning. "I asked them can I help them, so the one gentleman says to me, 'I need you to show me a watch case. I'm looking for one for my wife," said a store clerk who identified herself as "Monica."

As Monica helped one suspect, the other can be seen talking on his cell phone. "I have to open the window and step in, so my back is against the store," Monica said.

While Monica's back was turned, the man on the phone slid open the back of a glass case inside the store. He can be seen on camera as he casually walked away from the case and sat down in a chair.

After a few seconds passed, the man walked back to the case, grabbed a precious metal analyzing gun and slipped it into his shopping bag.

The theft occurred in less than 10 seconds. "These types of thefts, distraction thefts, are very well-coordinated and planned out," said Raphael Adouth, the owner of Rosenthal Jewelers' Supply. "They looked at it, they know exactly what they want. They go in, and they take it, and they have to work quickly."

Monday's robbery may strike some as odd, since the store does not sell jewelry; the store only sells supplies that jewelers need. Monica said, "Who comes in the store are those who are jewelers, so they're looking for certain equipment."

The store also sells security cameras. However, the device the crooks stole, called an XRF machine, is worth about $17,000. Adouth said, "It's primarily used for gold, platinum, silver, rhodium. Jewelry."

The thieves did not try to hide their faces from the surveillance cameras, so the store owners are hoping someone will recognize them and bring them to justice. "Either they're from out of town or they're irresponsible, or they didn't do their homework very thoroughly," said Adouth.

Rosenthal Jewelers' Supply has been in Downtown Miami since 1968, and this is the first time the business has ever been robbed.

If you recognize these crooks, call Miami-Dade Crime Stoppers at 305-471-TIPS. Remember, you can always remain anonymous, and you may be eligible for a reward.

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