Naples’ Tesoro di San Gennaro creates photographic fingerprints of 10,000 gems to deter thieves after Louvre jewellery theft.
NAPLES: A Naples museum is protecting its priceless collection through forensic mapping that creates unique photographic fingerprints for each gem.
The Tesoro di San Gennaro has spent over a decade photographing more than 10,000 stones using microscopes and specialised equipment.
This process certifies each gem’s unique characteristics to create forensic fingerprints comparable to DNA identification.
The museum’s method offers rare insight into security measures following the Louvre jewellery theft that left other European institutions reluctant to discuss protocols.
Former investigative gemology professor Ciro Paolillo stated the Louvre theft might have been prevented with similar mapping.
He explained that mapped stones would be identifiable even if cut and presented for international certification.
Reuters could not verify whether the Louvre had conducted comparable analysis of its stolen jewels.
Louvre director Laurence des Cars had repeatedly warned about the museum’s inadequate security before the robbery.
The San Gennaro treasures represent seven centuries of donations from popes, royals and wealthy patrons.
This sacred collection includes a diamond and emerald cross from Joseph Bonaparte, Napoleon’s brother and former King of Naples.
Located beside Naples’ cathedral, the museum safeguards over 21,000 pieces including a gem-encrusted mitre and precious necklace.
Museum director Francesca Ummarino estimates the mitre and necklace alone are worth approximately 100 million euros.
The collection also features 53 silver busts weighing around 200 kilograms each from the 17th and 18th centuries.
Paolillo’s team traced precious metals to specific workshops in Naples’ historic Goldsmiths’ Quarter through metallurgical analysis.
Modern standardized alloys make such origin tracing impossible for contemporary pieces.
Paolillo noted thieves would likely melt down stolen metal artworks, destroying their identifiable characteristics.
Unlike most Italian religious artefacts, this collection belongs to the people of Naples rather than the Vatican or state.
The treasure was stored in a bank vault for nearly 30 years following an attempted Camorra mafia robbery in 1975.
It has remained secure since reopening to the public in 2003 despite Naples’ high crime rates.
Museum vice president Riccardo Carafa d’Andria described comprehensive security including alarmed displays and 24-hour military patrols.
He attributed the collection’s safety both to security measures and Neapolitans’ deep devotion to their patron saint.
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