Minutes later, Mr. Gentry receives the Gertrude diamond to evaluate. He goes through his measurements, taking his time. He repeats the process a second time and then replaces the necklace in the box.
“Are you ready to sign the paperwork so this necklace can be sent out to its new owners?” I ask.
“I’m sorry, Lord Sandridge. There’s a problem with it.”
“What do you mean?”
“It’s a fake.”
“How can that be?”
“I have no idea, but these are lab-grown diamonds—not real ones.”
“Are you absolutely certain?” I ask.
“One hundred percent.” He nods.
“Hmm. Hold on for a minute. If you don’t mind, I’d like you to look at one more necklace before we jump to any conclusions.”
“I’d be happy to.”
“Guard, please hand Mr. Gentry the remaining box.”
The guard steps forward with a blue velvet box, containing a similar diamond necklace. He hands it to Mr. Gentry, who immediately begins evaluating it.
After completing his examination, Mr. Gentry says, “This is the authentic Gertrude diamond. No question.”
“Thank you, Mr. Gentry. That’s all we’ll be needing from you today.” He begins packing his equipment.
I turn to the guard, saying, “Please bring in the gentleman who provided the necklace in the blue box.”
The guard nods and moves to the door, motioning for someone to join us. As we’re waiting, Mr. Broadmoor stands, saying, “Excuse me, I’m going to the restroom.”
“I’m sorry. That will have to wait. Please retake your seat. No one is leaving the room right now, except for Mr. Gentry,” I say.
“How dare you talk to me like that?” Mr. Broadmoor quips.
I ignore him.
Mr. Gentry takes the opportunity to make a hasty exit just as three police officers escort a man in handcuffs into the room.
“When you were arrested, did you have the necklace in the blue box in your possession?” I ask.
He nods.
“How did you come to possess it?”
“I was one of the guards at the auction. I traded the one in the black box for the one in the blue box after the auction.”
“Why did you do that?”
“Two men hired me to make the exchange.”
“Which two men hired you?”
“Mr. Broadmoor and Mr. Barclay.”
“How do you know them?”
