An 18-carat ring dating back to 1890 was stolen from a man in Westminster after he was approached by a woman.
The man was drinking in The Crown pub in Brewer Street on Wednesday, February 15 at around 7pm when the female suspect spoke to him.
After spending some time talking, they left the pub and the woman hugged the victim before saying goodbye.
Shortly after he realised his ring, which had belonged to his grandfather, was gone.
Detective Constable Gareth Arthur said: “The ring is of huge sentimental value to the victim. It has been in his family for many years.
“I would appeal to anyone with information regarding the woman, or who was in the Brewer Street area, to contact us.”
The suspect is believed to be Italian and is described as white, in her mid 30s, around 5ft 4ins with blonde hair.
She was wearing a black furry coat with a belt and a high collar.
Anyone with information is asked to call police in Westminster on 101 or tweet @MetCC.
Police advice
Police issued advice for people spending time in crowded areas:
"When in crowded areas, officers would advise people to be aware of pickpockets. Keep your wallets and purses close to you at all times. Be wary of staged distractions such as street performers and street gamblers if you are jostled, bumped, hugged or crowded by anyone, consider that a pickpocket may be in action. If your pocket is picked, call out immediately for assistance and warn others."
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