They are probably not selling on the black market but it was an order from a private collector

Gold is up, it's unfortunately that simple. If these aren't found very quickly they'll be melted because there is no way they can be fenced as they are. Fuck these thieves.

There is no way these were stolen for bullion value. There are a thousand easier targets if that was the goal.

They absolutely can be sold on the black market. You underestimate the hubris of many billionaires, and the next tier as well.

I would guess not 100s. The artifacts are priceless in their original form, but most likely in order to sell them they will need to re-cut the stones and melt down the precious metals.

Unless the artifacts were stolen-to-order for a client who wants them as-is. It happens, paintings get stolen and it's not like those can be melted down.

Or stolen for ransom. That might fetch the largest payout of all.

Brokering the deal and arranging the transfer of funds would have a very high risk.

Yes, stolen-to-order seems like the most plausible explanation.