You never know what Treasures you might find while Metal Detecting. I think that is part of the lure and joy to the hobby. If interested in getting started with the adventures, check out MW’s Six Questions with Six Avid Metal Detectorists, providing thoughts on the ‘best metal detector’ to purchase. It certainly doesn’t have to be anything expensive and can be lots of fun. What ‘History’ might you discover hidden beneath the earth?
In the case of Ted Seaton, he found an extraordinary jewel while metal detecting….
Here’s the quick ‘spotlight’ on the Treasure at the Yorkshire Museum: The Middleham Jewel!
In 1985, while metal detecting casually along a path for horses near Middleham Castle (Northern England home of Richard III), Ted Seaton discovered what is now called the Middleham Jewel. This Jewel dates back to the late 15th century. It is an exquisite gold pendant set with a large blue sapphire-which is believed to represent heaven.
The pendant is beautifully and skillfully designed. The obverse includes a scene of the Trinity and Crucifixion of Jesus. The reverse of the pendant depicts the scene of the Nativity. There are figures of fifteen saints around the frame, and there is also a sliding panel revealing a small void within the jewel. This was found to hold tiny pieces of silk and gold thread.
The location where the jewel was found, (near Middleham Castle), and the remarkable quality of the jewel, leads many to believe it was owned by someone within the royal family. Perhaps someone in close relation to Richard III.
Its value is around 3 million dollars and is now on display at the Yorkshire Museum.
So what lies hidden out there for you to find? Let us know what you discover!
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In case you missed them- MW Spotlight #5: Can you Solve the Cipher and Claim the Treasure, MW Spotlight #6: Top Ten Locations to Find Valuable Gemstones, and MW Spotlight #7: The Ruby Hunt of the Midwest: