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Diver Uncovers Long-Lost Graduation Ring After Nearly 50 Years

A thrilling underwater discovery leads to a heartfelt reunion with a vintage ring.

By Hank SandersSource: nytimes.com1 min read

In brief

A Barbados-based dive instructor uncovers a significant piece of history while diving, sparking a touching reunion with the original owner’s family.

In a remarkable turn of events, Alex Davis, a diving instructor based in Barbados, recently unearthed a 1965 McMaster University graduation ring that had been submerged in the ocean for almost half a century. The discovery occurred on a serene October morning, when Davis went diving with his metal detector, a tool he routinely uses in hopes of finding treasures beneath the waves. The day began like any other, probing the sandy ocean floor for remnants of the past. But on this occasion, as Davis maneuvered through the water and listened to the familiar beep of his detector, he felt an exhilarating rush. “I pull back two more large rocks,” he explained. “And as I pull back the third one, the sand settles, and right there, I see the ring.” The gold ring, adorned with the year “1965” and McMaster University’s emblem featuring an eagle, was immediately striking. A polished maroon stone, likely a garnet, accentuated the piece, reflecting the school’s colors. Excited by his discovery and echoing the fictional character Sméagol from 'The Lord of the Rings', Davis exclaimed, “I kind of had that moment.” Upon returning to shore and inspecting the find, Davis spotted the FMP initials engraved inside the band. Realizing this could lead him to the rightful owner, he reached out to McMaster University’s alumni association for help tracking down the individual linked to the ring. His adventurous spirit and dedication to returning lost items set the stage for a heartwarming reunion with a piece of cherished history.

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