This Gold and Emerald Cross was found inside of an ornate gold box that was sealed shut due to its centuries under water. Along with this magnificent Cross was a five-foot long chain and two spectacular emerald rings. Discovered on the site known as the "cabin wreck" while exploring the 1715 Fleet, the Cross may well have been meant as a gift to Elizabeth Farnese, Duchess of Palma, from King Philip V of Spain. After his previous wife died in 1714, Philip began to woo Elizabeth. She eventually consented, but would not consumate the marriage until she recieved her weight in gold and jewels . Already behind schedule, the 1715 Fleet was forced to delay even further so that fine jewlery and other wedding gifts could be delivered to the ships headed back to Europe. Due to turbulent weather, unfortunately, the ships carrying many of the new Queen's jewels sunk well before they reached European soil.

Artifact #: 54861A
Shipwreck: 1715 Fleet, Recovered in 2003.
Dimensions: 11.4cm L x 4cm W

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