Treasure divers find antique ring off Florida Keys

[June 24, 2011]  KEY WEST, Fla. (AP) -- Treasure divers searching for a 17th-century sunken Spanish galleon off the Florida Keys say they have found an antique emerald ring worth an estimated $500,000.

The gold ring has a rectangular cut estimated at 10 karats. It's believed to be from the Nuestra Senora de Atocha that sank off the Florida Keys during a 1622 hurricane.

Divers from Mel Fisher's Treasures found the ring Thursday about 35 miles from Key West.

A spokesperson said the ring's estimated value is based on the stone's 2.7- by 2.5-centimeter size and the value of other emeralds from Atocha.

Also found were two silver spoons and other artifacts. A 40-inch gold rosary was found in March and a gold bar in April.

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Online:

Mel Fisher Treasures: http://www.melfisher.com/

[Associated Press]

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