In brief
Alex Davis, a dive instructor in Barbados, unearthed a nearly 50-year-old graduation ring belonging to a McMaster University alumnus and successfully returned it to its rightful owner.
In October, while diving off Barbados's southern coast, diver Alex Davis set out for a routine exploration with his metal detector. Known for uncovering everyday debris like bottle caps and nails, Davis was in search of something far more significant that day. As he combed the ocean floor, a familiar sound lured him closer—a low beep indicating the presence of metal.Curiosity piqued, Davis began to shift rocks away from his discovery. Sure enough, out popped a gold ring, sparkling beneath the sandy surface. The ring, inscribed with the year 1965 and marked with McMaster University insignia, was a clear indication of a past life. It featured a deep maroon stone at its center, thought to be a garnet—reflecting the university's colors.Recalling the moment, Davis humorously likened himself to Sméagol from 'The Lord of the Rings,' enchanted by the sight of the ring. Upon returning home, he observed initials inscribed inside the band: FMP. Determined to reunite the ring with its owner, he reached out to McMaster University’s alumni association for assistance.What ensued was a heartwarming investigation, as Davis worked collaboratively with the association to trace the ring back to its rightful owner, bringing closure to a nearly five-decade-old mystery. A remarkable tale of persistence led to joy for both the diver and the alumni—demonstrating the power of chance encounters beneath the waves.
