Inquest declares gold ring found in County Durham treasure

Detectorist Craig Watson made the find while out on land in the Framwellgate Moor area of Durham back in October 2021, an inquest heard.

Experts dated the jewellery and believe it was made between 1500 and 1700, meaning it could be more than 500 years old.

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Details of the find, made on October 12, 2021, were heard at an inquest at Crook Coroners Court this month.

Mr Watson said: “On the 17th of October 2021 I was metal detecting on arable land in the Framwellgate Moor area of County Durham where I found a gold finger ring.”

“I confirm my permission to be on the land.”

Crook Coroners Court (Image: NORTHERN ECHO)

A report by the Finds Liaison Officer for Durham, Darlington and Teesside Benjamin Westwood on the request of the British Museum dated the ring to between 1500 and 1700.

Senior Assistant Coroner Crispin Oliver said he was happy to conclude that the item is treasure.

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A treasure inquest is held when a museum wishes to acquire a find of “potential treasure”.

As set out by the British Museum, the finding will be valued by a committee, which recommends a price for the treasure trove to the Secretary of State.

The museum will then be invoiced for the recommended amount and the finder will be paid.