Toddler Discovers Precious Medieval Pendant in Field Valued at Millions

In May 2009, an unremarkable day became remarkable for four-year-old James Hyatt as he explored a field in Hockley, Essex, England, using his father’s metal detector. What began as an enjoyable pastime resulted in a remarkable archaeological find when the device started to emit a loud noise. James and his father, Jason Hyatt, dug down about six to eight inches into the ground, uncovering a diamond-shaped golden locket.

The locket, later referred to as the Hockley Pendant, is an invaluable golden reliquary thought to have been created in the early 16th century. Upon its discovery, its detailed craftsmanship attracted the interest of historians, showcasing engraved religious symbols and names potentially of religious importance, including Christ and a female figure resembling Mary or St. Helena. The names of the Magi were engraved on the locket, enhancing its religious significance. Following an inquest, it was officially designated as treasure and subsequently obtained by the British Museum in 2012, in accordance with the Treasure Act of 1996.

The Hockley Pendant was estimated to possess a value of up to 2.5 million British pounds and weighed roughly a third of an ounce, with a gold purity of 73%. It is thought to have represented a subtle yet potent expression of devotion, frequently worn by affluent individuals during the early 16th century for both ornamental and spiritual purposes.

Conservation efforts by Marilyn Hockey from the British Museum offered additional insights into the pendant’s background. Through careful work, the locket was ultimately opened, uncovering remnants of flax fibers within. It is theorized that the locket may have once contained a piece of the True Cross, believed to be the genuine cross of Jesus Christ, which St. Helena brought to Constantinople from the Holy Land.

The Hockley Pendant is now part of the British Museum’s permanent collection, where it continues to enthrall visitors. The museum’s acquisition also granted James Hyatt and the landowner a portion of the treasure’s worth, as stipulated by the Treasure Act.

This find not only fascinated treasure hunters but also underscored the connection between faith, history, and treasure seeking, reminding us of humanity’s enduring curiosity about uncovering hidden relics from the past.