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A truly ancient sapphire, St. Edward’s, is at the center of the Maltese cross on top.

The gem, which has Maltese cross faceted at its base, was first sold by Christie's in 1918 at a London auction where residents sold precious household items to help the war effort.

Wrote Jim: “It took me several minutes to convince her that affixed beneath my ribbons and shooting badges was a Fire Service badge, shaped like a Maltese cross.”

The Knights trace their history to the 11th-century Crusades and are known for the aristocratic lineage of their members, their fancy, fringed uniforms, and the big Maltese cross that adorns their liturgical robes.

They wear bright purple garments, decorated with traditional Gozitan handmade lace, and adorned with intricate Maltese cross pendants.