A year ago, Birmingham’s legendary Jewellery Quarter—an area responsible for 40% of all jewellery made in the UK—was designated ‘World Craft City’ status. Now, in recognition of its rich heritage, skilled artisans and innovation in jewellery, a month-long festival will celebrate the JQ in May 2027.
Celebrating over 250 years of jewellery making in the city, the Birmingham Jewellery Biennial will host an array of exhibitions, installations, activities and workshops—not only showing off the work of world-class creatives, but also providing you with the chance to make your very own jewellery every day.
You will also be able to learn the rich history of jewellery making, and buy new pieces, in the same place that produced the original FA Cup, Wimbledon trophies, The Queen’s Birthday Honours medals and Beyonce’s diamond-encrusted stilettos. In the lead-up, there will be opportunities to become part of the celebrations.
An initial UK-wide open call will give jewellery artists the chance to feature in a flagship exhibition which will remain in situ throughout the festival, as well as awarding the winners with monetary prizes. Further details will be available via the Birmingham Jewellery Biennial website soon.
“We have some extremely exciting plans in the works for this much-anticipated showcase of design and craftsmanship,” said Alex Nicholson Evans, Festival Director and City Curator. “I have no doubts that this will be a major new cultural event for the country, putting a spotlight on the incredible creative talent we have here in the UK, and there is no better home for it than the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham.”
What is the ‘World Craft City’ status?
The concept of the Biennial was part of Birmingham’s successful bid to be recognised as a ‘World Craft City’. It’s just one of eight in Europe to hold the prestigious title (including Stoke-on-Trent for ceramics and the Outer Hebrides in Scotland for Harris Tweed).
Following a rigorous judging process, including an international visit from an esteemed panel, Birmingham was awarded ‘World Craft City’ status for displaying exceptional craft heritage, a strong maker community, and a clear commitment to developing craft into the future. Birmingham received the accolade in May 2025.
Birmingham Jewellery Biennial will take place across Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter and the wider city from May 1 to 31, 2027.
