Birmingham is known for many trades, but only the Jewellery Quarter lives up to its name. For centuries, only the finest jewellers in the country could be found here. And even today, they say that the area is responsible for 40% of all jewellery made in the UK—making it Europe’s largest concentration of businesses involved in the trade.
But only now has Birmingham been officially recognised for its “rich heritage, skilled artisans, creative designers, proud makers, and innovative contributions to the jewellery industry.” It’s now a designated World Craft City by the World Crafts Council. Just one of eight in Europe to receive the prestigious title (which includes Stoke-on-Trent for ceramics and the Outer Hebrides in Scotland for Harris Tweed).
How did Birmingham become a World Craft City?
Led by the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust and Birmingham City University, a bid for World Craft City status—supported by Birmingham City Council and the Goldsmiths Company—was submitted in October 2024. After a rigorous application and judging process, an international panel of judges visited Birmingham in April 2025.
During their visit, judges toured the School of Jewellery (which was established in 1890 on Vittoria Street), where they took part in a silversmithing workshop, viewed the craftsmanship of current students, and attended a special presentation. They also stopped by the Birmingham Assay Office—the world’s largest, which hallmarks 12 million items a year—Cooksongold, and the historic Coffin Works.
“This title celebrates the city’s rich heritage, skilled artisans, creative designers, proud makers, and innovative contributions to the jewellery industry,” said World Crafts Council President, Saad Al-Qaddumi. “It is a reflection of Birmingham’s continued leadership in heritage craftsmanship and its role in shaping the future of the jewellery trade and creative economy across the UK and globally.”
What does this mean for Birmingham?
“This is a moment of real pride – not just for the Jewellery Quarter, but for Birmingham and the West Midlands,” said Matthew Bott, Chair, Jewellery Quarter Development Trust. “We’ve always known the value of what happens here, and now the world does too. Our thanks go to everyone who helped us reach this point, and we look forward to working with partners old and new to build on this incredible foundation.”
It’s not just about pride, though. Being a World Craft City opens the door to future funding and opportunities, as well as attracting the world’s best talent. First on the agenda, however, is the launch of the Birmingham Jewellery Biennial, the UK’s jewellery festival, which will include open studios, jewellery fairs, heritage tours, a trade conference and a flagship exhibition. To learn more about the Birmingham Jewellery Biennial, you can head here.