Birmingham has officially been recognised as a World Craft City, a prestigious international honour that cements the city’s place among global giants of craftsmanship like Kyoto and Jaipur. This milestone moment marks a powerful affirmation of the Jewellery Quarter’s rich heritage, skilled artisans, and thriving creative community.
A Legacy Forged in Gold
For centuries, Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter has been the beating heart of British jewellery-making. With over 700 independent jewellery businesses, it produces an estimated 40% of the UK’s jewellery. However, this new status isn’t just about history; it’s about how the Quarter continues to innovate, adapt, and inspire.
From hand-engravers and stone-setters to forward-thinking designers and cutting-edge educators, the Quarter is alive with creative energy. It’s home to legendary institutions such as the School of Jewellery and the Birmingham Assay Office, guardians of craftsmanship that ensure quality and authenticity still sit at the core of everything produced here.
Global Recognition, Local Pride
To be named a World Craft City, Birmingham underwent a rigorous assessment by an international panel of experts. They explored the city’s commitment to traditional skills, its dedication to education and training, and its ability to balance heritage with modernity. The Jewellery Quarter stood out as a unique ecosystem where a shared pride unites makers, institutions, and the wider community in their craft.
This title makes Birmingham one of only a handful of cities across Europe to receive this global recognition—and it’s the second city in the UK to do so, after Stoke-on-Trent. It places the city firmly on the map as a destination for world-class craftsmanship, innovation, and cultural exchange.
What This Means for Birmingham
World Craft City status is more than just a badge of honour. It’s a catalyst for opportunity, one that will attract tourism, investment, and international partnerships. Plans are already underway for a biennial craft celebration, including open studios, exhibitions, heritage tours, and trade events that will showcase both established makers and rising stars.
It’s also a powerful platform for local makers and small businesses to reach new audiences, build new relationships, and continue to grow in an environment that values authenticity and skill.
Voices from the heart of the city
Matthew Bott, Chair of the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust, summed up the collective pride:
“This is a moment of real pride … we’ve always known the value of what happens here, and now the world does too”
Cllr Saima Suleman, Cabinet Member for Culture & Tourism, celebrated the potential to attract investment, tourism, and international partnerships:
“Being named a World Craft City is brilliant recognition for Birmingham and especially for the Jewellery Quarter”
Saad Al‑Qaddumi, President of the World Crafts Council, praised the city’s skilled artisans and innovative contributions:
“…rich heritage, skilled artisans, creative designers, proud makers, and innovative contributions to the jewellery industry”
A Future Built by Makers
This is a proud moment for Birmingham, but it’s also just the beginning. The Jewellery Quarter’s recognition as a World Craft City shines a spotlight on the incredible talent, passion, and resilience of its makers. It reminds us that craft is not just about objects, it’s about identity, legacy, and the stories we pass on.
To every jeweller, engraver, polisher, designer, student, teacher, and supporter who makes up this remarkable community, this recognition belongs to you.
Birmingham didn’t just earn this title. It crafted it.