Birmingham: A Family Legacy in a World Craft City
Birmingham Jewellery Quarter
As someone whose family has worked in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, the recent recognition of the city as a World Craft City is both a personal and communal triumph.
This prestigious title, awarded by the UNESCO-affiliated World Crafts Council, places Birmingham alongside global craft hubs like Kyoto and Jaipur. It’s a testament to the city’s enduring commitment to craftsmanship and innovation, and I’m proud to say I am from Birmingham.
A Rich Tapestry of Jewellery Craftsmanship
Birmingham’s association with skilled trades dates back to the 18th century, when it earned the moniker “the first manufacturing town in the world” . Unlike other industrial centres focused on mass production, Birmingham thrived on a diverse array of specialised trades. The Jewellery Quarter, in particular, became a nucleus for artisans, producing a significant portion of the UK’s jewellery and housing over 800 businesses today .
This heritage is not just historical but living. Institutions like Birmingham City University’s School of Jewellery, established in 1890, continue to nurture new generations of craftsmen and women . The school’s involvement was pivotal in the city’s bid for World Craft City status, showcasing the seamless blend of tradition and contemporary design that defines Birmingham’s craft scene.
The Significance of World Craft City Status for Birmingham
Achieving the World Craft City designation is more than an accolade; it’s an affirmation of Birmingham’s global standing in the craft community. The rigorous selection process involved an international panel visiting key sites, including the School of Jewellery and the Birmingham Assay Office, to assess the city’s commitment to preserving and advancing its craft heritage .
This recognition is expected to bolster tourism, attract international partnerships, and provide new opportunities for local artisans. Plans are already underway to launch the Birmingham Jewellery Biennial, envisioned as the UK’s premier jewellery festival, further cementing the city’s status as a craft capital .
Jewellery Stories with royal connections
Birmingham’s craft legacy is interwoven with compelling stories and notable figures. The city’s artisans have long been celebrated for their ingenuity, from pioneering the industrial steam engine to creating intricate jewellery pieces that have adorned individuals worldwide .
The Jewellery Quarter has attracted a host of celebrities and dignitaries over the years, drawn by its unique blend of history and craftsmanship. Royal connections are particularly noteworthy; Queen Victoria granted Birmingham city status in 1889, acknowledging its industrial significance . More recently, members of the royal family have visited the area, highlighting its ongoing importance to the nation’s cultural and economic fabric.
A personal connection to the jewellery quarter
For my family, Birmingham’s recognition as a World Craft City is deeply personal. My mother, who was a diamond dealer and attended the Birmingham School of Jewellery, my cousins have contributed to the city’s rich tapestry of craftsmanship, working in the bustling workshops of the Jewellery Quarter. This accolade not only honours the city’s artisans but also pays tribute to the countless families like mine whose lives are intertwined with Birmingham’s craft heritage.
As Birmingham embarks on this new chapter, the World Craft City status serves as both a celebration of its past and a beacon for its future. It’s an invitation to the world to explore, appreciate, and participate in the city’s ongoing story of craftsmanship and creativity.
