Why the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter is a real gem
The Birmingham Jewellery Quarter is a mecca for people with a passion for all things precious and sparkly and the Birmingham Mail recently noted that the area is affectionately dubbed Birmingham’s gem.
An article featured in the publication stated: “It’s not just a play on words, it is a gem – and for a variety of fascinating reasons. A proposed World Heritage Site, this unique area, which dates back over 250 years, is a designated Conservation Area which has more than 200 buildings listed and is home to Birmingham’s last remaining Georgian Square.”
Meanwhile, it is not only the quarter’s history that makes it interesting. The area is “still very much alive, boasting hundreds of established jewellery businesses which attract global interest from millions of people”, the news source noted.
It added that the Jewellery Quarter is home to Europe’s largest concentration of jewellery trade businesses and it produces 40 per cent of all jewellery made in Britain.
The article went on to point out that precious metals are known to have been worked in Birmingham from as early as the 14th century. However, it was not until 1660 that the industry really took off.
“It was on the back of King Charles II returning from exile in France after the Civil War and bringing home a newly acquired penchant for fancy buttons and shoe buckles to other royal and affluent circles.,” the publication added.
It suggested that one of the reasons why the quarter has remained so successful is because of the breadth of skills that the city’s workforce possesses. These talents have been passed down from generation to generation.
These days, consumers on the lookout for new diamond rings and other items can head to the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter to take a look at the products on offer. While they are in the area, they can also explore its museums, bars and other attractions.
