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The Jewellery Quarter

For over 200 years Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter has been the home of some of the worlds most highly skilled goldsmiths and jewellery makers.

The advent of shops opening to the public is a recent phenomenon, with the majority of retail outlets springing up since the 1970’s. And now the area is widely known as a place for both the trade and public to browse and buy the finest products at the keenest prices.

Tradesmen worked from home, or in small workshops, and on the whole specialised in a particular craft. Many of these specialist craft and services complimented each other, strengthening the sense of community in the area and fostering a national and international respect for the industry in the area.

By 1861 over 7,000 people were engaged in the jewellery trade. The local jewellery industry grew out of the areas toy trade. At that time the toy trade included the manufacture of a wide range of small items made from steel, such as buttons, buckles and brooches and various trinkets. The nineteenth century saw a shift towards the manufacture of jewellery and buttons in the area.

The gold rushes in 19th century USA and Australia led to an increase in the supply and demand for jewellery with the Birmingham Assay Office being granted permission to hallmark gold-ware from 1824. As trade flourished, so the area developed with new streets, large residential properties built for manufacturers and the well-off, plus more and more terraces from which many of the tradesmen worked and/or lived in. The magnificent and compelling dwellings, workplaces, streets and alleyways which help to make the area such a magnet for visitors derives from this expansion of industry and craft. Less than 100 years ago up to 20,000 people were employed in the industry.

Since the post-war recession of the 1940’s and 1950’s however employment levels have fallen and stand at around 4,000 currently.

For two centuries the Jewellery Quarter existed as a trade and manufacturing area. The advent of shops opening to the public is a recent phenomenon, with the majority of retail outlets springing up since the 1970’s. And now the area is widely known as a place for both the trade and public to browse and buy the finest jewellery products at the keenest prices.

The Birmingham Mint From 1786 to 1850 Matthew Boulton’s mint operated in the area. The minting of coins was then continued after the Heaton company succeeded Boulton’s operation.

In 1860 the Birmingham Mint succeeded the Heaton operation and is still active in Icknield Street.

 

The Best Jewellery Shops at The Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham

The Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham offers a magnificent variety of some of the most popular jewellery shops in Birmingham. Birmingham’s jewellery quarter is the home to some of the most gifted and experienced jewellers in the UK who can provide their customers with exceptional jewellery pieces and services.

The Finest Jewellery Shops

The Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham has been established for over 200 years and provides a variety of popular jewellery shops. The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham is now widely recognised as the place to come for the finest jewellery shops in Birmingham. So if you’re looking to visit the best outlet for jewellers in the UK, you should definitely come to The Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham.

Jewellery Services

Whether you are looking to purchase a stunning jewellery piece for that special person in your life, repair an old watch or bracelet, have a jewellery insurance evaluation or are looking for certified diamonds, you should definitely visit the best jewellers in the UK at The Birmingham Jewellery Quarter.

Jewellery Shops and More

You can experience jewellery shops that are deep in culture and history and browse jewellery pieces from some of the most talented jewellers in the industry. As well as visiting some of the most popular jewellers in the UK to take a look at their range of diamond engagement rings, wedding rings, watches, earrings and so much more, you also have the choice of retail shops, pubs, hairdressers, cafes and restaurants – so you can shop until you drop, have a makeover, a bite to eat and refreshing drink.

All jewellers in The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham are hallmarked gold jewellers, and they have a wealth of experience in providing customers with exceptional jewellery pieces that are sure to impress. So visit The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham for the best jewellers in the UK. We’re confident that you won’t regret it.