When you’re on the lookout for diamond jewellery, there’s really only one place to go and that’s the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter. For more than two centuries, it has been home to some of the world’s most highly skilled jewellery makers and goldsmiths.
Meanwhile, since the opening of a range of retail outlets in the 1970s and in subsequent decades, it has become a mecca for consumers hunting for beautiful gems.
Plenty of shops
If you’re to find your ideal rings, bracelets and other products, it’s important that you have enough choice and you’ll certainly not be stuck for options in this bejewelled area of Birmingham. Whether you want an engagement ring, some beautiful earrings or anything else, you can peruse a vast array of options in a range of different jewellery shops.
Seeing the items first hand means you can get a completely accurate idea of what they look and feel like, meaning the products you end up with will be perfect for you.
Make a real trip of it
However, it’s not only the shops that stand out in the Jewellery Quarter. If you travel to this part of the city, you’ll also be able to take advantage of lots of other attractions. This is great if you’re heading to the area with your friends or partner.
You can indulge in the ultimate retail therapy by purchasing fabulous jewellery and then relax and enjoy the sights and sounds of the quarter. Ideally, you’ll be able to stay over in one of the local hotels so you can sample the quarter by day and by night.
Feeling hungry?
When you get peckish, you can take your pick from a range of great eateries. For example, the Rectory Bar & Restaurant is a superb place to unwind and get your fill of tasty grub, all washed down with beverages of your choice. Located in St Paul’s Square, it overlooks St Paul’s Church and if stylish, modern surroundings are what you’re after, this could be the place for you.
Meanwhile, for a taste of something more exotic, Henry’s Cantonese Restaurant might be ideal. This eatery serves delicious Chinese cuisine in authentic oriental surroundings and has been popular since opening 20 years ago.
Some night life
There are also plenty of bars for you to check out, including The Jam House and The Red Lion. The former venue is atmospheric and could be perfect if you fancy some live music, particularly of the funk or jazz variety. Meanwhile, the latter is more traditional in feel and offers entertainment including pub quizzes and comedy clubs.
A little culture
It would be a shame to visit the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter without checking out some of the museums and art galleries on offer. The Royal Birmingham Society of Artists Gallery is located off St Paul’s Square and it offers a range of exhibitions, workshops and demonstrations. Meanwhile, St Paul’s Gallery on Northwood Street specialises in music-related artwork and artefacts.
The Museum of the Jewellery Quarter is also well worth a look and you can enjoy a guided tour around a real jewellery factory that’s little changed since the early part of the last century.