University News Last updated 27 November 2014
HRH The Prince of Wales and The Duchess of Cornwall visited Birmingham City University’s School of Jewellery this week, gaining first hand insight into the quality of creative talent produced by its staff, students and graduates.
Touring the School as part of a visit to Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, the Royal Highnesses left with a glittering keepsake after alumnus Jack Row presented them with limited edition handcrafted silver fountain pens.
The Prince and Duchess arrived together and were met by a group of senior figures from the City and the University, including Vice-Chancellor Professor Cliff Allan, Head of the School of Jewellery Gaynor Andrews, and Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Design and Media, Professor David Roberts.
After viewing a range of student work, including jewellery, clocks and watches, the Duchess toured the School to meet staff and students while the Prince held a private meeting to discuss the Jewellery Quarter's regeneration, in which his charity has been involved.
Staff and students gathered on the floors high above the School’s atrium at the end of the tour to hear Professor Allan thank the Duchess for her visit and highlight the uniqueness of the education provided by the School. Applauding the talented students it produces he then introduced the royal guest to award winning artisan and goldsmith Jack Row, who graduated in 2009 and continues to work in Birmingham’s renowned Jewellery Quarter.
Jack said: “It was a great privilege to meet both the Prince of Wales and the Duchess of Cornwall in the prestigious surroundings of the School of Jewellery. It was even more of a pleasure to present them with matching silver pens, which are hand-made in the Jewellery Quarter, on behalf of Birmingham City University and the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust.”
Gaynor Andrews added: "I echo Jack’s comments. It was a true honour to share the work of our students and Alumni with the Prince of Wales and Duchess of Cornwall. They were both clearly impressed with the diversity of courses within the School of Jewellery and the quality produced.
“The Duchess enjoyed a full tour, trying her hand at gemstone identification through a microscope and showing great interest in all our students’ activity. Our successful graduates certainly impressed her with their exquisite products on show in the exhibition and the Duchess was delighted to receive the pair of exquisite hand crafted pens as a commemorative gift to mark their visit.
“I am very grateful to the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust for suggesting we host this prestigious event."