University News Last updated 03 June
The dazzling technical skills, creativity, and passion of Birmingham City University’s iconic School of Jewellery (SoJ) have helped Birmingham secure a major global accolade.
Today, Birmingham has been recognised as a World Craft City after judges from the World Craft Council were wowed by the city’s “rich heritage, skilled artisans, creative designers, proud makers, and innovative contributions to the jewellery industry”.
Professor David Mba, Vice-Chancellor of Birmingham City University (BCU), said: “Being recognised as a World Craft City puts a global spotlight on the skills, creativity and community we have here in Birmingham.
“At the School of Jewellery, we already attract talented students and practitioners from across the world - but this recognition will help us go even further.
“It will strengthen our international reputation, open up new collaborations, and inspire even more promising students to come here to study, work, and create - a perfect example of our strategic ambition to develop the talent for tomorrow.”
Birmingham is now one of just eight sites in Europe to receive the prestigious designation from the World Crafts Council, a UNESCO-affiliated organisation.
The accolade is bestowed on places that demonstrate exceptional craft heritage, a strong maker community, and a clear commitment to developing craft into the future.
BCU’s SoJ offers extensive training, from foundational courses to advanced degrees in jewellery making, gemmology, and horology.
Lee Lapthorne, Head of College for Jewellery, Fashion and Textiles at BCU, described the award as a “stunning endorsement of Birmingham as a creative force”.
He added: “The School of Jewellery and Jewellery Quarter have long been home to some of the most talented artisans in the world, so this accolade for the city is well deserved.”
Led by the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust (JWDT) and co-applicants BCU, the bid for World Craft City status was supported by Birmingham City Council and the Goldsmiths Company.
A rigorous application and judging process took place, with an international panel of judges visiting Birmingham in April, including the SoJ’s Grade II-listed home in Vittoria Street.
There they took part in a silversmithing workshop, viewed the artistry and craftsmanship of students, and met representatives of some of the world-renowned jewellery companies nearby.
SoJ course leader Rebecca Skeels organised the three-day visit with the support of the JQDT.
“A lot of hard work went into making this a reality, so I’m delighted on behalf of the School of Jewellery, JQDT, and the city that they now have this accolade,” she said.
“To become a World Craft City for Jewellery is both prestigious and inspiring. I am sure it will remind the world just what a creative place Birmingham is.”
The World Craft City designation signifies a landmark moment for Birmingham and the wider West Midlands, placing the city’s historic Jewellery Quarter - home to an internationally renowned community of jewellers, makers, and creative businesses - firmly on the global stage.
World Crafts Council President Saad Al-Qaddumi said: “This title celebrates the city's rich heritage, skilled artisans, creative designers, proud makers, and innovative contributions to the jewellery industry.
“It is a reflection of Birmingham’s continued leadership in heritage craftsmanship and its role in shaping the future of the jewellery trade and creative economy across the UK and globally.”
World Craft City status opens the door to international partnerships, funding opportunities, and collaborative projects - not just for the Jewellery Quarter, but for the city and wider region.
Matthew Bott, Chair of the JQDT, said: “This is a moment of real pride - not just for the Jewellery Quarter, but for Birmingham and the West Midlands.
“We’ve always known the value of what happens here, and now the world does, too. Our thanks go to everyone who helped us reach this point, and we look forward to working with partners old and new to build on this incredible foundation.”
Cllr Saima Suleman, Birmingham City Council cabinet member for Digital, Culture, Heritage and Tourism, added: “Being named a World Craft City is brilliant recognition for Birmingham and especially for the Jewellery Quarter.
“The Jewellery Quarter has long been celebrated for its craftsmanship and innovation, and this designation recognises the area’s heritage and enduring excellence.
“This recognition will help bring new opportunities for investment, tourism, and international partnerships. We are proud to support the creative communities driving this forward and look forward to seeing how this recognition will positively shape the city’s future.”
With a history stretching back more than 250 years, the Jewellery Quarter boasts more than 600 businesses and employs more than 4,000 people.
Also home to the SoJ, which was established in 1890. it produces more than 40% of the UK’s jewellery and generating around £750m annually.