The Birmingham Jewellery Quarter has become known as 'The Golden Heart of Britain' for a reason. Over time, it has been recognised as an anchor point of the European Route of Industrial Heritage, with over 200 conserved, listed buildings.
Amongst the shops, next to 'Manna Jewellers', lies a hidden gem. Before the manufacture of the elegant, refined jewellery that we see today, The Birmingham Jewellery Quarter was responsible for a vast amount of the production of coins and metals, that were made in preserved working environments, such as this one.
In spite of it's retained Victorian charm and remarkable heritage, the 'Golden Heart of Britain' has a lively and spirited dynamic, attracting a wide range of modern and young talent. This makes the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter a must-visit spot, as well as the 'Museum of the Jewellery Quarter' being a popular destination.
The Birmingham Jewellery Quarter has a vast history tha spans over 250 years. Due to industrial demand and technological advancements, the city of Birmingham prospered throughout the Industrial Revolution.
As trade work developed, Birmingham adopted the nickname, 'The City of a Thousand Trades'. This transpired from the increased manufacture of goods such as coins, metals, toys and the production of 75% of the world's pens. In 1780, there were only 28 recorded jewellers in the city, and by around 1800, as many as 400 were recorded.
In 1820, however, the number of jewellers reduced significantly due to economic problems. Despite this decline, the jewellery industry soon found its feet again. It is esimated that by 1850, a huge proportion of the jewellery in London was still produced in Birmngham. By the 1900s, the Jewellery Quarter had employed over 30,000 people.
Today, the 'Golden Heart of Britain' is home to over 700 jewellery businesses and independant retailers. It is a designated conservation area, aiding in maintaining a unique and historic environment in England, as well as being responsible or 40% of all gold and jewel products manufactured in the UK. It's vibrant, living atmosphere, as well as the abundance of heritage and history in the area is responsible for the Birmingham Jewellery Quarter being a well-renowned and loved part of England.