Birmingham is set to host a month-long festival in May 2027 that celebrates over 250 years of jewellery making in the city.
A series of exhibitions, activities and workshops featuring the work of world-class creatives will take place during the Birmingham Jewellery Biennial next year.
One year on since Birmingham was named as a World Craft City for Jewellery and Allied Trades by the World Crafts Council, organisers have announced that the celebration will take place across the Jewellery Quarter and wider city centre throughout May 2027.
Set against the backdrop of Birmingham’s centuries-long reputation of producing some of the world’s most well-known pieces, visitors will be able to learn the rich history of jewellery making, discover and buy new pieces and even design their own, in the same place that produced The FA Cup, Wimbledon trophies, The Queen’s Birthday Honours medals and Beyonce’s diamond-encrusted stilettos.
Co-founded by Jewellery Quarter Development Trust and Birmingham City University, Birmingham Jewellery Biennial is set to become the UK’s leading festival dedicated to the art, innovation, and heritage of jewellery.
In the months leading up to May 2027, there will be opportunities for creatives and businesses to become part of the celebrations.
An initial UK-wide open call will give jewellery artists the chance to feature in a flagship exhibition which will remain in situ throughout the festival, as well as awarding the winners with monetary prizes. Further details will be available via the Birmingham Jewellery Biennial website.
The concept of the Biennial was part of Birmingham’s successful bid to be recognised as a World Craft City, placing it alongside just eight other European cities and cultural hotspots from around the world including Fabriano in Italy, Jaipur in India and Kyoto in Japan.
Birmingham received the accolade in May 2025 after a bid was submitted by the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust and Birmingham City University and supported by Birmingham City Council and the Goldsmiths Company.
Alex Nicholson Evans, festival director and city curator, said: “We have some extremely exciting plans in the works for this much anticipated showcase of design and craftsmanship.
“I have no doubts that this will be a major new cultural event for the country, putting a spotlight on the incredible creative talent we have here in the UK, and there is no better home for it than the Jewellery Quarter, Birmingham.”
Ben, chief executive of The National Association of Jewellers, added: “The jewellery industry is a proud and vital part of the UK’s cultural and creative landscape – rich in heritage, driven by innovation, and defined by exceptional skill.
“This national festival is not about a glimpse behind the scenes; it is a full celebration and recognition of the people and businesses behind the work – those who design, make, and craft pieces that mark life’s most meaningful moments.
“From jewellery and silverware to watches and allied crafts, it shines a light on the creativity, craftsmanship, and enduring value our industry brings to society.”
Birmingham Jewellery Biennial will take place across Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter and the wider city from 1-31 May 2027.
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