From handmade brilliance to global recognition – Birmingham has been officially awarded World Craft City Status.

The status has been awarded for Birmingham’s jewellery industry and allied trades, clustered in the famous Jewellery Quarter.

It makes Birmingham 1 of 8 cities in Europe who have received the honour, which will give our creative industries international recognition.

Led by the Jewellery Quarter Development Trust and co-applicants Birmingham City University, a bid for World Craft City status was supported by Birmingham City Council and the Goldsmiths Company and submitted in October 2024.

A rigorous application and judging process took place, with an international panel of judges visiting Birmingham in April 2025.

Speaking on the day of the announcement, Shabana said:

I am delighted to see Birmingham has been recognised for its creative credentials – being named a World Craft City.

 

The honour is a moment of real pride, not just for the Jewellery Quarter, but all of the city.

 

It puts a spotlight on the creative and manufacturing industry in the heart of my constituency, with the world-renowned skills that make us the city of one thousand trades.

 

I hope this incredible achievement serves as an even bigger platform for Birmingham to show the world what we have to offer.