Gem Buildings: Jewel of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter
Discover the Gem Buildings—historic diamond cutting works embodying Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter heritage and architectural charm.
The Gem Buildings, located on Key Hill in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter, are iconic early 20th-century diamond cutting and polishing works. Built in 1913 by architects Wood & Kendrick for Ginder & Ginder, these buildings showcase a modern industrial design for their era and reflect the area’s rich heritage as a global centre for jewellery manufacturing. They stand near the historic Key Hill Cemetery, embedding them in a landscape steeped in local history and craftsmanship.
A brief summary to Gem Buildings
- Key Hill, Birmingham, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during weekdays to experience the area’s working workshops and artisan activity.
- Combine your visit with a walk through nearby Key Hill Cemetery to explore Birmingham’s local history.
- Bring a camera to capture the distinctive red brick industrial architecture and street scenes.
- Check for any heritage tours or open days in the Jewellery Quarter for deeper insights.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Train and Tram
From Birmingham New Street Station, take a 10-15 minute tram ride on the West Midlands Metro towards Wolverhampton, alighting at Jewellery Quarter stop. The Gem Buildings are a 5-minute walk from the tram stop. Trams run every 6-12 minutes; a single ticket costs approximately £2.50.
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Bus
Several bus routes serve the Jewellery Quarter area from Birmingham city centre, including routes 8, 16, and 74. The journey takes about 15-20 minutes depending on traffic. Bus tickets cost around £2.50. Note that some stops require a short uphill walk on cobbled streets.
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Car
Driving to the Gem Buildings is possible but parking is limited. Nearby public car parks such as the Hockley car park offer hourly rates from £2.50. Expect a 10-15 minute drive from central Birmingham. The area has narrow streets and some restrictions, so plan accordingly.
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Walking
From Birmingham city centre, a 25-30 minute walk along steep and cobbled streets leads to the Jewellery Quarter and the Gem Buildings. The route offers urban exploration but may be challenging for those with mobility issues.
Gem Buildings location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Gem Buildings
Architectural Significance of the Gem Buildings
Constructed in 1913, the Gem Buildings embody the industrial spirit and architectural innovation of early 20th-century Birmingham. Designed by Wood & Kendrick, these buildings were commissioned by Ginder & Ginder, diamond cutters and polishers who required a functional yet modern workspace. The design was notably progressive for its time, featuring red brick construction typical of the Jewellery Quarter’s industrial aesthetic, combined with large windows to maximize natural light for intricate craftsmanship.The Heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Trade
The Gem Buildings represent a pivotal era when Birmingham was a global hub for jewellery production. The Jewellery Quarter thrived through the 18th and 19th centuries, expanding into the early 20th century with buildings like the Gem Buildings supporting the diamond cutting and polishing trades. This area was home to numerous skilled artisans and manufacturers, many of whom lived and worked in close proximity, fostering a vibrant community centered on metalwork and jewellery.Context within Key Hill and the Jewellery Quarter
Situated on Key Hill, the Gem Buildings are adjacent to the historic Key Hill Cemetery, a site established in 1835 to accommodate Birmingham’s growing population and its needs. The cemetery and surrounding buildings together tell a story of the city’s industrial and social development. The Jewellery Quarter itself is renowned for its dense concentration of heritage buildings, workshops, and factories that have shaped Birmingham’s identity as the 'City of a Thousand Trades.'Preservation and Revitalization Efforts
The Gem Buildings, like many in the Jewellery Quarter, have been recognized for their historical and architectural value. Recent heritage funding initiatives aim to restore and revitalize these landmarks, ensuring their preservation for future generations. These efforts not only protect the physical structures but also celebrate the cultural legacy of Birmingham’s jewellery industry, supporting ongoing artisan activities and community engagement.Visual and Cultural Experience
Visitors to the Gem Buildings can appreciate the blend of historic industrial architecture with the lively atmosphere of the Jewellery Quarter. The red brick façades, large industrial windows, and proximity to other heritage sites create a distinctive urban landscape. This area offers a unique glimpse into the craftsmanship and industrial heritage that continues to influence Birmingham’s cultural fabric.Legacy and Continuing Influence
The Gem Buildings stand as a testament to Birmingham’s enduring jewellery trade, which remains active today. They symbolize the city’s blend of tradition and innovation, reflecting how historic industrial spaces can be adapted for modern use while honoring their past. The Jewellery Quarter continues to attract artisans, entrepreneurs, and visitors interested in its rich history and vibrant creative community.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Gem Buildings
0.0 km
Historic Gem Buildings on Key Hill showcase Birmingham's rich jewelry industry heritage and early 20th-century industrial architecture.
The Jewellery Quarter Birmingham
0.5 km
Birmingham's glittering historic heart where Victorian workshops craft timeless jewels amid cobblestone charm and creative revival.
Chamberlain Clock
0.6 km
An elegant Edwardian clock tower at the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, built in 1903 as a memorial to Joseph Chamberlain and recently restored to its former glory.
The Best of Birmingham Trail
1.4 km
Explore Birmingham’s rich heritage through 20 iconic sites on this free, immersive city centre trail blending history, art, and urban renewal.
Chamberlain Memorial
1.5 km
A striking neo-Gothic monument in Birmingham’s Chamberlain Square honoring Joseph Chamberlain’s legacy of public service and city transformation.
The River
1.6 km
Iconic bronze fountain sculpture in Birmingham’s Victoria Square, blending art, poetry, and urban life since 1994.
Workers Memorial
1.6 km
A solemn landmark in Birmingham honoring workers lost to workplace tragedy and inspiring the fight for safer labor conditions.
Historic England
1.9 km
Uncover Birmingham's rich history and heritage at Historic England, a cornerstone of cultural preservation and education in the heart of the city.
Ozzy the Bull
1.9 km
Experience the vibrant spirit of Birmingham at Ozzy the Bull, a stunning landmark celebrating the city's rich culture and heritage.
The Cube
2.0 km
Discover The Cube in Birmingham – a unique blend of leisure, dining, and entertainment that creates unforgettable experiences for every visitor.
Bullring & Grand Central
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Explore Birmingham's Bullring & Grand Central: a shopping and dining paradise that blends modern architecture with an unforgettable experience.
Aston Cross Clock Tower
2.1 km
A distinguished Victorian clock tower in Birmingham symbolizing historic community pride and architectural heritage.
Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum
2.1 km
Unleash your curiosity at Thinktank Birmingham Science Museum, where science comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging experiences for all ages.
Millennium Point
2.1 km
Explore Millennium Point, Birmingham's architectural marvel and vibrant venue for conferences, exhibitions, and community events.
Kids' Park
2.1 km
Discover Kids' Park in Birmingham, where adventure meets learning in a family-friendly environment filled with fun activities and lush greenery.
Unmissable attractions to see
Jewellery Quarter
0.3 km
Historic Birmingham district where craftsmanship meets culture in a vibrant, preserved industrial setting.
The Jewellery Quarter
0.4 km
Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter: a vibrant hub of craftsmanship, culture, and creativity since the 18th century.
J. W. Evans Silver Factory
0.8 km
Step into Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter to explore the remarkably preserved J. W. Evans Silver Factory, a century-old industrial treasure of silversmithing heritage.
St Paul's Square
0.9 km
Birmingham’s last Georgian square, blending historic elegance with vibrant modern culture in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
Pen Museum
0.9 km
Discover where 75% of the world's pen nibs were made in a beautifully restored Victorian factory.
St. Paul's Church
0.9 km
Explore St. Paul's Church, a Georgian architectural gem and historic spiritual heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Newhall Hill
1.0 km
Discover Newhall Hill’s scenic views and historic charm in Birmingham’s vibrant Soho & Jewellery Quarter district.
Springhill Interchange Birmingham
1.0 km
Explore Springhill Interchange, a vibrant hub in Birmingham, where culture, history, and modern urban life converge for an unforgettable experience.
Soho House Museum
1.1 km
Explore the elegant Georgian home of Matthew Boulton, a pioneer of the Industrial Revolution and hub of the Lunar Society in Birmingham.
New hall Hill - Historical Signature!
1.1 km
Explore the historical charm of New Hall Hill in Birmingham, a captivating tourist attraction rich in heritage and local culture.
Clue HQ Birmingham - The Live Escape Game
1.1 km
Experience thrilling, immersive escape rooms in Birmingham’s iconic railway arches, blending puzzles, technology, and storytelling for unforgettable group adventures.
The Coffin Works
1.2 km
A Victorian coffin factory preserved as a time-capsule museum, revealing the craftsmanship behind royal funerals and industrial Birmingham.
St Chad's Catholic Cathedral
1.2 km
A Gothic Revival masterpiece and spiritual heart of Birmingham, home to the relics of St Chad and a symbol of Catholic resurgence in England.
Lock 3, Farmers Bridge Locks
1.2 km
Discover the historic Lock 3 within Birmingham’s iconic Farmers Bridge Locks, a captivating canal engineering marvel in the city centre.
Gunmakers Arms
1.3 km
A historic corner pub in Birmingham’s Gun Quarter, once a payhouse for gunmakers and later a community arts and brewery hub, now closed but deeply woven into the city’s industrial story.
Essential places to dine
Kopitiam
0.5 km
Discover authentic Malaysian street food and warm family hospitality in Birmingham’s vibrant Jewellery Quarter at Kopitiam.
The Wilderness
0.6 km
Experience bold British fine dining with innovative tasting menus in a moody, industrial-chic setting at Birmingham’s Wilderness.
24 Carat Bistro
0.6 km
Hidden gem serving slow-cooked goat curry and Punjabi fusion in Birmingham's historic Jewelry Quarter.
The Rolling Mill
0.6 km
A vibrant gastropub in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending traditional British charm with modern culinary delights and lively atmosphere.
Decorum Restaurant Birmingham
0.6 km
Elegant steakhouse in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter blending refined dining with stylish ambiance and cultural charm.
Cappadocia Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in Birmingham’s Cappadocia Restaurant on Frederick Street.
The Button Factory
0.7 km
A stylish blend of industrial heritage and modern dining, The Button Factory offers vibrant food, drinks, and rooftop vibes in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Restaurant Folium
0.8 km
Intimate modern British fine dining with seasonal tasting menus in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Lasan Indian Restaurant & Cocktail Bar
0.9 km
Experience Birmingham’s premier fine dining Indian restaurant blending authentic flavors with modern culinary artistry in the stylish Jewellery Quarter.
Pasta Di Piazza
0.9 km
Authentic Italian dining with generous portions and warm service in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter.
Somewhere in Brum
1.0 km
A vibrant bar and brunch spot in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter, blending diverse cuisine with a lively social atmosphere.
Modern Restaurant & Cafee
1.0 km
A vibrant modern dining spot in Birmingham offering diverse cuisine and a cozy atmosphere, perfect for small parties and late-night meals.
Locanta italian restaurant
1.0 km
Authentic Italian dining in a historic Victorian setting with fresh seafood, handmade pasta, fine wines, and live music in Birmingham’s city centre.
Cucina Rustica
1.0 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors crafted with passion in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter at Cucina Rustica.
Opheem
1.2 km
Experience Michelin-starred Indian cuisine reimagined with British seasonal flair in Birmingham’s elegant Opheem.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Gingermegs Vintage
0.2 km
Discover timeless style and impeccable vintage finds at Gingermegs Vintage, Birmingham’s boutique for authentic retro fashion and antiques.
Design Centre
0.5 km
Family-crafted diamonds and luxury watches in Birmingham's historic Jewellery Quarter since 1977—timeless elegance for life's milestones.
Arnett Creations - Unique Quality Jewellery
0.5 km
Discover bespoke Sterling Silver and hallmarked gold jewellery in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where expert craftsmanship meets personalized service at Arnett Creations.
A&N Jewellery
0.5 km
Discover family-crafted silver treasures and bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's legendary Jewellery Quarter, where 50 years of expertise meets timeless elegance.
Adamas Antique Jewellery
0.5 km
A boutique Jewellery Quarter shop offering curated antique and estate jewels with specialist appraisal and bespoke care.
Top Jewellery UK
0.5 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Top Jewellery, where family expertise crafts diamonds, gold, and silver into timeless treasures.
Quarter Jewellery
0.6 km
Independent jeweller on Warstone Lane offering commissions, valuations and attentive, workshop‑minded service in the heart of Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter.
Artfull Expression
0.6 km
Discover independent jewelry artistry in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter at Artfull Expression, where unique handcrafted designs blend historic craft with modern flair.
SACET
0.6 km
Ethical elegance awaits at SACET, Birmingham's sustainable jewellery gem in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter—where timeless craft meets modern conscience.
Ivy and Rose Gift Shop
0.6 km
Discover handmade UK treasures at Ivy and Rose, Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter boutique for unique jewelry, candles, and artisanal gifts from local makers. (162 characters)
Buff Jewellery
0.6 km
Timeless minimalist jewellery handcrafted in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—personalised birthstone designs blending sentiment, subtlety, and modern British elegance for everyday sparkle.
Fine Jewellery Collections & Bespoke Design Service
0.9 km
Discover bespoke brilliance in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, where custom gems and fine collections craft heirlooms with personal stories etched in gold.
Designer Exchange
1.6 km
Discover authenticated preloved luxury fashion in Birmingham’s elegant Victorian Great Western Arcade.
Community Gift Shop
1.6 km
Discover unique products and support diverse entrepreneurs at Birmingham’s Black Pounds Project Community Gift Shop in the historic Great Western Arcade.
The Alice Boutique
1.6 km
Discover timeless vintage-inspired fashion in a charming boutique nestled within Birmingham’s historic Great Western Arcade.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Jewellers Arms
0.3 km
Traditional Birmingham boozer in the Jewellery Quarter: exceptional real ales, hearty pies, and cosy fireside chats since the 1830s.
The Rose Villa Tavern
0.6 km
Classic British pub in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter, serving hearty meals, diverse drinks, and warm hospitality amid historic streets.
The Red Lion
0.6 km
Traditional Hockley pub fusing heritage, modern art, and hearty British fare in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter gem on lively Warstone Lane.
Lucky7
0.8 km
Precision mixology meets playful vibes in Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter—a relaxed haven for cocktail lovers seeking crafted perfection.
1000 Trades
0.8 km
A vibrant neighbourhood bar celebrating Birmingham’s industrial heritage with craft beers, local food, and a quirky artistic vibe.
40 St Paul's
0.8 km
Discover Birmingham's hidden gin speakeasy: 100+ global varieties, intimate vibes, and masterful cocktails in the heart of the Jewellery Quarter.
The Pig & Tail
0.9 km
Victorian charm with a punchy, colourful gastropub vibe — British small plates, rotating craft beer and lively evenings in the Jewellery Quarter.
Actress & Bishop
1.0 km
Two floors, live music every night and a split personality — cosy downstairs, sweaty upstairs — in the Jewellery Quarter.
Queen's Arms birmingham
1.0 km
Traditional Jewellery Quarter pub pouring fine ales in a quirky, welcoming space with games, books, and hearty grub amid Birmingham's historic heart. (162 characters)
Malt House
1.4 km
A vibrant British pub in Birmingham city centre offering classic dishes, lively atmosphere, and a great spot for social gatherings near the arena.
Madeleine
1.5 km
An elegant, salon‑style cocktail bar in The Grand Hotel — famed for refined afternoon tea and meticulous cocktails in a dramatic, over‑sized parlour.
The Alchemist Colmore Row
1.5 km
Experience Birmingham’s iconic Grand building transformed into a theatrical cocktail haven blending molecular magic with vibrant city nightlife.
The Distillery
1.5 km
Birmingham's canal-side gin distillery pub: rotisserie feasts, wood-fired pizzas, house gins, and terrace vibes from brunch to late-night drinks.
All Bar One Brindleyplace
1.5 km
Stylish canal-side wine bar and cocktail lounge in Birmingham’s vibrant Westside, perfect for bottomless brunches and lively evenings.
Theatrix Birmingham
1.5 km
Historic charm meets vibrant nightlife at Theatrix Birmingham, a stylish multi-floor bar and entertainment venue in the city centre.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Historic
- Unique
- Scenic
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Industrial
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
