Shopping: The unique offer of Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter

Nov 23 2009 By Anuji Varma

The timepiece is proving a popular Christmas present.

“If there’s a watch that’s selling well it’s the Gucci. It’s an affordable price and it looks good too.”

Shoppers looking for something a little bit unusual can head to Artfull Expression where there is a range of designers, from David-Louis, to Lora Leedham, who has made pieces for Camilla Parker-Bowles.

Just because she has created items for royalty does not mean her prices are out of reach. Prices range from £28 to £160 and the pieces of jewellery are all unique.

Chainmaker G H Moore & Son, which has been in the quarter since 1965, is run by George, aged 69, and his son Darren, 42.

The pair specialise in creating chains, which can be made to specific requests.

Darren said: “There aren’t many chainmakers around, especially within the Quarter.

“We are unique to the area and you wouldn’t find this sort of service on the high street. The customer can pick a design they want and the material they would like it in and we will make it. The majority of chains sold are imported and usually made in Italy using a machine.

“We can make it to suit a budget too.”

The store also stocks jewellery in titanium and palladium, which is a cheaper alternative to gold and platinum.

If you are after something other than jewellery then head to St Paul’s Gallery where it is possible to invest in some fantastic artwork.

Not only does the gallery sell paintings by various artists, but it is also known for having the world’s largest collection of album covers, from Dire Straits to AC/DC, to Led Zeppelin and David Bowie.

Neil Robinson, aged 45, who runs the gallery, said: “We had the Peter Blake Stanley Road print eight years ago and it was worth £300 – now it can fetch up to £7,000.

“There are people out there who want to invest in art and there are those who enjoy it. We sell many album covers here that collectors want to buy so there is plenty of choice.

“It could also make a really special Christmas or birthday present.”

Once you have done your shopping you can head to Vertu Bar to indulge in some tapas.

The restaurant/bar has been open for more than two years and serves up some great dishes in a friendly atmosphere too.

Another attraction is the Jewellery Quarter loyalty card scheme, which allows shoppers to save money at participating stores.

The Christmas fun begins on Thursday when the lights will be switched by the winner of the three-legged Santa race. But festive offers will start tomorrow.

* Log on to www.jewelleryquarter.net for more information about where to shop in the area, and offers available with the loyalty card