Jewelry made of bakelite. Pins, bracelets, necklaces, earrings and more from the sassy classic 1930's and 1940's.
Many jewelry items from the 1940's were made from the "new" plastic called bakelite. Frivolous and funky, colorful and chunky, Bakelite jewelry can be tons of fun to own and wear.
There's something almost magical about all the great colors and the way they mix together so wonderfully.
Whether on an arm loaded with striking bangles or a whimsical pin on a jacket lapel, nothing quite competes with Bakelite in terms of novelty and eye appeal.
Plain bangles in red, green, yellow and black make a striking presentation. Many rings, pins and necklaces with less elaborate carving provide an amazing burst of color to a finger, collar or neckline. And for more drama, group several pieces together for a smashing effect.
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To test an item by feeling it, consider the weight in comparison to other plastics. Bakelite feels heavier, more dense.
The smell test endures as the most widely used method. To accomplish this, rub the item vigorously with your thumb then take a whiff before it cools. A distinct chemical odor lingers with most Bakelite. Some people have better results heating the piece with hot water before smelling.
Eying a piece can give some good clues too. Generally produced in the 1930s, most jewelry items have some wear, scratches and a patina that new pieces don't have.
You can even try the scrubbing bubbles test, but be aware that if a piece is laquered, it might test negative. To employ this test, simply take a small amount of scrubbing bubble bathroom cleaner (the kind with no bleach) and rub it on the inside of the item with a cotton swab. If it's Bakelite, the swab should turn yellow.
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