Bakelite Jewelry

Bakelite is a substance which is rather similar to plastic. However it has some disinct differences, for example bakelite gives off a distinctive smell when it is in contact with warm or hot water, it also makes a clinking noise (which plastic doesn't).

Bakelite was invented by Leo Baekeland in 1909 and was used mainly in industrial items. It is a castable, fire resistant and can easily be carved. These qualities helped bakelite become popular in the late 1920's and 1930's. Bakelite was widely used during the art deco period for many things, such as door handles, but really took on a life of it's own when used in jewelry.

Bakelite's use in jewelry became widespread as the substance is not limited by shape or appearace. At times bakelite can appear almost organic, looking like wood, turtle shell and similar. Bakelite could also be made using bright and vibrant colors, when used in bangles it was often laminated in various intense colors. The most common colors in bakelite jewelry are green (pea) and butterscotch and are therefore the cheapest.

Unfortunately as the popularity of bakelite increases the number of fakes also increases. Unfortunately it can be difficult to tell the original 1930's article from the recently produced fake. As mentioned earlier you will be able to tell if the item is truly bakelite by the smell (similar to camphor) and sound but guessing the age can be more difficult. The best way to test bakelite is to dip a cotton budd/swab in some household cleaning fluid and rub it gently on a small area of the bakelite item in question. The patina should then be visible, as a slightly yellow stain, on the bud/swab. It is important that the cleaning fluid be removed from the bakelite immediately and it may be better tested in an place which is not normally visible (such as the back of a bracelet or bangle).

Bakelite jewelry is now extremely collectible so it is well worth checking through any old boxes of costume jewelry. You never know you might just find something of real value. Happy hunting.

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