BAKELITE

Bakelite is castable,fire resistant plastic that was invented by Leo Baekeland in 1909. It was originally used for industrial purposes,until jewelry makers found it's light weight made it a perfect pick for designing and manufacturing inexpensive bracelets,rings,pins and other jewelry. Around 1930 Bakelite jewelry became popular. There was many assortment of colors. CoCo Chanel was one famous designer who offered Bakelite jewelry and accessories.You can tell if the item you have is Bakelite two ways,one is to tip a cotton swab in 409 household cleaner and touch a small are of the piece,such a back that won't be visible when worn,if the piece is vintage Bakelite the accumulated patina will show as a yellow stain on the cotton swab. Rinse the cleaner off the tested spot right away. Another way is to place the jewelry in hot water then remove and sniff,warmed Bakelite smells like camphor. So there you have it,happy hunting.