Bakelite Jewellery Bangles

The Timeless Appeal of Vintage Bakelite Jewellery

In a world filled with mass-produced, cookie-cutter accessories, there's something truly special about owning a piece of vintage bakelite jewellery. Bakelite, the first synthetic plastic ever created, revolutionized the world of costume jewellery in the early 20th century. But despite its age, bakelite jewellery has stood the test of time and continues to captivate collectors and fashion enthusiasts alike.

History of Bakelite Jewellery

Bakelite was invented in 1907 by Leo Baekeland, a Belgian chemist, and quickly gained popularity for its durability and versatility. In the 1920s and 1930s, bakelite jewellery became a staple in women's fashion, with its bold colors and unique designs making a statement on both formal and casual occasions. From chunky bangles to intricate brooches, bakelite jewellery embodied the Art Deco aesthetic of the era. Bakelite is a type of plastic with fire resistant properties and was used initially used in industry. Although it was originally used for industrial purposes only, Bakelite soon became popular as it was a type of formable by casting plastic for jewellery. Part of the reason for its allure as a component for jewellery was its inexpensive cost and durability.

Why Bakelite for Jewellery Manufacture

One of the main reasons for the enduring appeal of bakelite jewellery is its distinct look and feel. Unlike modern plastics, bakelite has a warm, tactile quality that simply can't be replicated. Its rich, vibrant colors and marbled patterns have a depth and texture that exudes vintage charm. Additionally, bakelite is highly collectible due to its historical significance and scarcity – as production ceased in the 1940s, genuine bakelite pieces are now considered rare treasures.

Jewellers used Bakelite for creating inexpensive jewellery of a lightweight quality that was amenable to creating jewellery pieces of considerable size. Although other manufacturers began to produce plastics with a similar formula under various names, Bakelite remained popular for quite some time. Two of the more commonly used plastics that were comparable to Bakelite were Lucite and Celluloid. In fact, these two plastics were even lighter in weight than Bakelite, but they were quite similar in appearance.

Costume Jewellery Bangles in Bakelite

Colourful bracelets, plastic bangles, brooch pins, and fashion rings were crafted from this unique material for a growing market. As the years went by, more and more costume jewellery was produced using Bakelite. In fact, a change in the appearance of Bakelite in the 1930s and 1940s made Bakelite even more popular with jewellery makers. Specifically, the introduction of attractive color mixes allowed even more colorful jewellery pieces to be crafted for public sale.

Bakelite continued to be a popular choice among women looking for inexpensive yet attractive pieces of jewellery with which to adorn themselves. Today, pieces of Bakelite jewellery can fetch an amazingly expensive price if they are in excellent condition. The value of such pieces continues to remain steady due to their versatile appearance, durable nature and now antique vintage status.

How to Wear Bakelite Vintage Jewellery

Whether you're a seasoned collector or a newcomer to the world of vintage jewellery, there are countless ways to incorporate bakelite pieces into your wardrobe. Mix and match bakelite bangles with contemporary bracelets for a fun, eclectic look, or pair a bold bakelite necklace with a simple monochrome outfit to let the piece truly shine. From casual brunch dates to elegant evening affairs, bakelite jewellery adds a touch of old-world glamour to any ensemble.

Bakelite Test - Identify Real Bakelite

While there are many replicas and imitations on the market, true bakelite jewellery can be found at reputable antique stores, vintage fairs, and online auctions. Look for pieces with the distinct "Clunk" sound that genuine bakelite makes when tapped together, as well as the tell-tale signs of age such as patina and slight wear. Investing in a piece of bakelite jewellery is not only a fashion statement but also a piece of history that will continue to hold its value for years to come.

Bakelite Heat and Smell Test

Simple tests at home can verify the authenticity of suspected pieces of Bakelite jewellery. In particular, Bakelite has a very distinctive chemical formaldehyde type smell to it when it has been held under hot water for a few moments or heated by rubbing in your fingers.

Bakelite "Clunk" Sound Test

Bakelite jewellery has a distinctive "Clunk" sound when hit against another piece of Bakelite. Identifying the sound will require practise but the sound is completely different to other modern plastics.

The Value of Vintage Bakelite Jewellery

The true worth of a vintage piece of Bakelite jewellery depends on several things including the condition of the piece of jewellery, the size, its coloring, its availability, and its visual appeal. In a world of fast fashion and disposable accessories, bakelite jewellery stands out as a timeless and unique choice for those who appreciate the beauty of vintage craftsmanship. Whether you're drawn to its bold colors, intricate designs, or nostalgic charm, adding a piece of bakelite jewellery to your collection is sure to elevate your personal style and make a statement wherever you go. So why not give bakelite a try and discover the enduring allure of this iconic material for yourself!