Bakelite Jewelry - 1Earth Antiques and Appraisals Magazine

AUTHENTICITY
Bakelite accessories bear no markings. To test for authenticity, people often carry a tube of Simichrome polish [available at hardware stores]; when you rub it on the item with a cloth, the cloth should turn yellow. You can also use Scrubbing Bubbles household cleaner for this test. (Note: this test applies to American Bakelite; with slightly different composition, original European and Asian pieces may not respond to the test).

Another test requires touching a hot needle (use a butane flame) to the object. If the piece is Bakelite, it will give off an odor of formaldehyde. This test will produce a mark, so it's best to test in an unobtrusive spot.

Over the years, artists have created "new" Bakelite pieces by cutting and/or combining older original pieces: large pieces are cut into smaller pieces; dots are embedded in plain bangles; new chains are added. Learn to recognize these less valuable Bakelite-come-latelys.

The unsophisticated buyer may not realize he or she doesn't have a vintage piece. Often the color combinations are not the same as authentic vintage pieces. Some of these creations are very attractive, however, and may be bought with the understanding that they are new creations from old Bakelite.

butterscotch bakelite bangle

Age and exposure to light
have added richness to
this butterscotch bangle.

CONDITION
Unlike many collectibles, the effect of light has helped Bakelite to age gracefully. The colors, delicious enough in their original state, have deepened and matured over time (e.g., today's "butterscotch" began life as a very different shade).

Originally prized for its durability, Bakelite is still tough stuff; you can crack it if you drop it a certain way, but other than the potential for occasional small age lines, it just keeps getting better.