RARE, 3 BAKELITE Beads. Authentic, pre-1939. Make offer, See Description. for Sale

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RARE, 3 BAKELITE Beads. Authentic, pre-1939. Make offer, See Description. For Sale

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RARE, 3 BAKELITE Beads. Authentic, pre-1939. Make offer, See Description.:
$299.00

The heft, the density and primal amber-brown of these dark-veined BAKELITE beads are superbly unique! They are authentic, antique, original turn-of-the19th century creations. I purchased these BAKELITE beads in the early1970s when I was making jewelry. It has been an honor to share many of my special beads with others over the years. I have only a few of what remain.3 JUMBO BAKELITE Beads @ $299 each. Or reasonable offer.Each measures approximately: 38.6mm (1 1/2 ") Wide
Beads weigh individually as follows:
- Approx 29.26 grams- Approx 28.99 grams- Approx 28.95 grams. Unfortunately, as is often the case with something beautiful, exceptional and popular, "knock off" specialists began to create FAKELITE in mid-20th Century. Fakelight pieces are recognizable by their light weight, easily-scratched features, versus the heavier weight and sturdiness of Bakelite.
Also, telling is the sound. When tapped with your fingernail, "tink" is the sound of Fakelite, versus "thunk" that of Bakelite.These BAKELITE BEADS I have for sale have passed every AUTHENTICATION TEST.
- 1.) The mass (density per size)
- 2.) The deep "clunk" sound
- 3,) Difficult to scratch & maintains its patina- 4.) Hot water camphor scent, & most importantly- 5.) The Simichrome Polish test. (SEE RESULTS IN PHOTOS POSTED.) The polish is pink but when the metal polish comes into contact with the authentic BAKELITE, it turns yellow.
Interesting Historical Notes:
-LEO BAEKELAND was a Belgian Chemist . In 1893 he invented Velox Photograph Paper, later to become Kodak/Polaroid.In I907 he developed another product for electrical and mechanical parts, a durable plastic: BAKELITE!- BAKELITE was featured at the 1893 World's Fair as souvenirs, but more importantly, as high-end haute coutre jewelry.
- In 1920's BAKELITE jewelry was extremely popular worldwide, but a particular rage in Europe.- The 1925 Paris Exhibition included designer Paul Poiret jewelry featured alongside Lalique.- COCO CHANEL used Bakelite jewelry in her designer collections.- Both Coco Chanel an Elsa Schiaparelli frequently appeared in VOGUE wearing BAKELITE jewelry.