Bakelite Charm Bracelets
Bakelite is a trade name for a synthetic plastic. A
number of similar plastics were introduced after the Bakelite patent expired
in 1927, including Catalin, Prystal, and Marblette. However, today's
collectors frequently use the term “Bakelite” to include jewelry made from
any type of thermoplastic.
Bakelite’s bright colors were perfectly suited to the whimsical jewelry
popular during the late thirties to mid-forties. During its heyday,
Bakelite was used in pins, necklaces, and charm bracelets. Many Bakelite
charm bracelets came complete with figural charms related to a particular
theme such as sports, school days, or the Wild West. Geometric charms in
striking colors are also desirable. Many of the Bakelite charm bracelets
sold today were assembled from vintage components.
Good ($10-50)
-- Bakelite pieces (e.g., buttons, disks) assembled and worn on
a chain bracelet.
-- Modern style bracelets, such as those sporting lobster-style clasps.
Better ($50 – 150)
-- Figural or geometric charms.
-- Vintage chain bracelet often made of brass.
-- Three or four charms
with the same theme.
Best ($175+)
-- Prefab theme bracelets with five or more charms.
-- Original celluloid
bracelet with a replacement clasp or, even better,
an original celluloid bracelet with its original celluloid clasp.
Online resources:
Bakelite –
The Durable Collectible
Fascinating article by Joyce Worley that includes a photo of an
exceptional geometric Bakelite prefab charm bracelet.
Gale's Bakelite
Guide
Learn how to test Bakelite and how to
distinguish vintage Bakelite from modern reproductions nicknamed
“Fakelite.”
Books:
The Bakelite Jewelry Book by Corinne Davidov and Ginny Dawes.
Abbeville Press Publishers, 1988. ISBN: 0-89659-867-5.
Bakelite Jewelry: good, better, best by Donna Wasserstrom and Leslie
Pina. Schiffer Publishing Ltd., 1997. ISBN: 0-7643-0122-5.
Copyright © 2004-2005. Joanne & Bob Schwartz. All rights reserved.
Revised: 03/19/05.