The Bakelite Test(s). . . . .

With so many varieties of plastics, celluloid, fakes and faux out there, sometimes it's good to be reminded of the tried and true methods for determining whether a piece truly is bakelite.

1. Testing by Sound

Listen for the "clunk" when two pieces of Bakelite are tapped together. This very distinctive sound is often heard when two or more Bakelite bangles are worn at the same time. Try tapping two pieces of another type of plastic together, and compare the sound to two pieces of true Bakelite the next time you're out shopping where Bakelite is on display.

2. Testing by Feel

Consider the weight of a piece of plastic, especially jewelry. Bakelite feels heavier, more dense when compared to other types of plastics. Hold another piece of plastic in one hand, and a piece of Bakelite of approximately the same size in the other. You'll notice the heavier feel of the Bakelite.

3. Testing by Smell

Rub the item in question vigorously with your thumb until you feel the plastic heat up. Then, before it cools, take a whiff. A distinct chemical odor similar to formaldehyde will linger with most genuine Bakelite. This often takes a bit of practice. Some noses find better results when the piece of plastic is placed under hot running tap water before sniffing it. This test works well with Bakelite bangle bracelets.

4. Testing by Sight - Inspect the Piece Closely

Look for wear scratches and patina that new pieces of plastic don't normally exhibit. Also look for tiny chips on the edges of carving. Examine the piece with a jeweler's loupe or another type of magnifier, if needed. Generally, an old piece of Bakelite will not be free of some minor scratching and wear, even though it is in excellent condition by a collector's standards.

5. Testing by Sight - Using Simichrome Polish

Simichrome Polish is a non-abrasive cream used to clean metals. You can also use it to test Bakelite for authenticity. Sparingly apply to a soft cloth and gently rub a small spot on the inside or back of the item being tested. If it's Bakelite, the cloth should turn yellow with ease. If a piece is lacquered, it may test negative. Black Bakelite pieces often fail this test as well. Use the other tests above to confirm authenticity if a piece you suspect to be Bakelite fails with Simichrome.

6. Testing by Sight - Using Formula 409 Cleaner

Scrubbing Bubbles was once the standard cleaner to use for Bakelite testing, but experts now recommend Formula 409 instead. To use, dampen a cotton swab with 409 and rub it gently on the inside of the item being tested. If it's Bakelite, the swab will turn yellow. If a piece is lacquered, it may test negative with 409. Black Bakelite pieces often fail this test as well. Use the other tests above to confirm authenticity if a piece you suspect to be Bakelite fails with 409.

Happy treasure hunting to all!

Easter Blessings To All . . . . .

Happy St. Patrick's Day to all. . . . .

Ever have one of those days. . . . . .???

Trinkets 'n treasures up for bid . . . .

Finding a vintage signed Weiss brooch and earring set really made our day. Finding that it was in perfect mint condition was the cherry on top of the sundae!! This perfectly adorable daisy set is being offered for sale on e-bay, this week, and we hope our readers will take a look and consider bidding! It truly is a remarkable set, with each delicate petal in pristine condition, and would be the perfect way to welcome springtime!!

The tiny Victorian snare drum charm is another spectacular item we have listed this week. This piece proves the truth to the old saying that 'good things come in small packages', because the stunning and intricate gold work on it is beyond compare!

Hope you have a wonderful day!!

Discovering something new. . . .

Recently, I came across a couple of lovely pendants in a box of 'junk' jewelry found at a yard sale. They were marked "Marvella". As a novice collector, I had no idea whether this was a well known jewelry maker or just something ordinary, so I went to my favorite source, the "All About Jewels Glossary" [link provided, on our sidebar] and learned their fascinating history. Thought I would share that, here, along with a picture of the beautiful gold tone, pearl, and rhinestone pendant that I found among the 'junk'.

Marvella is a costume jewelry brand that was founded by Sol E. Weinreich, who began business in January, 1906 in New York, New York. They were bought by Trifari in 1982. It is now owned by the Monet Group, Inc. This company has been called the Weirich Brothers Company, Marvella, Inc., and Marvella Pearls, Inc. Marvella created costume jewelry, many featuring simulated pearls and faceted beads.

Marvella produced pieces under many names, including Caress (first used March, 1949), Chiffon (first used Jan., 1941), Complexion-Tone (first used Jan., 1940), Crown Prince (first used June, 1949), Date Timer (first used June, 1956), Dew Drops (first used Nov., 1949), Dubl-Play (first used Sept., 1960), Dynasty (first used June, 1959), Evening Star (first used Jan., 1939), Freshura (first used Dec., 1958), Hi-Rise (first used Oct., 1958), Inde-Pendant! (first used Nov., 1949), Jewelrt's Quality Pearls (first used March, 1929), Knight's Collar (first used June, 1949), Le Paradis (first used July, 1935),Lisanda (first used 1940), L'Opera (first used Oct., 1928), Love Story (first used Aug., 1948), Marva-Star (first used June, 1963), Marvanium (first used Sept., 1950), Marvelique (first used1961), Marvella (first used Jan., 1911), Marvella Coutura (first used June, 1961), Marvella Fabulous (first used Jan., 1949), Marvella Minerva Quality (first used Jan., 1939), Marvella Pearlescence (first used June, 1961), Marvella Pearl Nuggets (first used 1948), Marvella Replica of Indian Ocean Pearls (first used Jan., 1941), Marvella Simulated Pearls (first used Jan., 1941), Marvella Snug-Flex (first used April, 1950), Marvella the loveliest pearls made by man (first used Sept., 1945), Marvella Zenith Quality (first used Jan., 1939), Marvella "95" (first used July 1, 1960), Marvellescence (first used June, 1963), Narvellesque (first used June, 1958), Marvelette (first used Sept., 1958), Marvellier (first used Jan., 1958), Marvelissimo (first used Jan., 1948), Marvelock Clasp (first used April, 1950), Marvelustre (first used 1960), Maturelle (first used June, 1957), Natura (first used June, 1954), Neptune (first used Jan., 1939), North Star (first used Jan., 1939), Queeen Quality (first used 1916), Queen of Hearts (first used April, 1954), Queen's Lace (first used June, 1949), Rival (first used 1911), Spin-it (first used Dec., 1955), and Symbol of Beauty (first used Aug., 1943).

LAST CALL. . . . . .

This week's e-bay listings are just about to expire, so we wanted our readers to know that there are still some fabulous vintage items ready for your bid! From an incredible signed Whiting & Davis evening bag, to a flawless Crown Trifari baroque pearl necklace, there are some remarkable bargains to be found!! For those who love the spirit and fun of the 60's, there are three sets of super funky, large, uniquely designed chrysanthemum earrings to choose from. . .in silver, gold, or a gold and black combination.

Be sure to check us out on e-bay at lilone191 today!!

Hope your day sparkles!