SKU: J257

This art deco bakelite bracelet has a steep step center band. It is rare cream and blue marbleized bakelite. Fabulous and rare estate jewelry piece.

Bakelite is the most highly collected vintage, plastic, (for lack of a better term). Dr. Leo Baekeland patented the process of making bakelite in 1909. Similar materials like catalin were made by other companies. It is a heavy, very flexible material which can not be recycled but can be decorated through molds, carvings, inlays, lamination, etc., and it could be made in most any color. Bakelite can change color, an exposed area can darken and acquire scratches, and a type of patina forms on the surface. It can be opaque, translucent, or transparent. Bakelite was very widely used and in demand for radios, jewelry, utensils and dinnerware, and as decorative features on other items.