The Dreaded "F" Word - Fakelite!

In the last 4 years I have been collecting Bakelite, I been duped a couple of times with "fakelite" posing as Bakelite. One of those purchases took place in an antique mall in South Florida.  I bought a heavy, smooth rootbeer bangle that was listed and priced as Bakelite but it was in fact, fake. I was just starting to collect and still unaware of how to properly tell if a piece was real or not.

What is Fakelite? Fakelite is imitation Bakelite that can have the same look, weight, feel, detailing, colors, marbling, and carving style as real, authentic Bakelite pieces. I have heard from others that a few fakelite pieces can even smell like Bakelite!

I wanted to add pictures showing examples of fakelite but I do not want to get in trouble. Most of the Fakelite I encounter has been found on Etsy and eBay and if I post someone's listing pictures, I may find myself in hot water.

So here are some pictures of REAL Bakelite from my collection to familiarize yourself:

Notice the carvings are basic, not super crazy detailed? See the marbling on the end-of-day pieces? See the colors?

Sadly, I have been finding A LOT of fakelite on Etsy recently.  The fakelite typically in question is usually a bangle with overly ornate carvings and the colors are too marbled.  The bangles are too thick, way too heavy, and the colors are odd. A while back, I saw a bangle that went from red, yellow to green! So fake! What really tips me off when a bangle is fake is the type of carving. I have seen carved dolphins with big bubbles and sea life!

Real Bakelite usually has more simple carvings. You may find real pieces with cut-outs, rhinestones, round grooves that encircle an entire bangle (like a record), leaves, rose petals, etc. But dolphins? FAKE!!!

What burns my biscuits about fakelite is that some sellers will claim a piece passed all the tests (friction, 409, hot water, simichrome, etc) and they will charge Bakelite prices. However, if a piece is listed as 'fakelite' and the price reflects that, then great! I may even buy it if it's cute! But when fakelite is passed off as actual Bakelite, that is wrong!

I recently found a few links for helping distinguish fakelite from Bakelite:

http://www.realorrepro.com/article/Is-it-Bakelite

http://www.angelfire.com/ca3/gale/

And here is a fabulous post from 2012 by amazing vintage blogger, Brittany, of Va-Voom Vintage:

http://www.vavoomvintageblog.com/2012/03/how-to-identify-bakelite.html

I wrote this post in the hopes of helping others who may be in the infant stages of starting their own Bakelite collections.  If I can give just one bit of advice, I would suggest looking for Bakelite in person especially before venturing online to buy. Many antique malls, antique stores, car boot sales, charity shops, and swap meets will have a few bits of authentic Bakelite for sale. Familiarize yourself with the colors, the smell (do a friction test with your fingers and then smell your fingers), the weight, the sound (Bakelite should have a heavy clunk not a light "tink tink"), marbling, and the carvings. Also, the inside of a real bangle or the back of earrings, brooches, etc will be seamless. There will be no pour marks or branding.  The surface may have a patina or age spots. Learn the proper characteristics so when you shop online or visit the antique mall, you will have a better determination of what to buy and what to avoid.

Antique Shopping in South Florida

As some of you know, I was recently visiting South Florida (Boca Raton and Fort Lauderdale to be exact). While I was there spending time with my in-laws and participating in the Hukilau, I also had the opportunity to visit two of my favorite antique malls, Sugar Chest and Hillsboro Antique Mall.  Both malls are located in Pomano, Florida.

http://thesugarchestantiquemall.com/

http://www.hillsboroantiquemall.com/

Of the two malls, I have to admit that I prefer Sugar Chest. The layout is easier to walk and browse through and the bakelite selection is fantastic. Hillsboro has a cool vintage post card section (it's huge!), furniture, a great number of vintage housewares and kitchenware, and loads of costume jewelry. The only drawbacks are the small amounts of bakelite (and what you do find is so overpriced) and the layout is a bit chaotic. If there is such a thing, I feel like there is too much to see. I call it "sensory overload."

Nevertheless, I bought some post cards from Hawaii to frame for my tiki bar, three thin red bakelite spacers, a pumpkin-colored carved bakelite bangle, and a Hobnail dish for my mother-in-law.

(The pumpkin, carved bangle is on the far left. One of the new red spacers is second to the far left and the other new red spacer is second to the far right.)


During my trip to South Florida, I also visited Sugar Chest Antique Mall in Pomano, located on Federal Highway. This mall is about 15 minutes south of my mother-in-law's house. Every time I visit, I always make a stop at Sugar Chest! I call it my "bakelite haven."

On my recent visit, I bought three carved bakelite bangles. Each one was listed as 65 USD and there was a sale going on and as a result, my bangles were 40% off! I also scored a pristine opalescent, glittery lucite bag. I was floored when I spotted it glowing from within its display case! The seller originally wanted 400 USD but I felt that was way too high. Between my mother-in-law and the lovely attendant, Joey, who always helps us when we visit, I managed to get the bag for 200 USD.

One of the many charms of shopping in antique malls is finding hilarious items! You never know what you are going to find!

Let me show you what I discovered:

This reminds me of David Bowie in his "Blue Jean" video!

The King, complete with "sneer detailing."

A very macho cowboy Ken doll!

A sequin nightgown? Dress? Robe? I am not sure. So shiny.

A velvet poker hat. Do you think I should go back and get it?

A Ken Doll from the 80s. Kind of reminds of "Jersey Shore" Ken. GTL!

And as we were leaving, I saw this book. Pose! Werk that camera, honey!

At the end of my Florida visit, I had some great new bakelite scores, a pretty lucite bag, some fabulous vintage post cards, and I got a gift for my MIL. Overall, it was a fun time! I cannot wait to go back when I return to Florida in August!

(BOTD) Bakelite of the Day!

Just for fun, I decided to do a "BOTD" i.e. Bakelite of the Day post! I normally wear bakelite in some form every day, usually as bracelets or earrings.

In the last two years, I have been building my bakelite collection. So far, I have spacers, a few carved bangles, some end-of-day pieces, a smattering of smooth bracelets, and two pairs of carved earrings. I want more carved bangles and a beaded necklace or two! I would have more but as we all know, bakelite is not cheap!

In addition to my bakelite obsession, I also love and make resin jewelry. I use pour resin by Castin' Craft mixed with glitter, beads, and/or opal flake. Initially, I just made pendants but in the last few months, I have branched out to making earrings too!

Here is one of the earrings I am wearing today! I made them with resin, green glitter, and mini square silver glitter!

After pouring and setting the mold, I allowed the mixture to set and when it was cured (two days), I popped the resin out of the mold, coated the surface with a clear, protective polymer, and attached the earring posts! Viola! They were done and ready to wear!

Bakelite Testing

Even though I have been collecting vintage jewelry for many years, it is only recently that I have turned to collecting Bakelite jewelry. Bakelite is an early form of plastic created by a Belgian chemist in the early 20th century. Bakelite was made into costume jewelry, hair accessories, and even radio facades. Unlike moonglow and lucite, bakelite is heavier and can often have an aged look or patina to its surface. Another key difference between bakelite and most plastics is the price! Bakelite is usually very expensive. The red spacer above cost me $18 USD and I recently bought another butterscotch colored spacer for about 20 USD. I have seen thicker bangles with intricate carvings go for 180 USD and up!

So, since most vintage collectors want the real deal, how do they know what they are buying is actually bakelite? Most sellers are honest, some are unaware of what constitutes the real deal, and some are out to "pull a fast one" on unsuspecting shoppers. So, what is a vintage girl to do?

There are several ways to test bakelite. Some methods involve using 409 and a q-tip, using Simichrome metal polish, hot water soaking, using Scrubbing Bubbles cleaner, hot needles (not recommended), listening for a distinctive "clunk" sound, and friction.

I am sure that pulling out cleaners and polish in the middle of the antique mall is not going to go over well with sellers. You could ruin their merchandise or just simply end up looking weird. I have found that friction testing and listening for the clunk are the best ways to test for bakelite authenticity.

When using the friction method, gently rub a small section of the bakelite until it feels warm. Smell your fingers and the bakelite. You should be able to detect the scent of formaldehyde. If you rub a piece of standard lucite or basic plastic, you will not detect ANY scent.

If you tap two pieces of bakelite together (this really works for bangles and spacers), you should be able to hear a heavy, solid clunk. If the pieces are plastic, not only will they feel lighter, they will have a light "tick" not a "clunk."

Another important characteristic of bakelite bangles and spacers is how they are usually "seamless." Unlike most plastics, bakelite bangles do not have seams in the middle.

I am still learning about bakelite and the more I learn, I will share with you all. I am having fun building my wares but boy, it this hard on my wallet!

So, do you like bakelite? Are you a collector? What are your tried-and-true methods for ensuring your investment is the 'real McCoy?'

Vintage Jewelry Spotlight- Moonglow Lucite!

Here is me, wearing a vintage, 1950s necklace made with green moonglow beads. I bought this piece from a vintage boutique in Lower Manhattan in February 2007. When I saw its intense green color flashing under the store lights, I knew I had to have it! Until I bought this necklace, I had never seen, let alone heard of moonglow before. After being introduced into the world of vintage lucite/plastics, I became hooked! I began searching eBay for anything moonglow. Over the last few years, I have collected items like my baby-pink hued, beaded necklace and bracelet set, a pair of olive green ball earrings, a 14mm pearl-white beaded necklace, a luscious cherry red, bead necklace, and a thin, tangerine orange bangle that still has its 29 cent price sticker still intact on the inside.

So, what is Moonglow? It is a form of lucite that first gained popularity in the 1940s and 50s. Moonglow gets its name due to its moon-like shine and schiller when light hits its surface. It has a moonstone, almost cats' eye look that seems it has its own inner light.

Moonglow lucite was made into earrings, bangle bracelets, beads, buttons, and man-made cabochons that were set into earrings and brooches. Moonglow came in many colors ranging from bright sunshine yellows, bold blues, radiant reds, soft pastels to deep emerald greens. Although moonglow was primarily fashionable during the 40s and 50s, it continued to be used in jewelry until the 1960s.

So, how was it made? Moonglow is comprised of acrylic resin and of heat-set plastic. This process was called "thermosetting." Unlike today's comtemporary plastics that feel hollow and insubstantial, vintage lucite, especially moonglow, has a nice weight to it. It feels strong and cool against the skin.

So, where can a vintage girl buy herself some moonglow? Websites like eBay and Etsy are chock-full of moonglow jewelry! The prices range from an average of $14.00 to $40.00 USD. I have found many auctions and online sales featuring necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and sets. I could go nuts buying more moonglow myself but have already amassed quite a collection as it stands. What I do need is a nice red, 40s/50s handbag! I am still looking for the "one."

Anyway, if moonglow jewelry is your 'cup of tea' and/or you are looking to start, I wish you happy hunting!

Guide to Buying Vintage Jewelry

This is me as a blonde (!) in November 2008. My husband and I were guests at professional banquet in Chevy Chase, Maryland. I am wearing one of my vintage hats and the earrings and necklace were from my husband's bubbe's collection. This matching set is from the late 40s or early 50s. It also included a hinge bracelet adorned with green and clear rhinestones. The pristine condition of this set is just amazing. All of the rhinestones are clear, none of the prongs are loose, no stones are missing, and the metal has not tarnished! My mother-in-law has given me several items from her mother's collection and I am impressed everything looks brand new. Most pieces even have their original boxes!

When it comes to my vintage style, I accent my look with vintage and reproduction jewelry. Sweet Romance, El Dorado Club, Classic Hardware, Lucky Loo Loo, and 1928 are reproduction companies making earrings, bracelets, necklaces, and rings. I know there is more! I have a pair of cherry earrings from Sweet Romance that I bought in 2006 from Baby Girl Boutique. They are made of green glass leaves, red rhinestones, and soft-toned gold metal. Even though these earrings are "new," people ask me if they are vintage. I prefer vintage over reproduction but if see something cute that 'looks' vintage, I will buy it.

However, when buying the 'real thing' at yard sales, estate sales, or vintage shops; here are some tips:

When it comes to vintage jewelry made with rhinestones, look for items in good condition. Make sure all stones are present and look for oxidized stones and/or ones that are chipped.

If there is tarnish and it is sterling, it more than likely can be cleaned with polish or even toothpaste (more on that later). If any metal is not sterling (or real gold) and you see flaking, tarnishing, or even rust, judge for yourself. We all know that vintage by its very nature is not perfect. An item that shows a little age can be charming but if something looks ravaged, then it will not be a good investment.

Speaking of sterling silver, if an item claims to be silver, look for the .925 stamp. This will more than likely be found inside of a ring or on the clasp of a chain and/or necklace.

Make sure earrings' screw backs are in good working order. If the screw back cannot tighten and untighten, then it will not properly stay on. If the earrings are clip, ensure the clip can grip the ear lobe. Also, if the clip is too tight, it can actually pinch the ear which can cause skin damage.

If an item (necklace, brooch, bracelet, or ring) has prong-set stones, make sure the prongs are tight and also check to see if any are broken. If you are crafty, you can buy a pair of prong tightening pliers from jeweler websites like Fire Mountain Gems. If you are nervous about doing this yourself, you can take your jewelry to any reputable jeweler that has a repair shop on its premises.

When buying brooches or earrings with in-set or glue-set stones, make sure all stones are present and/or not loose. Should a stone fall out, you can glue it back in. Jeweler's glue (available at Fire Mountain and most craft stores) and even basic Krazy Glue can be used to re-adhere stones into their 'sockets.' Simply apply a tiny dot of glue inside the socket and using a pair of tweezers, place the stone onto the glued area. Let dry overnight or per package directions! Be sure not to get any adhesive on your fingers! If this happens, soak fingers in an acetone-based nail polish remover. NEVER try to pry your fingers apart! You can rip the skin!!

When buying vintage chains, make sure the clasp closes and opens. Test the clasp to ensure it closes completely. Also, scan the chain for any weak or stretched links.

When buying vintage lockets, make sure the locket snaps tight after being opened.

When buying vintage plastic ala lucite or bakelite, check for any cracks or chips. I once bought a red 50s plastic bangle that snapped on me after a month due to a hairline crack.

If an item is made with genuine pearl, turquoise, or opal, DO NOT submerge these items in water and DO NOT EVER use jewelry and/or metal cleaner! You WILL damage the stones! Simply clean jewelry with a soft cloth. If the metal is tarnished (especially if it is made with sterling or gold), take it to a professional jeweler.

When cleaning vintage sterling, you can use silver polish. If you do not have any on hand or you feel nervous about using chemicals, you can use toothpaste! Simply get a soft, clean, dry washcloth and some q-tips (if needed). Squeeze out a small amount (a pea-size) onto the washcloth and rub onto the tarnished areas. The toothpaste will more than likely turn black. This is okay. When the sterling looks clean and silvery again, clean under warm water with an old toothbrush. Blot jewelry with a clean paper towel, lay flat, and allow it to dry on a clean towel.

When it comes to dressing vintage, not only is investing in a vintage (even repro) jewelry collection is a must for any retro gal, it is fun!

Here's to finding all things sparkly and bright!

Pearls! A Vintage Girl's Must Have!

Here is a pic of me in my kitchen. I am wearing my pearls with a simple black tee I got at Wal-Mart!

Pearls. Whether they are glass, man-made, cultured, or real, pearls are timeless and a must have for any vintage girl! Pearls make the most casual outfit look polished and chic. Adding a pearl necklace to simple white tee and a pair of high-wasted sailor pants gives your look an "instant upgrade!" Pearls come in many lengths. There is the 16 inch choker strand, the 18 inch princess length, the 32 inch opera length, and the 60 inch rope. Depending on the time of day and what clothing you are wearing, pearls are always appropriate!

The 16 to 18 length are good for simple house dresses and most daytime wear. This length invokes a sense of casual elegance. I often wear my 16 length pearls for the office and for running errands during the day.

The longer lengths are good for evening and even some office attire. It all depends what you wear with it. For example, I have a Majorica 60 inch rope strand that I recently got for my 35th birthday. I can double the strand and create a opera length look that goes wonderful with boatneck style dresses and tops and most cocktail wear. If I triple the strand, I have a 18-20 inch, three strand necklace that pairs well with evening attire and if I wear a simple black suit with a camisole underneath, I am ready for the office. Like most accessories, wearing pearls will depend on your clothing.

Another thing to consider when it comes to pearls is how much you are willing to spend and how often you will be wearing them. I think buying good quality, man-made pearls like Majorica or Carolee are a good choice. Majorica is not expensive like the famous cultured Mikimoto pearls, but it is not cheap either. For example, a 16-inch strand will often cost anywhere between $185.00 to $200.00. The price also depends on the millimeter or "mm" of the individual pearl size. In my opinion, the best pearl size is 8 mm. This is the classic size that is not too small nor too big. Anything over 12-14mm can look too bulky ala "Wilma Flintstone."

As for Mikimoto pearls, unless "money is not object" for you, a 7mm, 16-inch strand will cost about $2,300.00 USD! Take the price for a 32-inch strand and you will pay about $6,000.00 USD! The Mikimoto quality is legendary but their prices are infamously sky-high! I would love to have their pearls but I cannot justify spending that kind of money. So, what is a vintage gal to do?

There are a lot of good imitation, ie "man made" pearls out there. Carolee is a great brand that carries many styles of pearls and their stock can be found at most department stores. These pearls will cost about $55.00 to $200.00 USD. An 18-inch strand made with 8mm pearls will cost about $65.00 USD and a triple strand will cost about $195.00 USD. Carolee offers a lifetime guarantee as well.

The only pearls I do not recommend are the plastic ones or pearls that are painted glass. The plastic type looks cheap and the painted variety will eventually flake and peel.

When it comes to caring for your pearls (man made or not), here are some basic rules:

Do not wash your pearls in jewelry cleaner! EVER! Most soap-based cleansers will destroy pearls. If you need to clean your necklace, simply wipe with a soft cloth and when you are not wearing them, keep pearls safely stored in a jewelry pouch.

Do not wear your pearls when you are applying hairspray or spray perfume! These sprays WILL ruin the pearls' luster and finish! Moreover, it is best to wait 30 minutes after putting on perfume before wearing your pearls.

In conclusion, a vintage girl can never go wrong when it comes to wearing a classic, white pearl necklace! Wear them with elegance and be sure to properly care for them! You will be glamorous for many years to come!