Posted 10 years ago
vintagelamp
(1101 items)
These look like something that Theda Bara would wear so I included my photo of her. I found this in a local shop. I have no idea who made these. Any information appreciated. Is this bakelite or celluloid?
very cool, just google how to identify bakelite, lots of info out there.
Many thanks!
valentino97, Great to hear from you again! No, I did not find out anything further about the bracelet. I believe that I was told that it was bakelite when I purchased it but I am not sure. I think that there are ways to test it but I have not tested it yet either. Yes, Theda was great! I am lucky to have two of her original photos. I am seeing reproductions of them on line.
If you are in the US, Formula 409 on a q-tip on the inside of the bracelet, if it turns yellow, it's Bakelite. Have a cloth handy to wipe off the 409. Not sure this is Bakelite in any case as Bakelite turns a different shade, and also because I think I see a seam which usually rules out Bakelite. Could be another form of vintage plastic.
katherinescollections, Thank you so much for the info! That is an easy test!
valentino97, Will try along with above suggestion. No problem loving Theda...that is the time period and the stars that I love!!!
It could also be carved from a animal horn.
Celiene, No, not animal horn.
Uh - Google image search horn snake bracelet... You will be very surprised. A hot pin test could tell you.
https://www.etsy.com/search/vintage?q=horn+snake+bracelet
Celiene, I would be VERY surprised! It just doesn't feel like horn. I am going to look at your link now. thank you!
OK.. what is the "hot pin" test?
Dyed Horn: horn can be heated and molded. It is lightweight and may feel smooth, or may have a waxy or greasy feel. To test for horn, you can use the hot pin method, if it is horn it will burn with the most disagreeable odor, like burning hair or feathers. Test in an inconspicuous area.
Here's a good guide for testing jewelry materials.
https://jewellerymuse.wordpress.com/2013/07/01/tests-for-identifying-jewellery-materials-from-amber-to-whitby-jet/
Celiene, I apologize. Never knew horn could be that smooth and glossy. It does have kind of a waxy/greasy feel to it.
No problem! It's a very nice one.
Celiene, Thank you for the education! I learn soooo much here!
I can't say for certain, but given it's yellow color, I would say it has some age. Looks like there is wear to the design as well.