Monday, April 23, 2012

Beautiful Bakelite...What is Bakelite?!

This Photo courtesy of dougdrago.com
What is Bakelite?  This is a question I have been getting a lot recently.  Polyoxybenzlmethylenglycolanhydride, or as it is more commonly known, Bakelite, was patented in 1907. Bakelite is a heavier form of a plastic compound that was originally created for industrial purposes and became quite popular in the 1930's and 40's for everything from bangles to poker chips. Beautiful Bakelite caught on and became a normal alternative used in jewelry and buttons as well as many other common household bobbles and items such as small radios, lamps and fans, the list goes on and on. Here are some gorgeous examples of Bakelite bracelets, such works of art, I love these and I would wear them now!
                                          This photo courtesy of bakeliteboutique.com

 Bakelite's popularity (as opposed to that of other plastics and materials), soared because it is extremely durable and built to last, not to mention so versatile and attractive.  There are so many eclectic and exceptionally fabulous things made out of Bakelite.  I bet you vintage enthusiasts out there have some antique Bakelite pieces that belonged to Grandma and didn't even know it.
If you are interested on more information about the vintage wonder Bakelite, check out this website:  http://www.whatisbakelite.com/

Here's a little oldie but goody for the shoppe, 1940's RCA Victor radio model 1X in brown Bakelite. 


 
Radio stats: 1940's RCA Victor radio model 1X in brown Bakelite, police band included on station dial.
"His masters voice" Silver metallic Nipper dog decal on face in pristine condition.
Outer backing missing.  Beautiful condition, needs new cord.  7"H x 10"W 
 Contact TheJunkyardDoll@gmail.com if you are interested in purchasing this item.

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