What’s the best way to show buyers that an item is genuine bakelite?
Also, I heard about a lot of chinese bakelite being dumped onto the market over the past several [URL removed] has this affected the market for genuine vintage bakelite? Is the difference obvious? Will collectors be able to tell my bakelite isn’t chinese junk by the photos?
Many thanks!
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citygirlhardware Reputation: 14 See citygirlhardware's booth |
Here is a link I found discussing Bakelite -
I hope it helps!
[URL removed]
Kim ![URL removed]
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SunflowerAntics Reputation: 725 See SunflowerAntics' booth |
Here is another link for info on how to test bakelite.
[URL removed]
I have also heard of running it under hot water and then seeing if it smells like formaldehyde. French bakelite (I think it is called Galalith) will smell like sour or burned milk.
Hope this helps!
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PhoenixResale Reputation: 219 See PhoenixResale's booth |
The best test I know is with Simichrome.It comes in a tube like toothpaste
and you rub some on the piece if it turns yellow than its Bakelite.
As far as I know Black and European Bakelite leaves a dark. almost brown color.
I hope that helps .
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Vintage_Treasures_ Reputation: 38 See Vintage_Treasures_'s booth |
When hot water is applied to bakelite it gives off an identifyable odor, however I use Simichrome. Its easy and reliable. Use cotton swab to apply and let dry. When dry use another swab to remove paste and if it turns yellow that’s a positive and reliable result for bakelite. The exception is on black bakelite..I don’t know of any reliable test on any black bakelite item.
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PeachBlossom Reputation: 16 See PeachBlossom's booth |
So, if it turns yellow, are you not discolouring your item? Or, is just the paste turning yellow, and not damaging the product?
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BookbinEtc Reputation: 1322 See BookbinEtc's booth |
@ bookbinetc – If it is true bakelite it won’t damage the item. BUT just in case, always test on the smallest area possible and in a spot that won’t show. i.e. the inside of a bracelet, the underside of a pin, the side of a domino, etc.
Not sure about the question concerning China produced bakelite but would think that good photos will be enough for collectors.
Couroc of California – the folk who make those wonderful black pieces with inlaid mosaic designs? Couroc, as far as I know is still in production or was into the 2000’s and when you test their pieces, they are positive for bakelite. But since collectors know the name Couroc, you seldom see a bakelite reference. Just mentioning this to let you know that there may be some present day items out there using the same plastic forumula.
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myshabbichic Reputation: 21 See myshabbichic's booth |
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