A really amazing find to stumble upon. We had these in the shop years ago, and they sold out very quickly. Now, they’re back!
This navy blue and green Bakelite pendant is a very large piece measuring about 2” tall by 1.5” at its widest point and nearly ½” thick!
The Patent Number on the 18” green enameled chain slide clasp is 3427691. Pendant tests positive for Bakelite. The clasp is very unique, in that you lightly push the jump ring toward the back of the clasp to slide the ring out, then when fastening again, you slide the ring in and give it a slight tug to tighten.
This necklace was most likely constructed in the sixties using old stock Bakelite blanks (patent number has a filing year of 1969). This is seen in jewelry design from the fifties through the early seventies, after the production of Bakelite had ceased.
Bakelite, the first synthetic plastic, was developed in 1907–1909 by Belgian-American Dr. Leo Baekeland. It is a cast phenolic resin. The term Bakelite is used today rather generically, describing all the cast resin plastics produced under different brand names (i.e. Catalin etc.) during the 30's and 40's. It was used for many things from radio cabinets, industrial parts, hardware (like door knobs and pulls) to kitchenware, jewelry and more.
It was most prolific in costume jewelry during the 30's and 40's. It was a bright cheerful inexpensive depression era novelty that allowed women to still enjoy jewelry during a time of financial hardship and limited metal goods (due to the war).
It was an expensive plastic to produce however, and after a while alternative plastic were invented and Bakelite faded away.
A very unique piece.
Very limited stock.
Shipping from United States
Processing time
1-2 business days
Customs and import taxes
Buyers are responsible for any customs and import taxes that may apply. I'm not responsible for delays due to customs.
Payment Options
Returns & Exchanges
I gladly accept exchanges and cancellations
Just contact me within: 7 days of delivery
Ship items back to me within: 30 days of delivery
Conditions of return
Buyers are responsible for return shipping costs. If the item is not returned in its original condition, the buyer is responsible for any loss in value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you accept returns/exchanges?
The short answer is no, however refunds and exchanges will be handled on a case-by-case basis. You will be responsible for paying for your own non-refundable shipping costs for returning and receiving your item. We do not give refunds or exchanges due to color issues, size, wear and tear, jewelry damage after arrival, or if you just simply "don't like it". Please see "Care Instructions" for information on how to properly care for your vintage items.
If you have any questions about an item, please contact us BEFORE ordering, to insure the item is as you expected when it arrives. We try to list the details of every item, but encourage you to look at any pictures as well, and let us know if you have any questions.
Do you ship outside the U.S.?
At this time we are only able to ship to the U.S. Please check back often if you are not in the U.S., as we are hoping to add international shipping in the future.
Do you combine shipping costs if I want more than one item?
Yes! If you are interested in purchasing multiple items, I DO combine shipping! Etsy should automatically combine these costs at checkout however, if you notice that the shipping is double what you would normally pay, please contact me, and I will create a custom listing for you.
Can I see a photo of the item being worn?
We generally do not try on or wear the pieces for photographs, because they are previously unworn to begin with. Some people might feel it is unsanitary to purchase previously worn jewelry (earrings mainly). We do have some mannequin displays that allow us to show what it would look similar to while being worn. Please look at the measurements in the listing description to determine the sizes of each piece, and as always, please let us know if you have any questions about an item before purchasing.
Care instructions
Store jewelry at room temperature in a dry place.
• Excess moisture or heat can cause damage.
• Never immerse your jewelry in water.
• For best results, store each piece separately in a plastic zip bag.
• To clean your jewelry, use a soft cloth, such as a silver cleaning cloth.
Gold plated and silver plated items will not retain their color with prolonged daily wear.
If your jewelry breaks, we are happy to provide simple instructions and suggestions on how to repair a piece, if it is possible.
Vintage jewelry is often brittle from being stored for decades, but with proper care and handling, your jewelry will last for decades to come.