Bakelite is one of the earliest plastics, developed just after the turn of the 20th century. It was widely used for industrial purposes, and also became very popular for use in consumer products. Radio cases, game pieces, jewelry, napkin rings, buttons, etc. from the 1930s and 40s are very collectible today. Because less costly methods for making plastics were developed after WWII, production of Bakelite declined and finally ceased in the 1960s, leaving behind warehouses and factories full of old, unused stock.

If you would like more information about Bakelite, I recommend The Bakelite Jewelry Book by Dawes and Davidov, and all of the Bakelite books by Karima Parry. I'll also be happy to answer questions or provide additional information via email at