Bakelite Johnny's
Bakelite Johnny's
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Welcome to Bakelite Johnnys We sell vintage plastic jewelry Browse our large selection of BAKELITE Lucite Celluloid Galalith estate bangle bracelets necklaces sets rings clip earrings pierced dress fur costume fashion simichrome hot water bead choker collar antique screw back acetate hard wide
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How To Test Bakelite  

Basic Bakelite Criteria:

Because of the false positives sometimes given by chemical testing, you will want to be sure your item meets the basic criteria's of Bakelite in addition to passing the chemical tests.

1. Bakelite has no Mold Lines
2. Bakelite is heavier then other plastics
3. 2 Pieces of bakelite struck together will have a distinctive sound
4. Run hot water over a bakelite item it should have a formaldehyde type odor
5. Bakelite has a unique surface, interiors usually slightly pitted. Exteriors may vary according to actually finish used and wear.
6. Bakelite was generally hand finished The item would have been hand sanded and polished.

 

What you will need:
Q-Tips, The item you are testing,
and Scrubbing Bubbles, 409, OR Simichrome Polish
  "Conclusive Tests"
(There are false positives)




409 Test
Spray 409 on a Q-Tip and rub on the bakelite piece. The Q-Tip should develop a yellow stain. (*Note: 409 can damage the finish.  Test a tiny unobtrusive area and have soap and water at hand to clean immediately).
Scrubbing Bubble Test
Use the same as you would use 409.  Should produce a yellow stain as well. (*Note: Scrubbing bubbles can damage the finish VERY much. This is a less desirable test).
 


Simichrome Test
This is by far the best test for bakelite. Use as 409 and you should get a yellow stain. 
Don't use too much simichrome. Refer to pictures at left. You can always use simichrome to polish your plastics.
The color of the yellow stain will vary widely from piece to piece depending on the oxidation on the item and the exact formula used to make the item. For instance European bakelite tends to stain almost brown.
For more detailed info check out our article on How to Test Bakelite.

If you do not have any of these supplies, you can always buy a bakelite test kit!



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