Modern Jewelry, Vintage Style

The Art Modern period of jewelry design came after WWII and ended around 1960.   Abstract artists began experimenting with jewelry as an art form.   Whimsical motifs such as ballerinas, poodle pins and Christmas trees were often used.  Charm bracelets and ID bracelets also became popular as younger customers sought to create a personalized touch with their jewelry.   Jade, opal, citrine and topaz were often used in place of fine jewelry, as more middle-class customers were seeking beautiful but affordable jewelry.

For those able to afford fine jewelry, the popular gemstones of this period included diamonds, rubies, sapphires and pearls.   Faux pearls also became a widely accepted fashion accessory around this time.  Coco Chanel, the iconic fashion designer, popularized the use of faux jewels in her design, with her classic signature pieces in gold chain and pearls.   Her designs, as well as many others of the period, continue to be popular and collectible today.  

Photo credit: Ebay.

What Is Bakelite?

Bakelite was invented in 1909 by Leo Baekeland, a chemist.  Bakelite is an early form of plastic and was originally designed to be used for industrial purposes. Bakelite jewelry was formed by artisans in the Depression era after they carved out pieces from cylindrical blocks.  Bakelite jewelry was originally intended to be a substitute for pearls and jade jewelry during the 30's and 40's WWII era.  It eventually became an affordable substitute to high-end fashion jewelry, and many jewelry designers used Bakelite during those times, including Miriam Haskell and Coco Chanel.   It is now considered highly collectible as well as valuable.   Bakelite jewelry collections are often shown in museum shows and used as educational and historical tools.  Buyers must remain cautious about purchasing this jewelry as many pieces can look like Bakelite without being the real deal.   Professional collectors and antiques dealers are experts in identifying true Bakelite pieces and should be able to help you in your search for this fabulous collectible product.   Below is a vintage Bakelite table-top lighter and a Bakelite deco-era bracelet.  Bakelite polka dot jewelry are among the most expensive.