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Well, Bakelite is popular and expensive. And it might be all Andy Warhol's fault.

Bakelite jewelry reflects the historical backdrop of the early part of the 20th century. Bright bangles, brooches and baubles made of this hard thermoset plastic were the height of fashion in the 1920s, 30s and 40s. During war times, metals were scarce. So plastic jewelry was the order of the day.

There is something luxurious yet playful about Bakelite or Catalin. Colorful, chunky pieces, sometimes with dots, stripes or marbled surfaces are irresistable to collectors. Warhol certainly found it alluring.

In the late 1980s, after his death, Warhol's tremendous Bakelite collection was sold at auction at record prices. This brought even more attention to Bakelite and hiked prices, which still remain steady today.

Carved, inset and especially well crafted and whimsical pieces still sell for thousands of dollars.

When you are buying Bakelite, do your research, ask questions and buy from a reputable seller. Use hot water and chemical testing to confirm the authenticity of your pieces. And keep up with reproduction alerts. There are usually tell-tale signs that a bangle or bauble that looks like Bakelite may be a mass produced piece of junk.

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Happy Selling,

Alloy Antiques