Length 17" inches / Weight28 grams / Biggest Bead is 20mm long and 15mm diameter / All measurements are approximate / The clasp is a replacement, not the original
 
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Lovely and impressive vintage 1940s to 1950s early bakelite graduated olive shape beaded necklace. The color is a dark cherry red amber with light variations between one bead to another. These beads are faceted, very translucent and very beautiful. The cherry amber bakelite colors tend to vary with light according to the hour of the day and the type of source, natural or artificial lights; and there are variations from bead to bead. The necklace beads are on a cotton string which is in fine condition but is highly recommended a re strung. Excellent condition with no chips or cracks just surface wear and age. Guaranteed vintage bakelite tested with simichrome. A nice piece for collecting and wearing.

Bakelite or polyoxybenzylmethylenglycolanhydride, is an early plastic. It is a thermosetting phenol formaldehyde resin, formed from a condensation reaction of phenol with formaldehyde. It was developed by the Belgian-American chemist Leo Baekeland in Yonkers, New York, in 1907. One of the first plastics made from synthetic components, Bakelite was used for its electrical non-conductivity and heat-resistant properties in electrical insulators, radio and telephone casings and such diverse products as kitchenware, jewelry, pipe stems, children's toys, and firearms. The "retro" appeal of old Bakelite products has made them collectible. Bakelite was designated a National Historic Chemical Landmark on November 9, 1993, by the American Chemical Society in recognition of its significance as the world's first synthetic plastic.