Bakelite Buttons, Bangles and Buckles

Apparently, using Simichrome is the most reliable method of verifying whether or not something is made of Bakelite. Unfortunately, the product isn't available in Canada. I was about to order it online, when I remembered that a friend often travelled to the U.S. on business, and he agreed to buy some on his next trip. I was so excited when I started testing -- it was a bit like a treasure hunt, looking for the tell-tale spot of yellow on the end of the Q-Tip.



I was sure I'd discover loads of vintage Bakelite buttons, but this is all I've found in my collection. I remember the bracelets from my childhood, but it's the red and apple juice-coloured buckle, from my mom's button box, that's my favourite.

The search continues ...

Glass Bead Necklaces

About ten years ago, I purchased two $5.00 bags of jewelry bits and bobs from a second-hand store. Stuffed inside were lots of costume and some vintage necklaces, brooches, earrings and bracelets. I bought them for my daughter, but after arriving home, I put some of the jewelry aside -- it looked just a bit too good for playing dress-up.

The turquoise necklace is about 21 inches long, strung with wedding cake glass beads -- very suitable name, don't you think? The other necklace, a multi-coloured number, is just 14 inches in length, a choker, and is made of hand-blown glass beads.

I should tell you that I don't have much information about all these things I own -- I'm armed with very little experience in or knowledge about vintage goodies. I just know what I like (though perhaps not enough to actually wear it). So ... if I identify something incorrectly, please let me know, as I'm always willing to learn.