Plastic Jewelry

I have to tell you that plastics are the bane of my existence. There are so many plastics out there that mimic other materials, such as ivory, glass and coral, that it makes it really hard sometimes to figure out what was actually used in a piece of jewelry,

One of the biggest clues, of course is weight. Plastic is often lighter than other materials. Then there's feel. Plastic tends to feel warm, while glass feels cooler to the touch. Of course, there's also close examination with a loupe and some other tests. But plastic can be a great pretender, which is one of the reasons it's been used for so many years in jewelry.

First plastics were developed as early as 1867. Plastic such as cellulose, casein and Bakelite could be molded into many useful and decorative items. Synthetic resins were developed in the 1920's and were often used in jewelry. These resins could be molded and colorized in many ways to make beautiful and inexpensive jewelry. Since these plastics coincided with the Art Deco era, many beautiful geometric pieces were made that are still just as glamorous today.

The 1930's and 1940's was the age of cellulose plastic. Since these plastics could be formed into thin sheets, they could be molded into almost shape. This is my favorite era of plastics, because there were so many delightful figural and floral pieces made during this period. Of course, the same material was often used for Craker Jack charms!

Lucite also became popular during the 1940's and 1950's because it was used for the war. The materials that were used in airplane windshields was also used to make jewelry, handbags and high heels.  I remember this era quite well because my Mom's favorite outfit included a clear plastic basket handbag and a pair of clear high heels studded with rhinestone designs.


Today, all kinds of plastics, including Bakelite, are still used in making jewelry.  Inexpensive plastic can be made to look like much more expensive materials or used on their own to make whimsical and beautiful designs.  If you'd like to learn more about plastic jewelry, I would suggest Collecting Art Plastic Jewelry by Lee Leshner and Plastic Jewelry by Lyngerad Kelley and Nancy Schiffer.