Plastic is an incredibly versatile material that has been used in jewelry making since its invention in the mid-19th century. Today's durable plastics come in a vast range of colors and can be molded into a multitude of shapes.

For centuries people have used naturally occurring plastic-like compounds to fashion components for personal adornment. Some of these compounds were produced with resinous tree sap, ground animal horn or shellac made from insects.

The first synthetic plastics were created in the 1850's by chemically treating organic compounds. These early plastics, casein and celluloid, were used to mimic more expensive precious materials such as ivory, amber, jet, mother of pearl and coral. Unfortunately, these plastics were brittle, and deteriorated quickly. In addition, pieces made from celluloid were highly flammable and would sometimes spontaneously combust.

Bakelite, a favorite plastic among collectors, was invented by accident. Dr. Leo Baekeland was trying to develop less flammable bowling alley floor shellac. He realized that the resulting compound could also be molded into objects. He patented it as Bakelite in 1909, and it quickly became a popular material. Jewelry makers combined colors, carved intricate patterns and inlaid rhinestones into the plastic. During the Depression, vibrantly colored Bakelite beads, bangles and brooches lifted the spirits of those who could no longer afford precious stones and metals.

Around 1937, the Rohm & Haas Chemical Company patented an acrylic resin they named "Plexiglas". At the same time the DuPont Corporation developed an identical compound they called "Lucite". This new plastic was produced in an array of colors ranging from jewel-like transparent to shiny opaque.

The DuPont Corporation began to market Lucite to jewelry makers, but by 1942 nearly all plastic production was reserved for wartime purposes. Research and development during the war created more efficient factory processes that made Lucite extremely affordable. When the war ended, jewelry makers began to actively use Lucite in their creations, and Bakelite became obsolete.

Most of the vintage Lucite beads that our stores offer come from costume jewelry overages produced in the 1950's & 60's. These beads are in pristine condition since they have never been circulated. Our vintage Lucite beads and pendants also mix beautifully with glass and stone beads.

Beadworks Boston, Cambridge & Salem stock many types of plastics, including authentic vintage beads and pendants. Please visit our stores to add the light, playful style of plastics to your springtime designs.

Sources:
www.thecarrotbox.com/plastic/index.asp
www.beadinpath.com
www.njscuba.net/artifacts/obj_bakelite.html
www.njscuba.net/artifacts/matl_polymers.html#Plastics