Vintage Swirled Butterscotch Bakelite Bangle Bracelet
Unbranded · Jewelry & Watches > Vintage Costume Jewelry
Era / Decade
1930s-1940s Art Deco Era
Material
Bakelite (Phenolic Resin) featuring a semi-translucent butterscotch swirl pattern. Solid quality with no seam.
Condition
Good. Shows surface scuffing and scratches consistent with age. No visible cracks or major chips, but needs professional polishing to restore shine.
Demand Level
Moderate. Bakelite collecting has a dedicated niche following, though it varies by color and carving rarity.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$35.00 - $65.00 (Low-Mid-High range based on current demand and condition)
Estimated Retail Value
$150.00 - $200.00 (Adjusted for modern luxury vintage retail inflation)
Comparable Sales
Similar plain butterscotch bangles typically sell for $40-$55 on eBay; carved versions reach $100+. Marbled variations like this one trend closer to $60 in peak condition.
Description
Classic Art Deco era vintage bangle bracelet crafted from authentic butterscotch bakelite. This piece features a beautiful marbled/swirled pattern that shifts in the light. It has a rounded profile and a standard inner diameter. Perfect for stacking with other vintage bangles. Tested for authenticity.
Key Features
Authentic bakelite material, highly collectible butterscotch color, no seams (indicates molded high quality), Art Deco styling.
Authenticity Indicators
Simichrome test (yellow residue) or hot water test (distinctive formaldehyde/camphor smell). No seam lines visible. Confidence Level: High.
Flaws to Note
Visible surface scratches and dullness from age. A 'flea bite' nick may be present on the rim but is hard to distinguish from the swirl pattern. Needs a light cleaning.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (best for vintage collectors), eBay (broadest reach), or Ruby Lane (high-end antique marketplace).
Selling Tips
Always mention 'Tested Bakelite' in the title. Take high-macro photos to show the depth of the swirl. Use keywords like 'Art Deco', 'Simichrome Tested', and 'Celluloid Era'. Measure the inner diameter precisely in inches.