Description
This colorful necklace features a circa 1930 "apple juice" bakelite dress clip, converted to a pendant. Vertical rows of clear and amethyst-colored rhinestones add sparkle, while the handwoven brass chain features vintage (circa 1960), faceted lucite links. An antique glass button dangles from the clasp.
Details and Materials
Origin Story
Bakelite was an early plastic, developed by Leo Baekeland in 1907. It was originally used for industrial purposes due to its ability to withstand heat. It appeared in costume jewelry beginning in the 1920's and increased in popularity through the 30's and 40's. Bakelite was often intricately carved and came in a wide range of beautiful colors. Authentic Bakelite jewelry is highly collectible.
Dress and fur clips debuted in the 1920's, when costume jewelry first gained popularity. It is said Coco Chanel introduced the idea of wearing less expensive costume jewelry as art, instead of wearing fine jewelry as a symbol of status and wealth. When first introduced, dress clips were worn in pairs, often worn opposite one another on the neckline or straps of a dress. Popularity waned in the 1950's, when brooches became a more desirable personal ornament. Today, you'll see vintage clips attached to the dresses, sweaters, handbags and scarves of trend-setting celebrities.
