Measurements

Necklace

Length:   18.25 inches   46.36 cm 

Widest Point:  1.5 inches    3.81 cm

Brooch

Length:   2.5 inches   6.35 cm 

Widest Point:  2.5 inches    6.35 cm

Description

* Vintage 1940s red bakelite apple necklace and brooch set

* Apples are plano-convex

* Green celluloid leaves on a white celluloid link chain

* Brooch features a red bakelite bar with white celluloid chain

* Single red apple and green leaf dangle from chain on brooch

* Beautiful example of the novelty necklaces that were so popular in this period

Novelty Necklaces

As plastics became more accessible during the late 1930s and onwards and because they could be moulded into the most elaborate shapes, these materials became very popular in jewellery making. They were also colourful and relatively cheap to produce, as opposed to the use of semi-precious stones, an important factor during the Depression and the second World War periods. Designs became more naturalistic, moving away from the earlier geometric shapes and sparkle. Contemporary jewellery makers drew inspiration from the natural world – flowers, feathers, birds and fruits were all popular themes.

Bakelite

The most expensive of the available plastics was bakelite. Bakelite jewellery featured in many of the USA's high-end department stores such as Bloomingdales, Saks, Lord & Taylor and Macy's. The jewellery of this era is now highly collectible.

Comment

Colourful necklace with all components intact and in great condition, with only age-related wear and tear not noticeable at all.

This item is within our selling stock. In the unlikely event that two buyers purchase this item concurrently, payment will be immediately refunded to the latter purchaser. We apologise in advance if this rare circumstance arises.