It is amazing to me that dozens of books have been written about "vintage Bakelite" and collectible plastics jewelry—that NEVER MENTION this stuff isn't actually Bakelite.

I have promoted the distinction for thirty-five years, and I've given numerous lectures on the topics of amber (1978), and collectible plastic beads and jewelry (1986), to quite a few audiences.

People do not like being told that their amber is fake. And collectors of old plastic do not like being told theirs is not "Bakelite."

These topics inspire considerable emotionally-charged consternation. I am accustomed to being rejected and dismissed, because I say unpopular but true things. I am the Cassandra of the Bead World. It is my cross to bear....

If you're interested in the topic of Catalin, read the Wikipedia article below.

JDA.