How to Test a Bakelite

Examine the possible piece of Bakelite closely. Look for any seams and examine the piece's color. Authentic Bakelite almost never has seams, and changes color with age. If the piece has seams or is bright white (rather than mustard-colored or at least dark ivory), it is probably not Bakelite.

Rub the possible piece of Bakelite vigorously with your thumb until it grows noticeably warm. Smell the section you have rubbed. Bakelite should offer a distinctive odor. If your piece does not offer a scent, it is probably not Bakelite. This test works well when you wish to test a piece of Bakelite that you do not (yet) own, at a flea market or estate sale, for example.

Dip the possible piece of Bakelite into hot water for 15 to 30 seconds. Smell it. As with the rubbing test, the Bakelite should give off a distinctive scent. If this is not the case, the piece is probably not Bakelite. This is not necessarily an accurate test, however; pieces of Bakelite that are dirty or have been polished recently might not give off this smell.

Dampen a piece of light-colored soft cloth with Simichrome or dip a cotton swab in Formula 409 or Dow Bathroom Cleaner. Rub the possible piece of Bakelite with the cloth or cotton swab. True Bakelite will generally leave the cloth or cotton swab distinctly bright yellow. Rinse the piece immediately if you used Formula 409 or Dow Bathroom Cleaner, as these items can damage Bakelite after prolonged exposure.