Lucite necklaces are made from a hard plastic resin with thermosetting properties. They were first developed in 1937 and were popular during World War II. They come in a variety of colors and textures and can imitate more expensive materials. They offer a low-cost option for expanding jewelry collections, but are vulnerable to scratches and yellowing with age.
A Lucite necklace is a type of jewelry made from a hard plastic resin. Unlike traditional plastics, this resin has thermosetting properties, which means it cannot be melted or reformed. Throughout history, a Lucite necklace may also be known as a Bakelite or Polycarbonate necklace, although these materials exhibit a slightly different structure than true Lucite. This term can refer to a necklace made entirely of Lucite beads, or a standard metal chain with a single Lucite charm. While many people associate Lucite necklaces with a clean, classic look, this material also comes in a wide variety of colors and textures.
Lucite was first developed in 1937 by the DuPont Chemical Company. This thermoplastic was in high demand during World War II, where it was used to make aircraft windows and other vital equipment. In the early 1940s and ’50s, manufacturers began using this material to make jewelry as well. This time period represents the height of the Lucite necklace craze, when women flocked to these necklaces due to their low cost and design versatility compared to traditional metal jewelry. Although the popularity of Lucite jewelry died out in the 1960s, some shoppers still appreciate the material for its distinctive vintage style.
The most common type of Lucite necklace consists of clear beads that are often quite large. Manufacturers also produced Lucite beads in many solid colors, including large chunky designs and small strands of pearls. Throughout history and today, these solid beads have been used to imitate more expensive materials such as turquoise and onyx. Special moonglow beads consist of colored plastic that appears to glow from within, giving them a unique appearance.
A Lucite necklace can also consist of special marble beads designed to resemble stone or granite. These beads or charms can also be encrusted with glitter or even embellished with rhinestones or shells. By mixing various colors, manufacturers can also create a confetti or speckled look for these beads.
These necklaces allow women to expand their jewelry collections at a very low cost compared to other types of jewelry materials. They also offer a wide variety, as well as a style that can look vintage or modern, depending on the design. However, buyers should note that Lucite is very vulnerable to scratches and may yellow as it ages. Once damaged, this jewelry can be difficult or impossible to clean, and may have to be replaced instead.
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