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To: Retrofitted; big bad easter bunny; lastchance
You're correct, it does look like bakelite, Retrofitted, but it could also be black lacquered wood.

And yes, lastchance, it does look like arts and crafts era engraving. And IF it IS arts & crafts, then it has to be wood, because bakelite was yet to be invented back then.

Plate isn't hallmarked, this piece is hallmarked, so I think that it is sterling silver.

21 posted on 12/06/2023 2:46:02 PM PST by nopardons
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To: nopardons

It can still be silver without being sterling. Sterling is considered 92.5 percent purity which is marked either sterling or 925. European silver is often marked 800. I was serious about the ice test. It is quick and will not damage the piece. You can also do a smell test. If the item has an odor similar to a penny chances are it will be plate. Little or no odor usually means it is silver.

I know there are tests for bakelite but be careful to find one that will not damage those arms. There is also a small possibility that the piece is a marriage. The silver parts being older and the arms newer (if they are bakelite) You wrote it looked glued. Maybe a repair was done at one time.

Can you post some close up photos?


22 posted on 12/06/2023 3:18:37 PM PST by lastchance (Cognovit Dominus qui sunt eius.)
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