Bakelite Tortoiseshell Cane
The tortoiseshell cane handle is a very unique material that was used in the past in making the cane handle. Due to the fact that tortoiseshell is very rare and fragile and this kind of handle requires several pieces belonging to only one animal, new innovative replacements were found, such as the bakelite.
The craft of tortoiseshell cane handles is no longer available, so all the surviving pieces are authentic antiques. Opposite to this fact, the bakelite began to be used recently, in the 20th century and this plastic is considered to be the most authentic replacement for the tortoiseshell.
Bakelite Cane Handle
Bakelite is a durable plastic with nonconductive and heat-resistant properties and it is used in various industries. In cane making, the bakelite is the base for mass-production of lower quality canes. These canes serve as great replacements for the tortoiseshells canes and, at the same time, they are economical and durable.
The apparent resemblance between the two materials is deceiving and in order to avoid confounding them, a punctilious observation is required. First of all, the most relevant test is observing the joint line that the plastic object has, as all bakelite items consist of 2 parts, molded together.
Even more, if observing all the details of the cane, there can be found some cavities or marks that represent the extraction of the piece from the die. Secondly, besides the optical characteristics, the bakelite also presents a specific plastic smell, if it is burned or intensely rubbed.
Tortoiseshell Cane Test
A simple test is very relevant in this case: a hot needle should be applied on a hidden surface of the handle. While the tortoiseshell smells like burned hair, the bakelite handle smells like burned plastic or kerosene. Even if just rubbing the fingers on the plastic surface, an acid odor is emitted, which makes the identification quite obvious.
Although these antique cane tests will help you determine the authenticity of a tortoiseshell handle, it is not intended to be the final test. Always consult an expert cane collector!
One Response to “Bakelite Tortoiseshell Cane”
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August 25th, 2008 at 2:25 am
There is a cane available that has a break near the top and has been repaired obviously. Will this cane be strong enough to hold one up without breaking again and is $1700 too much to pay for a damaged tortoise shell cane. It has no hardware of any kind on it and the top is curved. Thank you for all the information you have shared with me above.
MS