? re plastic barrel clasps

[pheasantvillecollectables519]

I see necklaces with plastic barrel clasps being called vintage in various listings. Just how old are they? Here are photos of the necklace I picked up today, tested for bakelite - it isn't.

[pheasantvillecollectables519]

I have a cold and couldn't do the sniff test.  My son tried it and thought he could smell something faintly.

Would a jeweler be able to tell just by look/feel? Or is this a fairly specialized thing the average jeweler might know?

[cleio]

dont black lights help with amber?

[old.crows.nest]

Yes, I think Arlene has done some research with the UV / Blacklight.

I also test for amber by rubbing my finger over the surface. I find amber resists like it is a bit sticky compared to plastic.

[pheasantvillecollectables519]

I tried running my fingers along it and it does feel slightly sticky; also did it on a plastic necklace which was very smooth and not sticky at all.

[old.crows.nest]

It is not a very scientific test but I use it on the fly 🙂

[arlene_v]

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@pheasantvillecollectables519 wrote:

Would a jeweler be able to tell just by look/feel? Or is this a fairly specialized thing the average jeweler might know?

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I very much doubt a jeweler would be of help here, you and I probably know more about amber than the average jeweler. 

This type of amber is treated. It does not occur naturally in this form. It is still amber, just not in its original state. I always think of the boat brooches produced in Russia when I think of this particular amber. https://www.ebay.com/sch/i.html?_from=R40&_trksid=m570.l1313.TR0.TRC0.H0.Xamber+boat+brooch.TRS0&_nk...

Often folks think they are plastic, but they are  heat treated amber. 

I am 99% sure your necklace falls into this category. 

[pheasantvillecollectables519]

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@old.crows.nest wrote:
It is not a very scientific test but I use it on the fly 🙂

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And it is one more check mark on the list of tests:)

Arlene_v, is ambroid or pressed amber the term you were trying to remember?

I found this page that mentions them.

http://www.green-crafts.com/content/how-recognize-genuine-amber