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Add a touch of classic Art Deco elegance to your next project with this curated pack of fifteen authentic 1930s "French Ivory" celluloid beads. Crafted in the United States during the height of the early plastic era, these molded beauties capture the creamy, luminous warmth of antique ivory. Prized by jewelry designers, costumers, and vintage restorers alike, these hard-to-find historical beads bring genuine mid-century charm and character to any custom creation.
Era: 1930s, Interwar Period
Color: White, ivory-toned, cream white
Material: Celluloid
Size/Dimensions: 12.5x16mm
Origin: United States
Quantity: 15 total beads
Keep away from high heat and open flames. Wipe clean with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals, solvents, acetone, or long exposure to water.
Necklaces, jewelry, or as a fine addition to any collection.
Celluloids are considered the first plastic. Introduced in 1880, the height of celluloid was seen between the 1930s and 1955. It was banned from production because it is highly flammable.
"French Ivory" (also called Ivorine or Pyralin) was a trade name for celluloid created explicitly as a cheaper, mass-producible alternative to real animal ivory. During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, genuine elephant ivory became extremely expensive and scarce. Celluloid allowed manufacturers to mass-produce imitation ivory items, ranging from vanity dresser sets and hair combs to jewelry and beads. This gave the middle class access to the luxurious, creamy look of ivory at a fraction of the cost. These faux ivory beads continue to offer that alternative to jewelry makers today.
