Another benefit in buying more common pieces comes with their relative exemption from fakes. But it’s important to remember that many illegitimate items are actually made from genuine Bakelite stock or old radio cases recycled from the ’30s.

Using small Bakelite pieces to form larger pins shaped like jointed characters is a common motif for reproductions. Genuine vintage character pins are quite expensive, so it’s important to examine these carefully for signs of newness. Carving plain bangles into desirable designs would be considered faking it unless those pieces are marked for what they are by the crafter.