Item: Art Deco Nita Raya Albert Flamand Bakelite and "Fladium" Locket Bracelet
Materials: Gold Tone Metal, Orange Bakelite: Plastic and Resin
Dimensions: 2.5" and a little under 7.5" when laid out
History:
This is a truly lovely piece of signed Art Deco jewelry. It is composed of a gold-tone "fladium" body, a term used to describe metals that have been given a protective oxide layer to stave off tarnishing. Within these fladium settings, there are also three rectangular slabs of highly polished burnt orange bakelite. Behind one of these Bakelite boxes, there is a secret photo locket, which currently holds a black and white photo of a young man (see photos). Perhaps what is most notable about this piece, however, is the fact that it is signed with "MADE IN FRANCE PARIS," as well as actress Nita Raya's name. Nita Raya was an extremely prominent singer and actress during the 1930s and '40s, and this bracelet was designed by Albert Flamand, a very notable Parisian Jewelry designer, who developed fladium. He probably chose to use the Nita Raya name to market the bracelet, much like Marilyn Monroe's name, appearing on Jewelry in the 1950s - 1970s. It is in great condition, with only some minor, surface-level scuffs on the higher arched edges.
**Vintage items may have wear or production imperfections. All visual imperfections are noted in the description; photos are part of the description. Questions welcome. Thank you for shopping!
