The American Catalin Corporation was founded in New York, N.Y., in 1927; it developed the light-colored, transparent, filler-free Bakelite resin in a wide range of colors. Bakelite is the first synthetic plastic, developed by Dr. Leo Baekeland between 1907 and 1909. American Catalin Corporation used its form of the resin for costume jewelry, fashion accessories, radios, and other products. By 1942, the company suspended its manufacture of jewelry and cast items to concentrate on wartime production. After the war, petroleum-based plastics gained favor.
From the description of American Catalin Corporation salesman's sample book, 1928-1930. (Duke University Library). WorldCat record id: 436458683
From the guide to the American Catalin Corporation salesman's sample book, 1928-1930, (David M. Rubenstein Rare Book & Manuscript Library, Duke University)
