Help with type of material used for this Art Deco hair comb

[denisebrain]

I previously had a hair comb with big spheres that were very lightweight glass—which I figured out by dropping the comb

At first I thought these spheres were glass as well, but I'm not sure. The comb part seems to be molded celluloid. It has been drilled to fasten on the structure that holds the balls. That structure has a carved-looking edge. The three parts (comb, spheres and backing) is pearlescent and light.

Thank you in advance for your thoughts on what material this is!

 

[Vintorious]

I agree that this is likely celluloid. I have a celluloid necklace that has the same pearlescence to it. What is it that gives you pause?

 

[denisebrain]

I think it's the balls that I doubt. I don't know that I've seen hollow celluloid spheres. I keep thinking they could be glass, but the finish is so like celluloid, as you say.

 

[Linn]

The comb definitely looks like celluloid. The pearl looking spheres look like faux pearls. If they are - you don't want to get them wet to test them, so doing a hot water test isn't a great plan. Are the spheres cooler to the touch that the comb part? The "spheres" and the comb might make make a different sound when you tap them with your teeth but it's subtle.

(Probably not helping,,,, )

 

[retro ruth]

I was also thinking temperature might be a clue to whether they are glass or not

 

[denisebrain]

The whole feels very lightweight and cool but not like glass-cool, if that means anything!

 

[morning-glorious]

If they are lightweight, I'm thinking they are some type of plastic or acrylic with a pearl surface coating?