Ebonite Or Bakelite?

[siamackz]

I have a beautiful Haro glass nib pen from the 30s. The body has been terribly oxidised into a brown (see pics). So, I have been polishing it with micromesh, and it's almost jet black now.

 

While polishing, I noticed an unpleasant smell. I remember reading that one way to differentiate between Bakelite and ebonite is from the smell when you rub it? Can anyone confirm this? And if yes, then what is the difference in smells - so that I can identify the material of my pen.

Thanks

[Pan_Welenty]

In my experience vulcanized rubber (Ebonite) definitely has a smell. I suppose it would make sense that the smell intensifies when heated, by friction or body heat.

A quick Google search brought me to this thread: https://www.fountainpennetwork.com/forum/topic/98340-ebonite-odor-forever-or-new-pen-smell/
Does it smell of Sulphur? If so, it's probably Ebonite.

[ehemem]

Ebonite for sure.

[AD43]

Bakelite is very uncommon, my dad said it was used to make jugs and other things that need veRy little shape, it is also very brittle, so Viscontis Monte cristo is just a rip off for some cheap plastic.

[siamackz]

Yes, sulphur! Thanks guys!