Who says that chemistry is just for geeks? DuPont has certainly done its part to make our lives better accessorized through chemistry.

The chemical giant gave the world Lucite which became a popular material for decorative jewelry Post-World War II.

Lucite® methyl methacrylate polymer was among the first plastics derived from petrochemicals. DuPont chemists discovered Lucite® in 1931 while exploring the high-pressure technology developed for ammonia production. The polymer’s crystal-clear appearance and its strength were far superior to nitrocellulose-based plastics. Lucite® was in heavy demand during World War II for use in windshields, nose cones, and gunner turrets for bombers and fighter planes. After the war, DuPont marketed it for use in a variety of decorative and functional uses, such as lamps, hairbrushes and jewelry.

Sadly Lucite is no longer being manufactured (though it lives on through Rohm & Haas Chemical Company's trademarked http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polymethyl_methacrylatePlexiglas which is an identical chemical compound). But for for Americana lovers there is still hope. Circa Sixty Three
is here to save the day.

The collection is made from uncirculated vintage Lucite, brass and 24k gold plate. Lucite, which was manufactured from the 1950s – 1970s, has recently become a sought-after item – designer Danielle Insetta is showing the line in Paris right now at the W Workshop fashion show. She started Circa Sixty Three in 2005 when she left her career on Wall Street to make jewelry after falling in love with vintage plastics she found at a Paris flea market.