Bakelite should offer a distinctive odor. If your piece does not offer a scent, it is probably not Bakelite. This test works well when you wish to test a piece of Bakelite that you do not (yet) own, at a flea market or estate sale, for example. Dip the possible piece of Bakelite into hot water for 15 to 30 seconds.Smell it. As with the rubbing test, the Bakelite should give off a distinctive scent.nstructions. Examine the possible piece of Bakelite closely. Look for any seams and examine the piece's color. Authentic Bakelite almost never has seams, and changes color with age. If the piece has seams or is bright white (rather than mustard-colored or at least dark ivory), it is probably not Bakelite.