I've always referred to both of these materials(and others I'm sure) as Bakelite. I know that often times I use the name incorrectly, but it's easier then saying black scales that stink when you rub them. I have some pre 1890's blades that I can safely assume are not Bakelite since it was not invented until the 20th century. I have noticed that most will turn brown when oxidized, but some turn kind of green. Ive also seen early advertisements that referred to scale material being "rubber", which I believe is a reference to Ebonite. And as far as I can figure, Vulcanite was a generic name for Ebonite. The more I look into this, the more it seems Ebonite was the more common material used for razor scales.

Can anyone tell me how to tell these materials apart?