Martine,
And wow, I love those two worn & shaped phenolic beads. I am doing some research on the phenolic beads traded into Africa, and this is the first time I have heard the term "amber Marseillais". Do you have any more information about the production of these beads in France? The only information I have on the large Bakelite or phenolic beads going into Africa is that they came from Czech Republic or Germany. But, there were Bakelite factories all over Europe, starting in the 1910's.

So my assumption is that the basic material for beads (probably in long rods) was made in many locations. But the mystery is where the actual beads were made. I think the beads were mostly made as plain "wheel" shapes in Europe, traded to Africa, and then the beads were worked into different shapes in the Maghreb countries.

Perhaps your contacts would know more about them.
Rosanna.
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Hello Rosanna,
When it comes to the Marseille amber, I think I have to be cautious. Stories can take enormous proportions and have an own life and after reading your last mail, I wonder if that name was not attributed to Marseille because it was shipped out of Marseille towards Morocco, and hence it was said it was made in Marseille….???
I will try to find a bit more on French websites, and check out with my Morocco contact as well.
...
I am looking forward to the result of your research, and I hope I can find bits and pieces that can help you forward. I’d be very happy to do so.

Martine