Looking at the photo, this appears to be an antique silver-plated nutcracker / nut pick tool, most likely a Victorian-era or early 20th-century table nutcracker.
The design gives it away:
- The two curved metal jaws at the bottom are meant to grip and crack a nut shell.
- The screw mechanism tightens the jaws around the nut, rather than using a simple squeeze handle.
- The decorative handle suggests it was made as a serving-table utensil, often used for walnuts, pecans, hazelnuts, or similar nuts.
- The long decorative top may also function as a handle for leverage or a combined nutcracker/pick style tool.
Many older households had these in silverware drawers or dining room sets, especially when serving nuts after dinner was common.
To identify it more precisely, check for:
- A maker’s mark or hallmark on the back of the handle or near the hinge (photos of those markings would help).
- Words like “Sterling,” “925,” “EPNS,” “Silver Plate,” or a manufacturer name.
It may be a sentimental family item rather than a rare valuable piece, but silver marks and maker information can sometimes make a big difference.
