can anyone identify what this is please

[caron]

Any ideas what this is?  I think it is made of ivory and it you can unscrew it about an inch from the thicker end.  There is no hole in the thin end so I dont think it was a pen.  Could it be a lace bobbin?

Any ideas Roots chatters?

[janan]

A needle container?

Here is a few similar ones

http://www.patented-antiques.com/Backpages/SewAcc/needle-thread.htm

Jan

[caron]

Thank you so much for telling me what this item was. It was interesting to see the other needle cases.  Mine is quite intricate.  A very pretty item.  I am not sure if it is ivory or bone. My ancestor
travelled the world on sailing barques as a steward so probably picked it up on his travels.!

Thanks for solving this for me.

Regards caron

[caron]

After looking at a few websites to distinguish whether something is ivory or bone, I think my needle case might be resin.  When I unscrew the case, I can see a seam running down the case, so I assume this must be molded.  Still a very pretty item.  We tend to use boring pin cushions to store needles now!

[janan]

You are lucky to have such a beautiful item   My mother has a very plain wooden one - although I rather like it nonetheless.

Jan

[caron]

I think my needle case has a resin insert I am not sure what the outside is made of? Guess it must be resin throughout!

[Greensleeves]

It certainly is a very beautiful piece; would be interested to know if you find out what it is made of.

[caron]

I think that it is man made as it has a seam running down the inside!  Its very pretty though isnt it?

At least we know what it is now!