The chief properties of marble — hardness and density — are rarely put to work in modern design. Not so in this nutcracker by ECAL graduate Jérôme Laurendeau, who has created an object for Marsotto Edizioni that is beautiful to look at yet wholly functional and suited to its purpose. Comprising two parts — a vessel that is perfectly shaped to hold walnuts and top that is sized to crack anything placed inside — this black Marquina version of the 'Nutcracker Casse-Noix' is equal parts practical tool and countertop decoration.