What is this?

Hi, my mom bought two of these strange things from a thrift store in Scotland. I think they are North American, she thinks they are from Australia. Can anyone identify them?
-They are quite heavy, and their 'skin' feels velvety.
Thanks in advance...

 

They look like the seed pod from Banksia...called cones.






File:Two Banksia cones.jpg - Wikimedia Commons

 

Thanks Silver Surfer! I'll try and find some Australian botanists to see if they can confirm (my mum remains unconvinced, but I think you are right).

 

The Australian botanists aren't necessary: Banksia - Wikipedia

Or just search Google for banksia cones.

 

love Banksia serata
Here's the flower

 

Thanks Puddleton..never seen the flowers.
Banksia serrata just happened to be the only pics I had of any Banksia.
Seen on Madeira at Palheiro gardens several years ago.
I love interesting leaves.

 

Anytime friend.
The fruit of David Westlakes looks like a West Australian species.
Fascinating genus is an understatement