Re-reading this dialogue, I have a new thought.

I suggested that the beads in=question might be rolled-pad beads. I no longer think this.

I think it is demonstrated that the beads are probably Venetian.

But, here's my new thoght:

The beads were probably originally oval, and had a trailed spiral from pole-to-pole. This would have been made exploiting a multicolored ribbon, providing a somewhat random-appearing striation. Then, the beadmaker changed the shape to a cylinder—causing the edges to become the flat ends of the beads. This makes it appear that the beads have an internal spiral—when it is actually superficial.

Of course, a longitudinally broken bead would reveal the structure very quickly. And would either confirm or refute my supposition.

In any event, I can accept that the bead(s) in question are probably Venetian, and not ancient.

Jamey