Thanks for showing this bead. I can certainly see the appeal.

By now, I have made two more chevron-ish beads.

Two main issues that will probably only be fixed with more tools. (all the others can be fixed with lots and lots of practice, I think).
First: making it on a mandrel without a mold makes getting even layers and even points very hard.
Second: not having any large cutting and polishing tools (like a lathe) makes it pretty impossible to get a smooth finish.

I have some of yours, Art, and they have such an awsome smooth feel.

Hans helped me with the green one!

Grinding with that little dremmel tool must surely require patience. Don't forget to work wet!
You might find it a help to jamb a small stick in the bead hole to help keep the bead in hand and turn it. I use bamboo skewers. Just grind the stick to a long taper like a pencil and fit it into the bead……
Keep up the good work, They will only get better and better ;-)

but Floor did the substantial work and research. The beads are surprising!