'From an early age I have loved creating precious little things.' Chihiro Makio first considered a career as a painter. While in college, however, she discovered the fun and endless possibilities of three-dimensional materials. Wood, fiber, glass, and metals were some of her favorites. She won the first place Saul Bell Award for Silver in 2005, a very prestigious national jewelry competition. "Lotus" Necklace, oxidized, rhodium and rose gold plated sterling silver with hand stitched glass bead details strung on a cable.