I enjoyed looking through your website and reading your blog. I have added it to my blogroll at: http://thecreativezone.wordpress.com/

Have you heard about portrait cameos ? This is a specialized area of gem carving where the portrait of a person is carved into a gemstone. Layered Agate is usually used as the color contrast between the layers can create a dramatic effect. The finished carvings look alive as the appearance changes with movement and light direction.

This happens because the white layer is translucent and a skilled carver can use this property to create shading that enhances the portrait. There are only around 22 people around the world doing this work as you need to be a very experienced gem-carver and very artistic.

I am the only one in Britain who does this work. Almost all of my work is for people in the United States. Not sure if I can upload a picture but you can see examples at: http://www.potraitcameos.com.

Thanks, Gareth Eckley

Thank you Danielle for taking the time to see my work and for your kind words. A write up would be valuable. Do you want to contact me via email to discuss the details ?

Gareth