Abstract: The invention is a method for making a reverse intaglio decorative or jewelry item and the product made by the method. Any suitable graphical image is scanned into digital memory. The image is changed from two-dimensional to three-dimensional by adding contour to the original image using appropriate graphics software. The contour is scaled for the production of first and second slightly different sizes. Both sized images are converted to a computer numeric control dataset for controlling a milling machine, which cuts the first contour into the underside of a cabochon of stone or crystal and the second contour into a die stamp tool. An insert is die-stamped into metal, said insert having a convex surface that matches the contour of the first contour milled into the cabochon. The insert is painted and mounted into the cabochon to form the reverse intaglio. Suitable inserts may also be produced by molding and casting rather than machining methods.

Abstract: A poppet valve assembly wherein the valve stem is protected from water contact. The valve includes a housing, a valve stem reciprocable within the housing, and a valve seal over the stem. The seal is a boot or sleeve having a base end and a valve end. The base end is open and sealed about its entire periphery to the housing. The valve end seals against the end of the valve stem. The housing defines a valve seat, and the valve end of the seal includes a valve portion selectively engaging the seat. Preferably, the seal further includes a bellows portion along its length to bias the valve portion into engagement with the valve seat.