Abstract: A metal gasket assembly includes first and second gasket layers each having at least one sealing port defined therein. Each sealing port has an embossed bead formed about the periphery thereof which extends from a planar surface of the gasket layer. A stopper layer is disposed between the respective planar surfaces of the gasket layers and it has at least one bore extending therethrough which circumscribes the embossed beads. The stopper layer is of a sufficient thickness to prevent over-compression of the embossed beads during installation of the gasket assembly. A method is also disclosed for constructing a gasket assembly in accordance with a preferred embodiment of the subject invention.