In this paper we present a new and efficient method for the depth-compression of range images in a feature preserving way. Given a range image (a depth field), the problem studied in the paper consists of achieving a high compression of the depth data while preserving (or even enhancing) perceptually important features of the image. Our approach works in the gradient domain. It combines a linear rescaling scheme with a simple enhancing technique applied to the gradient of the image. The new depth field is obtained from the enhanced and rescaled derivatives of initial range image. By four parameters a user can steer the compression ratio and the amount of details to be perceivable in the outcome. Experiments have shown that our method works very well even for high compression ratios. Applications can be of artistic nature e.g. embossment, engraving or carving.