I second the fact it was a great idea. I think Allesandro is correct, if there was a better feeling that these pieces were in the same space as the ground, either through use of shadow or better light work, this idea would have taken you to high places.
Had the same thoughts prior to entry. Went back and forth between beveled edging and drop shadows. The problem wit the drop shadows was I couldn't figure out how to position them so they looked natural on the ground. Ended up going with the beveled edges to keep the separation from the background. Not sure I'll revisit it though.
I second the fact it was a great idea. I think Allesandro is correct, if there was a better feeling that these pieces were in the same space as the ground, either through use of shadow or better light work, this idea would have taken you to high places.