The metal inlay on a bentwood ring is one of the most important design decisions you will make. It defines the ring's visual personality and determines how it pairs with other jewellery or watches you wear.
Copper is the warmest option. Its reddish-gold tone complements dark woods like Santos Rosewood, Whiskey Barrel Oak, and Purpleheart beautifully. Copper also develops a natural patina over time, which some men appreciate as a sign of wear and age. A copper-inlay ring looks like it has been earned, not bought.
Brass has a richer, more golden tone than copper. It is slightly more subdued and less prone to rapid patina, which makes it a good choice for men who want a metal accent that stays consistent over years of wear. Brass pairs particularly well with African Ebony and Bog Oak, where the golden contrast against the dark wood is sharp and intentional.
Sterling silver is the coolest and most versatile option. It reads as neutral, which means it works with any wood colour. Silver is our recommendation for light woods like grey-dyed birdseye maple and natural maple, where a warm metal would compete with the wood's tone. Silver also matches well with white gold or platinum watches.
There is no wrong choice. The best metal inlay is the one that matches the colour palette you already wear and the aesthetic you want your ring to project.