Just to be clear, I realize this is an inexpensive stainless steel ring. Not expecting much. But I would find it rather difficult to take a photo of this ring such that it resembles the texture of the ring in the photo here. I will try and post my best photo. The photo here makes it look like there is a brushed look to the outer ring and a brighter steel for the main ring with an over-all matte finish. The darker effect of the brushed texture would indeed make the gold figures stand out better. In reality, the gold is not well contrasted. If you didn't know what the ring should look like, you wouldn't think there was any tonal difference or texture intended at all. I mean, it isn't bad if you want a glossy ring with faint characters you can barely distinguish (they are quite small). But it looks OK... just looks  a bit too much like a cheap prop from "lord of the rings." than something unique. I wonder if I stuck it in fire if the lettering would glow. LOL. It was less than $20, but I have bought better rings for about the same price. You can get a tungsten-carbide or titanium ring for $20 that will make this seem like a trinket you would get as a carnival prize. The main issue is that the outer ring is pretty sharp on the edges, making it a bit uncomfortable to wear. The webbing between your fingers will constantly feel a bit uncomfortable as you break this in. I will probably just keep it and get used to it. The biggest thing you will likely notice in the photos I took is that the ring is a LOT more glossy than the photo on amazon. That is my main gripe. Just wish their photo was accurate.