Frequently Asked Questions

Ring’s

  • A: For regular cleaning:

    • Use warm not hot water and mild soap

    • Gently clean with a soft cloth not a bristle brush

    • Rinse thoroughly and dry completely

    This is safe for most materials and helps maintain the finish over time.

  • A: Yes—avoid anything too aggressive:

    • Harsh chemicals or cleaners

    • Ultrasonic cleaners (can damage certain inlays or bonds)

    • Abrasive materials or polishing compounds unless specifically intended

    These can damage finishes, inlays, or protective layers.

  • A: In many cases, yes.

    • Surfaces can often be lightly re-buffed with a soft cloth

    • More involved refinishing may be possible depending on the materials and wear

    Because of the layered construction used in many designs, some finishes can be restored over time.

  • A:

    • Avoid hard impacts against metal, stone, or other rigid surfaces

    • Remove when doing heavy work or high-impact activities

    • Keep away from prolonged exposure to moisture, chemicals, or extreme conditions

    • Avoid rapid and extreme temperature changes

    Regular care will go a long way in maintaining both appearance and longevity.

Core material Type

  • A:
    We work with a range of materials depending on the design, including:

    • Stainless steel, titanium, and tungsten for strength and durability

    • Black ceramic for scratch resistance and a clean, modern look

    • Damascus steel for unique patterning and character

    • Hardened .925 sterling silver for a traditional metal feel with improved durability

    • 18k gold (typically used as plating, accents, or inlays) for warmth and contrast

    • Bonded high-voltage cable cores, used as a structural base in select designs for added strength and a unique industrial element

    We also occasionally work with specialty or one-off materials, allowing for unique and experimental designs outside the standard lineup.

    Each material is selected based on real-world performance and how it complements the overall design.A:
    We work with a range of materials depending on the design, including:

    • Stainless steel, titanium, and tungsten for strength and durability

    • Black ceramic for scratch resistance and a clean, modern look

    • Damascus steel for unique patterning and character

    • Hardened .925 sterling silver for a traditional metal feel with improved durability

    • 18k gold (typically used as plating, accents, or inlays) for warmth and contrast

    • Bonded high-voltage cable cores, used as a structural base in select designs for added strength and a unique industrial element

    We also occasionally work with specialty or one-off materials, depending on the design. Some pieces may include unique metals outside the standard lineup, allowing for more custom and experimental builds.

    Each material is selected based on real-world performance and how it complements the overall design.

  • A:
    Some materials naturally change with wear:

    • Stainless steel and titanium resist corrosion and hold their color well, but are not scratch-proof

    • Tungsten and ceramic offer higher scratch resistance, though they are not completely scratch-proof

    • Damascus steel can develop more visible character with use

    • Hardened sterling silver may develop a light patina over time

    • 18k gold plating or accents can wear gradually, especially on high-contact areas

    In some cases, darker tones or contrast finishes are intentional and part of the design, not wear.

  • A:
    Durability depends on the material used:

    • Stainless steel offers reliable everyday performance, but is not scratch-proof

    • Titanium is strong and lightweight, with slightly better scratch resistance than stainless, though still not scratch-proof

    • Tungsten and ceramic are the most scratch-resistant options, but are not completely immune to damage

    • Damascus steel is durable and develops character over time

    • Hardened silver improves on traditional silver, though it is not resistant to all wear

    All materials are selected to perform well in daily use while supporting and protecting the inlay.

  • A:
    Most rings are built around a metal or ceramic core, which provides structure, maintains shape, and protects the inlay material.

    Depending on the design, this core may include traditional metals or more unique materials like bonded high-voltage cable, adding both strength and distinctive character.

  • Item descriptionA:
    Some designs include surface treatments such as:

    • 18k gold plating or accents

    • Other finishes used for color or contrast

    These finishes are not permanent and will change gradually over time, especially on edges or high-contact areas. This is a normal part of wear.

  • A:
    No—no ring is completely indestructible.

    Some materials offer higher resistance to wear than others, but none are immune to scratching, impact, or long-term use.

    Nothing is truly invincible—anyone claiming otherwise is oversimplifying things. Every material has its limits.

Wood Type

  • A:
    Solid wood is made from a single piece of wood, giving it a continuous grain and a more natural, seamless appearance.

    Bent or laminated wood inlays are made from thin layers of wood that are shaped and bonded around a core. in most cases this method allows for greater stability and more intricate design options.

  • A:
    Durability depends on how the wood is used in the ring:

    • Solid wood rings have exposed wood on the outside edges. While the material itself can be strong, it is more vulnerable to dents, chips, and moisture because the wood takes direct impact.

    • Bent/laminated inlay rings are typically set into a metal band, which protects the wood from side impacts. This makes them more resistant to everyday wear and damage.

    In simple terms:

    • Solid wood = natural look, but more exposed and requires care

    • Inlay (laminated) = wood is protected, making it more impact-resistant and practical for daily wear

    Water resistance:

    • Solid wood is water resistant, but not waterproof

    • Inlay designs are generally better sealed and protected, especially when edges are enclosed in metal.

  • A:
    Solid wood is ideal if you want:

    • A natural, uninterrupted grain pattern

    • A more traditional or high-end appearance

    • A heavier, more substantial feel

    It’s best suited for people who appreciate natural materials and are comfortable taking a bit of extra care to protect it.

  • A:
    Laminated wood (or bent wood) is a great choice if you want:

    • Increased stability over time

    • Resistance to cracking or warping

    • More design flexibility.

  • A:
    Yes. Solid wood has continuous grain that runs through the entire piece, creating a seamless look without visible layers or joints.

    Laminated wood can still look high quality, but it may show layering depending on the design.

  • A:
    No. Laminated construction is not lower quality—it’s simply a different method. In many cases, it’s chosen specifically for its stability and ability to achieve designs that solid wood cannot.

  • A:
    Not every type of wood is suitable for both construction methods. The way a wood behaves—its density, grain structure, and natural oil content—can determine whether it works better as a solid piece or as a bent/laminated inlay.

    • For bent/laminated wood:
      The process relies on thin layers being shaped and bonded with adhesive. Some woods—especially those with high oil content or unstable grain—do not bond well or can crack when bent. Because of this, certain species are not reliable in laminated form.

    • For solid wood:
      Solid construction doesn’t rely on adhesives, but it does require wood that can remain stable as a single piece. Some woods may be difficult to source in sizes or cuts suitable for solid rings, or may move more with humidity.

    In many cases, a wood will naturally be better suited to one method over the other. This is why certain materials may only be offered as solid wood rings or as inlays, depending on what will provide the best performance and longevity.

  • A:
    It depends on what matters most to you:

    • Choose solid wood if you want a natural, continuous grain and a traditional look. Keep in mind the wood is fully exposed, so it can show wear over time and should be treated with care.

    • Choose bent/laminated inlay if you want better everyday durability. The wood is typically protected within a metal band, making it more resistant to impacts, moisture, and daily wear, while also allowing for more detailed or complex designs.

    That said, neither option is indestructible—no ring truly is. Any claim otherwise should be taken with caution.

Stones, Inlays & Materials

  • A:
    Yes—there are certain materials we do not work with for safety, ethical, and practical reasons.

    • We do not use anything recently living, including animal or human body parts

    • Ashes are generally not accepted, with limited exceptions depending on the material and condition

    • We do not accept large rocks or boulders, or materials that are impractical to process

    • All submitted materials must be clean, dry, and free of debris or contamination

    There are a few limited exceptions for safe, stable materials:

    • Non-toxic, fully dried plant materials, typically those considered safe to handle (generally edible-grade)

    • Clean, dry hair in small, controlled amounts (no clumps or contamination)

    For practical handling and processing:

    • All minerals and similar materials must be no larger than approximately a marble in thickness and no wider than a loonie, even if further processing is required

    If submitted materials do not meet these requirements, they will be declined and any associated timeline will be paused until suitable replacements are provided.

  • A:
    We work with a wide range of natural and specialty materials, including:

    • Stone and minerals (such as turquoise or lapis lazuli)

    • Opals and other decorative materials

    • Meteorite and fossil-based materials

    • Crushed, layered, or composite inlays

    Depending on the design, we may also incorporate rare, reclaimed, or one-off materials, so some pieces will feature unique elements not found in our standard lineup.

    Each material is selected for its appearance, durability, and how it works within the ring structure.

  • No—each ring is unique.

    Natural materials like stone, wood, and meteorite vary in color, pattern, and texture. While the overall style will match the design, no two rings will ever be identical, and that variation is part of what makes each piece one of a kind.

  • A:
    Durability depends on the material used:

    • Some materials are naturally harder and more resistant to wear

    • Others are softer or more delicate and require a bit more awareness

    In most designs, the inlay is set and protected within a metal or ceramic band, helping shield it from direct impact during everyday wear.

    In addition, our inlays are typically set slightly below the surface and sealed with a protective resin layer. This creates a barrier between the material and the outside environment, helping protect it from moisture, wear, and minor impacts.

    This method requires significantly more time and precision compared to flush-set inlays, but it also provides two major benefits:

    • Improved lifespan by reducing direct exposure to damage

    • Better repairability, as the surface can be re-buffed and refinished if needed

    That said, no inlay material is completely immune to damage, especially under heavy use.

  • A:
    Some materials may be stabilized or treated to improve strength, longevity, or workability.

    This can include processes like resin stabilization or bonding smaller particles together. These methods are commonly used in jewelry-making and help ensure the material performs well in a ring.

  • A:
    Inlays are typically:

    • Carefully set, bonded, and shaped into the ring

    • Built using combinations of crushed materials, layered elements, and various materials depending on the design

    • Set slightly below the surface and sealed under a protective layer to help reduce direct exposure to everyday wear

    • Finished through multiple stages of buffing and polishing, bringing both the material and protective surface to a near glass-like finish (up to ~20,000 grit equivalent)

    The result is a clean, durable surface that allows for detailed and unique patterns while maintaining long-term performance.

  • A:
    Yes—while designed for everyday wear, inlays benefit from reasonable care:

    • Avoid hard impacts against metal, stone, or other rigid surfaces

    • Remove the ring during heavy work or activities where it could take direct stress

    • Avoid direct contact with harsh chemicals such as hand sanitizer and other solvents.

    Different materials behave differently, but in general, treating the ring with care will help maintain its appearance over time.

  • A:
    Most inlays are sealed and protected, especially when set within a metal or ceramic ring.

    However, like any handcrafted item using natural or composite materials, they are not considered fully waterproof, and long-term exposure to moisture should be avoided where possible.

  • A:
    No—no inlay material is indestructible.

    Some materials are more durable than others, but all inlays can be damaged under the right conditions, especially with impact or heavy wear.

    Nothing is truly invincible—any claim otherwise is likely more marketing than reality.

Key chains

  • A: To refill your lighter:

    1. Remove the lighter insert from the case

    2. Locate the filler material (typically cotton inside the insert)

    3. Slowly add lighter fluid until the material is saturated (avoid overfilling)

    4. Let it sit briefly, then reassemble before use

    For best results, use high-quality lighter fluid and avoid overfilling, which can cause leaking or poor performance.

    Video guide: YouTube link

  • A: To replace the flint:

    1. Remove the insert from the case

    2. Unscrew the spring-loaded screw at the base of the insert

    3. Remove the old flint (if present)

    4. Insert a new flint into the tube

    5. Reinstall the spring and screw, then tighten securely

    After replacement, spin the wheel a few times to ensure proper contact.

    Video guide: YouTube link

  • A:

    • Use standard lighter fluid (Zippo-style fuel works well)

    • Use standard replacement flints designed for refillable lighters

    Avoid substitutes or improvised materials, as they may affect performance or damage the lighter.

  • A:

    This depends on use, but generally:

    • Refill fuel as needed (varies with frequency of use)

    • Replace the flint when ignition becomes inconsistent

    • Keep the insert clean and dry

    Like any mechanical item, regular light maintenance keeps it working reliably.

  • A: No—while the casing may offer some resistance to moisture, the lighter itself is not waterproof. Exposure to water can affect performance and ignition.

  • A:

    These are designed for small, dry items, such as:

    • Paper (notes, emergency info, contact details)

    • Medications (small tablets or pills)

    • Mints or other small consumables

    • Sewing needles or small repair items

    • Matches or fire-starting materials

    • Sentimental materials such as a small amount of soil or sand from a meaningful place

    • A small portion of ashes or clean pet hair, kept close for personal or memorial reasons

    • Other compact materials that fit within the available space

    These compartments are often used to carry something personal—whether practical or meaningful—so you can keep it with you wherever you go. Capacity varies depending on the design.

  • A: They are typically water-resistant, but not fully waterproof.

    They are designed to protect contents from everyday exposure, but should not be submerged or relied on for long-term moisture protection.

  • A: Yes—avoid storing:

    • Wet or damp items

    • Anything that could leak, degrade, or contaminate the interior

    • Materials that may expand, break down, or damage the compartment

    • Salt or corrosive materials

    Keeping contents clean and dry will help maintain the product over time.

  • A: They are built for everyday use, but like any item carried daily:

    • They are not indestructible

    • Wear will depend on use, environment, and handling

    • Avoid excessive force or impacts to preserve both function and appearance

  • A:

    If you’re carrying a single small item, you can reduce movement by using a small piece of rolled paper towel or similar soft material.

    • Place the item inside the compartment

    • Add a small rolled piece of paper towel to gently hold it in place

    • Lightly seat the tip of the paper into the cap area so it stays secure

    Make sure the material does not interfere with opening the compartment, and that you can quickly remove it when needed—especially if the item is for emergency use (such as medication).

    You are ultimately responsible for understanding how to store and access your items safely and effectively.

Other

  • A:
    Meteorite and other exotic materials are naturally unique and can vary significantly in appearance:

    • Patterns (such as those found in iron meteorites) are naturally occurring and make each piece one of a kind

    • These materials may show variation in texture, tone, and structure compared to more conventional inlays

    Because of their composition, some materials—like meteorite—require additional protection to maintain their appearance over time.

  • A:
    Some materials, especially iron-based meteorites, are naturally reactive and can change if left unprotected.

    To address this:

    • Materials are typically sealed or stabilized during the finishing process

    • In many designs, they are also encapsulated within a protective layer, helping reduce exposure to moisture and wear

    Even with protection, proper care will help maintain their appearance long-term.

  • A:
    Resins play an important role in many designs:

    • Used to bind, stabilize, and protect inlay materials

    • Allow for the use of crushed, layered, or delicate materials that would otherwise not hold up in a ring

    • Can be combined with pigments, metal dust, or other elements to enhance appearance

    They are selected for clarity, durability, and how well they perform under everyday wear.

  • A:
    In many cases, yes.

    Because the surface is built up and finished in layers, it can often be:

    • Re-buffed or refinished

    • Repaired without fully replacing the entire inlay, depending on the damage

    This is one of the advantages of using a sealed, layered construction method.

  • A:
    Rings are finished to a high standard depending on the design:

    • Surfaces are typically polished to a smooth, high-gloss finish

    • Inlays and protective layers are buffed through multiple stages to achieve clarity and depth

    The goal is a clean, refined appearance that enhances both the material and the overall design.

  • A:
    Rings are shaped with wearability in mind:

    • Interior profiles are typically designed for a comfortable fit over long periods

    • Edges and transitions are finished to feel smooth and natural on the hand

    Each piece is checked during finishing to ensure consistency in fit and feel.

  • A:
    Where possible, materials are selected with attention to sourcing, quality, and responsible use:

    • Materials may be reclaimed, salvaged, or naturally sourced when available

    • Each piece is made in small batches or individually, rather than mass-produced

    • We aim to work as close to the original source or supplier as practical, prioritizing consistency and material quality

    • When manufactured components are required (for example, small parts like lighter flints or specialty hardware such as carabiners), they are sourced from suppliers that meet reliable quality and labour standards, including partners in Canada and select international regions

    Because of the variety of materials used, sourcing details may vary depending on the design, but the focus remains on quality, consistency, and responsible selection.

    All rings are fully made in-house in Canada. For other products, certain specialized components may be sourced from trusted suppliers, while all design, assembly, and finishing remain under our direct control.

Important Information & Disclaimer

All products are designed for general use and personal carry. By using these items, you accept responsibility for their safe handling, storage, and use.

Materials used may include natural, composite, or manufactured components, and may vary in performance depending on use, environment, and care. No product is indestructible, damage-proof, or guaranteed against wear over time.

Products such as rings, keychains, lighters, and storage compartments are not intended as safety devices or for critical, medical, or emergency reliance. Any use involving fuel, small parts, or stored materials (including medications or personal items) should be done with caution and proper understanding of their use.

While guidance is provided throughout this FAQ, it is the user’s responsibility to ensure items are used appropriately and that access to stored contents—especially in emergency situations—is not obstructed.

When traveling, including air travel or crossing borders, it is the user’s responsibility to ensure compliance with all applicable laws and regulations. This includes the storage, labeling, and transport of any contents such as medications or restricted items. Requirements may vary by jurisdiction, and users should verify rules before travel.

Vandenberg Woodcraft is not responsible for misuse, improper handling, modification, or failure to follow safe and reasonable use practices.

Users are responsible for determining the suitability of any product for their intended purpose.