When searching for the perfect classic black paint color, two popular options are Sherwin Williams Iron Ore SW 7069 and Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron 2124-10. At first glance they appear quite similar, but differences emerge upon closer inspection.
In this article, we’ll analyze Iron Ore and Wrought Iron in depth, comparing undertones, light reflectance, real photos, and room pairings. Read on to determine whether rich Iron Ore or intense Wrought Iron is the best black paint color for your home.
Table of Contents
Key Differences Between Iron Ore and Wrought Iron
Before diving into the nuances, here are the main differences between Iron Ore and Wrought Iron:
- Undertones – Iron Ore is a brown black, Wrought Iron is a true black
- Light Reflectance – Iron Ore has an LRV of 6, Wrought Iron has an LRV of 8.17
- Use – Iron Ore for a softer black, Wrought Iron for maximum drama
- Rooms – Iron Ore ideal for living rooms, Wrought Iron perfect for dining rooms
Now let’s explore Iron Ore and Wrought Iron more closely.
Sherwin Williams Iron Ore SW 7069
With its dark brown-black appearance, Iron Ore SW 7069 creates a rich, elegant backdrop. This deep color has broad appeal.
Here are some key details about Sherwin Williams Iron Ore:
- LRV: 6
- Undertones: Black with brown
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Living rooms, bedrooms, offices
- Pairings: Browns, beiges, grays
Iron Ore is a very dark black that takes on brown and red undertones in certain lights. In most environments it appears as classic black. But its subtle warmth gives it more versatility than cooler blacks.
With a 6 light reflectance value, Iron Ore supplies very little illumination. The barely noticeable depth from its brown influence keeps it feeling sophisticated.
Iron Ore works beautifully as a dramatic black for feature walls or accents. It also pairs nicely with both cool and warm neutrals:
- Sherwin Williams Pure White
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray
- Sherwin Williams Worldly Gray
- Sherwin Williams Agreeable Gray
Use Iron Ore to add striking elegance to any space. Its warm black tone excels when used thoughtfully.
Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron 2124-10
With its intense black appearance, Wrought Iron 2124-10 creates a bold, dramatic backdrop. This true black is popular for its classic look.
Here are some key details about Benjamin Moore Wrought Iron:
- LRV: 8.17
- Undertones: True black
- Finish: Available in all sheens
- Rooms: Dining rooms, offices, accents
- Pairings: Whites, grays, bright colors
Wrought Iron is about as true a black as paint colors get. In all lighting it appears classic black without discernible undertones coming through.
With a 8.17 light reflectance value, Wrought Iron offers very minimal illumination. The lack of undertones makes this black highly versatile. Popular pairings include:
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace
- Benjamin Moore White Dove
- Benjamin Moore Gray Owl
- Vibrant accent colors
Thanks to its intense shade, Wrought Iron works well when used thoughtfully on accent walls or to make architectural details pop. Its true black adds drama anywhere.
Comparing Iron Ore vs. Wrought Iron
Now that we’ve examined their unique traits, let’s directly compare Iron Ore and Wrought Iron:
Light Reflectance
Iron Ore and Wrought Iron have similar extremely low light reflectance at 6 and 8.17 LRV respectively. Both absorb light dramatically.
Undertones
This is a subtle distinction. Iron Ore has faint brown-black undertones, while Wrought Iron is a true neutral black.
Iron Ore’s subtle warmth provides a sophisticated vibe. Wrought Iron’s pure black offers classic versatility.
Use
Iron Ore works well for elegant spaces seeking black with a touch of warmth. Wrought Iron’s true black offers maximum drama through contrast.
Paint Finish
Both Iron Ore and Wrought Iron come in any sheen from matte to high-gloss. They allow for beautiful, artistic finishes.
Iron Ore vs. Wrought Iron Comparison Chart
Here is an overview of how Iron Ore and Wrought Iron compare:
| Paint Color | Iron Ore SW 7069 | Wrought Iron 2124-10 |
|---|---|---|
| LRV | 6 | 8.17 |
| Undertones | Black with brown | True black |
| Use | Sophisticated black accents | High contrast black accents |
| Sheen | Any finish | Any finish |
| Style | Rich, elegant | Bold, intense |
Real Photos: Iron Ore vs Wrought Iron
To better visualize the differences, here are real photos of Iron Ore and Wrought Iron:
Iron Ore
Wrought Iron
As shown, Iron Ore can take on brownish tones in some lighting, while Wrought Iron appears as a true black. But environments impact their look.
Should I Choose Iron Ore or Wrought Iron?
So how do you decide between Iron Ore vs Wrought Iron for your home? Here are some helpful tips:
Consider Iron Ore if you want:
- A black with subtle warm brown undertones
- A rich, sophisticated feel
- Feature walls or accents with a touch of elegance
- Black to pair with warm neutrals
Consider Wrought Iron if you want:
- A true intense black with no undertones
- Maximum drama and bold contrast
- Black accents that stand out
- A classic, versatile black for any use
As with any close paint decision, get samples before deciding. Lighting impacts black’s appearance and depth.
Either way, you’ll end up with a beautiful, artistic black paint color.
Ideal Room Pairings
Here are rooms well-suited to showcasing Iron Ore and Wrought Iron:
Iron Ore SW 7069
- Stylish living rooms
- Refined offices
- Sophisticated bedrooms
- Dramatic bathrooms
- Elegant dining rooms
Wrought Iron 2124-10
- Bold dining rooms
- Dramatic offices
- Artsy bedrooms
- High-contrast bathrooms
- Painted accent furniture
While flexible enough for any space, warm Iron Ore excels in living rooms and Wrought Iron shines when used strategically.
Decorating Ideas and Color Pairings
Iron Ore and Wrought Iron create dramatic backdrops when used thoughtfully. Pair them with lighter tones like these:
Iron Ore Color Pairings
- Sherwin Williams Pure White (white)
- Sherwin Williams Repose Gray (gray)
- Sherwin Williams Latte (beige)
- Brass metallic accents
Wrought Iron Color Pairings
- Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace (white)
- Benjamin Moore White Dove (white)
- Benjamin Moore Gray Owl (gray)
- Gold finishes
Lighter accents will make these deep blacks pop while adding needed brightness.
Iron Ore vs Wrought Iron: Which is Best for Your Home?
So which black paint color works best in your home – rich Iron Ore or intense Wrought Iron? Consider the following:
Choose Iron Ore if you want:
- A black with subtle brown undertones
- A sophisticated, elegant feel
- Black to pair with warm neutrals
Choose Wrought Iron if you want:
- A true intense black with no undertones
- Maximum drama through bold contrast
- A classic black for any use
While similar, Iron Ore generally offers more warmth, while Wrought Iron provides true, versatile black. Test them before deciding! Either one makes a beautiful, artistic black paint color.
Frequently Asked Questions
Still trying to choose between Iron Ore vs Wrought Iron? Here are some helpful answers:
Does Iron Ore have red undertones?
Iron Ore is predominantly a black with subtle brown undertones. In certain lights, it may take on very faint red or purple hints, but its base tone remains a warm black.
What colors complement Wrought Iron?
With its true black shade, Wrought Iron pairs beautifully with clean whites, light grays, and bright accent colors. Strong contrasts make it stand out.
Should I use Iron Ore in a living room?
Yes, Iron Ore is perfect for living rooms! Its subtle warm richness provides an elegant, sophisticated living room backdrop when used thoughtfully.
Is Wrought Iron suitable for a dining room?
Definitely! With its dramatic true black tone, Wrought Iron makes a gorgeous accent wall or dining room feature. It complements silver and glassware.
Does Iron Ore brighten up a dark space?
No, with a very low 6 LRV Iron Ore will darken any space. Use plenty of properly placed lighting and balance it with lighter accents to keep spaces bright.
