Thanks, but now it’s my turn, I’m wishing I made this. 
First off, I’ll say that I think they look great, and that I wouldn’t change a thing. The contrast level you ended up with is really nice, very subtle.
The darker the wood the better for this, I’ve noticed. Wenge is another good option, but it’s also rare and expensive. Walnut’s my go to these days, especially some figured Walnut from Kim Oberlin – it is a bit darker than some of my other walnut. It’s the same stuff I used on the bee tray corners.
(Wenge tabs:
Gift box for my Aries sister )