I was hesitant to order these planters because they were pricey and the reviews weren't all positive.  They are PERFECT.  They arrived quickly and were packaged well, and they are substantial and seem like they will last for a long time. They definitely arrive and look gray - they are in raw steel form.  Mine are sitting outside in the weather and will be perfectly rusted by the time I use them in the spring.  If you need them to be rusted for immediate use, then I highly recommend to follow the guidelines that are shipped with them.  We didn't need to do this, but we have 'quick rusted' other items using hydrogen peroxide and vinegar and it rusts raw steel immediately.  You can YouTube for better directions and amounts.  I would consider buying more of these planters if they are on sale.