Where the
world gathers for metal finishing
Q&As since 1989


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Need Clarification Of All The Various "Black" Finishes

Hi there guys and gals. Like it says, I'm a car enthusiast and I am desperately trying to get my hands on a set of what I believe are "black chrome" wheels. Upon research, however, I have learned that there are many types of "black" finishes/platings. What I am after is a list, a website, a book, WHATEVER I can get explaining all the different types of "black" finishes/platings: black chrome, black chromium, black nickel, black electroless nickel, black oxide, black zinc, etc., etc.

Pictures, obviously, would be of tremendous help. But I'll take anything: descriptions, tips, advice, websites, etc. Feel free to give me ANY information you have, please.

What I am looking for is a "finish/plating" that is highly reflective, such as traditional chrome, but with a black tint. I read on here someone described possibly such a thing as a "smoked chrome." It's black, but very glossy, but also much more reflective than just glossy paint. It's obviously hard to describe, which is why pictures would be of so much help. By the way, is there a difference between "black chrome" and "black chromium"? Or is the only difference the name? Once again, any and all help is tremendously appreciated. Thank you so much.

Phillip Creamer
Car Enthusiast - Chattanooga, TN, United States
2004

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David Fishlocks book Metal Colouring (Teddington,1963) can be very good starting point.

Good luck!

Goran Budija
- Cerovski vrh Croatia
2004