Decorative chrome plating is also called as nickel chrome plating because it always involves electroplating nickel onto the object before plating the chrome. Nickel plating has smoothness, corrosion resistance and is reflective. But chrome plating is exceptionally thin, measured in millionths of an inch rather than in thousandths. When you look at decorative chromium plated surface, like chrome plated wheel or truck bumper, what you actually see is the effect of nickel plating.

The chrome adds a bluish cast, and it protects against tarnish, and minimizes scratching. Some metals like zinc die castings, cannot be directly nickel plated but must be copper plated first. Other materials, like aluminum, cannot be copper plated until they have been zincated. . Decorative chromium plating is applied in many consumer items, including appliances and plumbing fixtures. This finish is also used in many industrial parts, including medical, motorcycle, automotive, and marine items.