Abs Nickel Plating can be achieved via 2 methods - "electrolytic" and "electro-less". Nickel plating plays a major role in surface finishing for decorative purposes. Nickel provides the 'substance' of the coating as it predominantly provides the hardness and corrosion resistance to the surface. Though sometimes used as a 'final finish' it is more common for nickel to be applied as the "undercoat" beneath final finishes such as silver, gold or chrome. The nickel solution type used in the finishing process determines the level of brightness of the finished product. Some nickel solutions result in a matt or 'satin' finish.