Inorganic blackening of metals for decorative and functional purposes is discussed. Electroplating, conversion coating, anodic treatments and chemical coating or dyeing are among the processes available for providing black finishes. The details of these techniques used on bright nickel, brass, copper, steel, aluminum, and zinc are outlined; and the applications of blackening of metals are discussed. (Abstractor's note: This is part of a whole issue devoted to black finishes on metals).