metalliclooking

Metalliclooking is an adjective used to describe surfaces, materials, or products that resemble metal in appearance. This includes high reflectivity, a metallic luster, and colors such as silver, gold, bronze, or copper, which may be achieved with real metal or with non-metal coatings and pigments.

Common methods to create a metallic-looking finish include application of metallic pigments (aluminum flakes or copper pigments) in paints or plastics, pearlescent or interference pigments that create color shifts with angle, vacuum metallization or electroplating for true metal layers, chrome or brushed metal methods, and metallized films or foils used on packaging.

Metallic-looking does not imply actual metal content. Real metals conduct electricity and heat well and may corrode; metallic-looking finishes may be less durable, susceptible to fading, chipping, or dulling, and may require protective coatings. The perceived color and brightness depend on lighting and viewing angle.

Applications span consumer goods, automotive and aerospace interior trims, architecture, cosmetics (shimmer lip and eye products), and art or design where metal aesthetics are desired without weight, cost, or corrosion concerns of true metal.