Where can it be found?

Once people realised they could get something out of this unique metal, they realised they needed to get their hands on it. Nickel mines can be found all over the world, from here in Australia, to Russia, Indonesia, USA and New Caledonia. The largest deposit found is actually in Canada. Discovered in 1883, it is nearly 60kms wide and more than 25kms wide. It's believed that this deposit is actually the result of a meteorite. This is because meteorites often have huge quantities of nickel in them.

This has actually led a lot of experts to believe that the Earth's core is made up almost entirely of nickel and iron.

But wait there's more!

You'd think that would be it for one metal. But no, this gorgeous metal is also essential for the health of most plant life. Nickel can be found in nuts, fruits, vegetables and many food products derived from them. That's right. That delicious glass of wine has also been touched by Nickel.

Just remember, as with most things, moderation is the key. Small amounts are everywhere and even essential. Some people react to large amounts of the stuff.

The cool thing is we have managed to find some pretty incredible ways to use Nickel. This is before we even consider the extraordinary value of electroplating.

What makes Nickel so special?

Nickel has some special properties, which makes it useful in a huge range of products.

You can manipulate it - Nickel is incredibly malleable and ductile. You can manipulate it to suit your purposes. In fact, just one kilogram of Nickel can be stretched out to 300kms of wire.

It can fend off the elements - Nickel has super hero skills in resisting corrosion from elements such as sea water and high temperatures. It protects anything it is covering from those same elements.

It's strong - The hardness of Nickel means it can be used for incredibly heavy machinery.

It has magnetic qualities - Nickel can be found in a lot of waste metal, but unlike many of these metals, it responds to magnets. Therefore, we can more easily extract it and recycle it.

It conducts electricity.

It's stunning - need we say more?

Everything, including the kitchen sink

According to the Nickel Institute, 65% of Nickel is used to make stainless steels, 20% to make other steel and non-ferrous alloys, 9% in plating and another 6% in other places. What does that mean? Nickel is used to create and manufacture some of the most fascinating products.

Nickel goes into just about everything. From rockets engines to necklaces, this silvery stunner is everywhere, including the kitchen sick. Nickel can be found in batteries, kitchenware, buildings and electronics. The list is long and the uses never ending. This fine element has most definitely made its mark on the world.

Where do we come in?

So, we've told you 9% of all Nickel is used in plating. Why, you ask? Well, not only does the layer of Nickel protect your product for all the reasons listed above, it has the elegance of silver looks fantastic.

Chic brands such as designer Collette Dinnigan, Polo Ralph Lauren and David Jones, as well as some of Australia's elitist hotels have all used a nickel finish for their interiors. The range of products you can electroplate with Nickel is endless. Light fittings, doorware, kitchenware, fixtures and more.

Whether you are redesigning your home, or giving your brand a facelift, remember Silver's underrated little brother and choose Nickel.

Get in touch with us to find out how you can use Nickel in your design.