The optical properties of black coatings obtained by trivalent chromium and Ni-Cu-Co based electro plating baths were evaluated. The formulations of black coatings were arrived by incorporating of extraneous metals into chromium and nickel. The influence of plating time, bath ingredients, pH and current density were studied. SEM images confirmed the presence of chromium, nickel, copper and cobalt metals in the coatings. The hardness values of black coatings were altered after annealing at 300°C.