Copper plating  is suitable for both functional and decorative purposes.

The deposit from copper plating is very bright and has excellent levelling properties.

In addition, copper plate naturally kills bacteria. Therefore, copper plating is frequently used to plate laboratory and medical equipment. 

Copper is one of a few coloured metals. It is relatively malleable and can be readily polished to give a pleasing decorative bright finish. However because it is attacked by air and the sulphur and acid compounds in the atmosphere, a lacquer should be applied to maintain its finish.