Why is it that a set of dark and dull black pipes cost so much more than nice and shiny chrome ones?

 

supply and demand

 

 

Yup, everyone wants black right now, in the future if everyone wants chrome they'll be the more expensive ones.

 

General gouging as usual...

 

It costs more to provide a durable heat resistant black finish than it does a bright shiny chrome one. Chrome is easy, black is technically more challenging.

 

black ceramic coating is more expensive and a longer process. i believe it has to be baked on? i could be wrong about this though.

 

Quite right, think old style enamelled iron bath-tubs. A similar but more modern process.