How to get high-gloss, decorative finishes?

Hi again,

I was wondering if anyone could enlighten me on what methods are
employed in order to get smooth, glossy finishes on pieces. In
particular, for ornamental type work. What do "those cool jewelery
guys" use?

The main problem I have is that end-mills leave trails.
For flat surfaces, the flycutter does a lovely job, except when
multiple passes are required, in which case the concentric circular
patterns interfere with each other to create various interesting
effects - probably something which if used right could look very good.

I've seen all kinds of deburring tools, diamond-grid wheels and other
such things in various catalogs. What type of tools are generally
used to polish things up? Or is this best done by hand?

Also, how much does any of this really matter if you end up nickel
and then chrome plating a part?