Interesting coincidence, I just happen to make maille jewelry myself. Through polishing you should be able to get your stainless to a mirror finish. Different suppliers also offer different grades of finish on their wire I usually purchase my wire and rings from theringlord.com and I have had no problems with the very shiny finish.
There are also many other metals to consider using such as inconel, bright aluminum and sterling silver, which are all naturally much shiner and brighter looking than any type of steel.
If you must have plated rings then I can make several suggestions,
1. Use chrome, many people have nickel allergies.
2. Plate the rings first then weave them.
3. Advise your customers that the plating WILL eventually flake off.
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