The invention relates to a method for the adjustment of the lightness L* of electrolytically deposited chromium-finishes on workpieces obtained by an electroplating bath comprising at least chromium(III)-ions and sulfur containing organic compounds, wherein the concentration of the sulfur containing organic compounds in the bath are adjusted by passing at least part of the bath composition through an activated carbon filter. Furthermore, the invention is directed to dark chrome coatings comprising a defined concentration gradient of deposited sulfur containing organic compounds.