For anyone that's interested:
You ever notice how if you cut or scratch a old piece of aluminum the exposed surface is much more shiny then they outside. This is because the outside has oxidized to form Aluminum Oxide (Al2O3). This happens just like rust forms on iron. Anodizing produces a thicker layer of Aluminum Oxide faster then it would otherwise happen.
Because of this I don't think anodized aluminum is as shiny as it is before it was anodized. Jay pointed out a great link describing the advantages of anodizing.
Personally, I think anodized aluminum looks better. Knowing Yan and his situation, I doubt he wants to try and anodize his aluminum part (well, he probably does but it most likely wont happen
). I would suggest cleaning the aluminum with rubbing alcohol then applying a coat or two of normal spray paint. It probably won't be the most durable finish, but it's cheaper then anodizing.
Greg
[If I’m wrong correct me]
Edit:
Here is a good link about the process of anodizing aluminum:
http://www.focuser.com/atm/anodize/anodize99.html
He makes a few mistakes (mistakes a base for an acid!) but by FAR the best anodizing description I could find.