The present invention relates to complex security elements based on recording materials for optical elements with refractive index modulation, in particular, holograms, which are subsequently coated with specific metallic nano-shaped metal particles, a method for their manufacture, in particular on a paper or on a plastic substrate and a security product obtainable using the security element. A further aspect of the invention is the use of such a security element for the prevention of counterfeit or reproduction of a document of value.