Gold does not oxidize the way silver does, and that property serves a structural purpose in gold over silver: the exterior layer shields the silver base from the oxidation process that would otherwise cause tarnishing.
Care & Keeping
The plating layer is thin, and abrasion from direct contact with other metal surfaces cuts through it faster than normal wear: soft pouches and lined compartments eliminate that friction entirely.
Skilled Craftsmanship
Italy did not rely on apprenticeship alone to preserve its goldsmithing traditions. Scuole orafe (goldsmith schools) emerged in the major jewelry districts of Vicenza, Arezzo, Valenza and others, to formalize training and pass down specialized techniques from masters to successors.