Are gold plated humbucking pickups really plated with gold, or is it just referring to the color of the pickup ? Hope someone can help me on this , thanks
Yes they are, it's a very thin layer with nickle usually underneath, then brass. I know, I've worn the gold plating off many times. It's not too durable.
Some manufacturers are now using a different composite that gives the look of gold but is much more durable
Real gold is soft - it wears off easily. Most American made hardware uses a heavier, more yellow gold, usually around 20 karats. Asian stuff is brighter gold, usually around 10 karats.