How does gold plating improve cable conductivity?

The value of gold plating on cable conductivity is not in its low resistance. True, gold is one of the best conductors there is at room temperature. But it's value lies in its ability to resist corrosion. This can be a critical factor under certain conditions. We find gold plating on circuit board edge connectors and on the pins and sockets of IC's that plug in as well as on cables like those used in A/V setups. The gold plating, which is only a few atoms thick, makes for pretty much worry free connections. But there is one other thing.

A tiny (repeat: tiny) spritz of inexpensive silicone lubricant generally seals out bad stuff in a "normal" indoor cabling application, and it will provide a good shield against corrosion on a non-gold plated cable end. There may be some issues in places where there is excessive indoor air pollution, but the user will have to evaluate variables. In general, many "standard" applications will work just fine without a need for the more expensive gold-plated cable.