Would a gold-plated necklace fade?

All the coatings are done using chemical method. Either it's galvanizing, electrolysis or simple painting. They are all chemical processes. When those coatings come in contact with water, moisture and air, they react and lose their original glamor over time. So yes, depending on how the person handles them they will fade.

From what I know, it will fade and tarnish over time. If they take good care of it and don't use anything abrasive to clean it, it might delay it. No expert here, but some experience with others and their jewelry.

Any particular reason it has to be a necklace made with either silver or gold plating? Is this for a man or woman and, does the gift have to be jewelry?

I don't think I would buy gold plated