Oxidized Silver Ring: Understanding Oxidation and Longevity

Question
Hi Melinda,
My partner bought me a beautiful oxidized silver ring with a
stone as an engagement ring. After wearing it for a week,
the oxidation had left on parts of the ring (not around the
stone) and he sent it back to the store. They initially said
that they could make a permanent oxidazation, but are now
saying that it will wear off in about a year. We both really
love the ring and are trying to decide whether to keep it.  
My questions are
1. is it probable that the oxidasation will last for a year?
2. is there a limit on how many times we can re-oxidize
it?
Thank you very much for your help!
Best,
Malena

Answer
Oxidation and antiquing can wear off.  It will depend on the surfaces of the design, how active the wearer of the piece is, what types of cleaners and chemicals get in it, the acidity of your skin, etc.   There are many factors.  

It could also be that they are using black rhodium plating to give it an oxidized look.  That would hold up longer than antiquing will.  

One thing I can suggest is don't soak it in any cleaner or brush the areas that are antiqued too often as this will wear it off more quickly.  To keep your diamond clean just use a commercial jewelry solution, or winded, or Mr. Clean mixed with water.  Brush the diamond with a soft toothbrush and the cleaning solution and rinse and dry.  

You can have a ring re-oxidized, antiqued or re-rhodium plated as often as you'd like without hurting it.  

Good luck.