Oxidized silver can be a beautiful addition to your jewelry collection, but it is not just for aesthetic purposes. Oxidized pieces are often made with sterling silver, which means they are durable enough to stand up to everyday wear and tear. In addition, oxidized finishes can help protect your jewelry from tarnishing or fading over time. This post will explore everything you need to know about oxidized jewelry: what it is, how it is made, and how to care for your new piece!

What Is Oxidized Jewelry?

Oxidized jewelry is a type of jewelry that has been exposed to oxygen, causing it to turn black. It is not a type of metal, coating or patina--it is simply the process by which certain metals become oxidized when exposed to air for long periods.

Oxidization happens naturally over time as any metal reacts with its environment; however, you can speed up this process by exposing your silver or gold jewelry pieces directly to oxygen (or something else that contains it) in order to achieve an aesthetic effect similar but not identical to rusting.

What is Oxidized Silver?

Oxidized silver, also known as blackened silver, is a layer of silver that has been oxidized. It may be made by heating the metal to a high temperature and then allowing it to cool slowly in air or water. Another way to create an oxidized finish on jewelry is by putting it in an acid bath.

Oxidized earrings are not the same as blackened copper or bronze earrings; these two processes are used for different metals and result in different finishes with different properties--for example: oxidation makes gold harder but softeners copper; while both sulfuric acid baths (used for blackening) and hydrochloric acid baths (used for verdigris) will corrode silver over time but leave copper untouched if left untreated afterwards!

Understanding the history and properties of oxidized silver can help you care for your jewelry

\In addition to its use in jewelry, oxidized silver has been used throughout history for decorative purposes. For example, during the Renaissance period (14th-16th centuries), it was common for wealthy people to decorate their homes with oxidized silver products such as candlesticks, picture frames and tableware. The term "oxidized" comes from the chemical process of oxidation where oxygen combines with other elements or compounds such as metals like copper or iron--both found in nature--to form an oxide layer on top of these materials' surface areas when exposed over time under certain conditions such as high temperatures combined with humidity levels above 50%. This process results in beautiful colors ranging from browns/greens/purples depending on how long your piece has been exposed before being cleaned off again (usually done manually using polishing cloths).

The benefits of oxidized silver jewelry are clear. It’s easy to care for, it looks beautiful and lasts a lifetime. If you’re looking to add some unique pieces to your collection, we recommend starting with oxidized silver!