Oxidised Rings

Oxidised rings are made from silver or alloy and plated with a layer of dark oxidised metal. They have become integral to wardrobes and dressing styles among women looking for unique and fashionable options with an affordable price tag. Amidst the world of jewellery, the oxidised ring is an accessory that boasts of history and culture that goes back centuries. Owning an oxidised ring means keeping an antique craft art alive to cohabitate with contemporary aesthetics. Today in India, although oxidised jewellery is across Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and among the Bhil, Santhal and Gond tribes, its origin and history of oxidised rings can be traced back to the Indus Valley Civilisation, which flourished around 2600-1900 BCE. At Harappa-Mohenjodaro, when metal craftsmen worked with copper and bronze to create utilitarian objects, ceremonial utensils, and artefacts, they soon discovered the metal was changing colour. Later, during the Vedic Age between 1500 BC and 600 BC, the civilisation in the Indo-Gangetic plains introduced the use of silver, iron and gold to make ornaments like rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and amulets. As they continued to wear tarnished rings and other jewellery items, it set the ball rolling for design ideas. Finally, around 1100 AD, for the first time, metalsmiths discovered the art of blackening metal with sulphur, calling it oxidisation. They used this technique to blacken the rings, making them aesthetically pleasing, resistant to corrosion and staining, and increasing their durability. Jewellery oxidisation was not found only in India. It was also part of the ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman civilisations. Men and women in Old Kingdom Egypt wore electrum rings, including the famous scarab design, which contained silver, gold, and copper. Soon, more styles were introduced by the Greeks and Romans, as wearing metal rings became a fashion and status symbol. In the third and fourth centuries AD, blackened or tarnished metal rings became more elaborate with intricate designs and motifs. During the Medieval period from the 5th to 15th century, as metallurgical techniques advanced, Bedouin tribes of the Middle East started to wear elaborate oxidised rings containing semi-precious gemstones, coins, or beads. Later, as the Mughals invaded India, they brought along the arts and architecture of the Middle East. Oxidised silver rings with their distinctive patterns and motifs carrying symbolic meanings re-entered India, becoming an integral part of tribes and traditions. An oxidised ring is a sterling silver ring that undergoes a chemical process to create a black patina or surface covering. Though silver oxidised rings remain a part of India’s rich cultural heritage, they have become a fashion statement. Jewellery designers are giving the traditional oxidised rings a contemporary look that is globally trending and yet boasts of faraway lands and cultures. Today, oxidised rings made of alloy contain 90% copper and 10% silver. These rings are highly affordable and aesthetically pleasing.

How to Style a Oxidised Rings

Oxidised rings have a distinct vintage and antique look that empowers you to express yourself. Though they can be very easily styled with Indian and Western dresses, they have to be treated differently from other rings. 

To style ethnically with sarees, salwars, lehengas, kurtis, or anarkalis, wear a large traditional flower ring studded with gemstones on one finger and a single stone or plain oxidised ring on another. Combine the rings with other oxidised jewellery pieces like jhumkas and necklaces to complete the ethnic look. This look is a go-to for festivals and wedding parties. On the other hand, if you want to style it to create a new-age look, shop for modern oxidised rings. The minimalist and geometric designs blend with contemporary evening gowns and cocktail dresses. Whether off-shoulder or halter, plain or printed, silk or satin, select trending bold statement rings to complete the look. Likewise, you can opt for contemporary oxidised rings to pair with your formal office wear like shirts and trousers, tops, skirts and dresses. At work, to achieve a cohesive finish, complement the rings with your stud earrings or a delicate oxidised pendant. 

For the casual chic look with jeans, cotton dresses, kurtas, or skirts, wear a bold modern ring. Remember, you can achieve an effortlessly cool and balanced look by avoiding overly matching sets. You can even opt for the mixed-metal effect to give it your personal touch. For a boho vibe, oxidised rings are the perfect accessory. Pair them with flowy dresses, floral prints, paisley patterns, tie-and-dye, earthy colours and bright jewel tones. Mix and match or stack up for a fun look. Since the boho style is free-spirited and eclectic, you can wear various kinds of oxidised rings on one hand or both hands. Remember not to overload, but complement them with other boho accessories like oxidised layered necklaces or oxidised tassel earrings. It is all about experimenting with oxidised rings to create your unique look!