Rattlesnake Head Belt Buckle Question

[J.B. Beverley]

Greetings all,

I am new to this forum and am in need of a little help. I was recently given a belt buckle which features a rattlesnake-hide backing, as well as half of the snake's head fastened onto the center of the buckle. The issue that I am having is that I am afraid to wear the buckle without treating it for wear.. It has been treated somewhat, but I fear that if I were to wear it regularly, or if I were to bump it (even lightly) that it might be ruined. I have had some people tell me to use silicone, and others say to use Mink Oil and NEVER to use silicone, but as someone who doesn't perform taxidermy, I am at a loss. If any of you have any suggestions on how to toughen this buckle up a bit for me without costing it aesthetic charm, I'd be most appreciative. I've included a photo here with my post to give you a visual reference.. Thank you in advance.

- J.B. Beverley