It has nothing to do with time periods or not.... Many people who had the ribbons a year ago, and stopped playing got back on and still had their ribbons. While Mine lasted for about 3 months, even though I consistently got honored throughout. I understand the wearing it like a proud Badge, I feel the same. I'm really upset that riot took my ribbon away a year and a half ago. They told me it was easier to earn back than the first time..... But it's actually harder. I earned my 3 ribbons withing 6 months of playing. My boyfriend who hasn't played in forever, still has all his. I also have seen a LOT less ribbons than what they used to. None of my friends or anyone else really, got a ribbon recently that I know of. I heard their ribbons are from 6 months ago or more....
Sorry for the rambling.... this is kinda of a sore subject for me.... I also know it has nothing to do with the amount of honors you have ( mine are: helpful- 107;Teamwork- 529;Honorable opponent- 374; and friendly- 124)