WORKSHOP | Ring Shank Shapes Explained

The ring's band doesn't taper or split at the ends and maintains the same width, making it the most basic and common type of ring shank.

A wishbone ring has a V-shaped indenture that resembles a wishbone. The shank style is symbolic and is believed to bring good luck, hope, and new beginnings.

A tapered shank is a ring band that becomes thicker as it reaches the setting and stone. This gives the band different widths at different points, giving the ring more shape and making it shine at multiple angles.

As you would expect, this is where the 'shank' is not straight but instead curves slightly to better fit the natural curvature of the finger, providing a more comfortable fit than a traditional straight ring. Also called a 'wave' shank.

The band of this ring has a sharp edge like a sword. The edge can be partial or complete and bordered by accent gemstones on either/or side.

The shank is literally pinched together on either side of the primary stone setting, creating the illusion that the centre stone is more significant than it is.

This shank has a swirling design that circles the primary stone. The swirl design can allow more light to enter the centre stone and can be combined with a bit of split shank for a genuinely spectacular-shaped ring!

The band, or 'shank', features a twisted design that spirals along the part of the ring that encircles the finger, adding a visually interesting element to the overall design.

A split shank ring has a band that splits into two or more strands as it reaches the centre stone. This design creates an open space that draws attention to the gemstone.

The two ends of the shank don't meet in alignment. Instead, each wraps around the stone as though bypassing it and meets the shank on the other side. This helps make the central stone look more significant.

The shank design features two or more strands that cross over each other. The criss-cross design can be used for engagement rings, promise rings, and wedding bands.