Split Shank Engagement Ring Guide

In the world of engagement rings, the split shank setting stands as a unique and captivating choice. This comprehensive guide will explore its origins, design variations, advantages, disadvantages, history, celebrities with split shank rings, and tips for choosing the perfect ring that reflects your unique style and eternal commitment.

Custom east west emerald diamond engagement ring yellow gold with split diamond pave shank band

What is a split shank design style?

A split shank is a distinctive design style where the band of the ring divides into two or more strands as it reaches the basket of the ring where its centre stone sits. This creates an open, often V-shaped space, enhancing the prominence of the gemstone.

The split shank can be adorned with intricate metalwork, accent gemstones, or other design elements. This setting style blends vintage charm with modern elegance, offering complete versatility. Split shank engagement rings allow for increased light exposure to the centre stone, maximising its brilliance and creating a captivating visual impact, filled with lots of light reflection and that ever-sought-after sparkle.

Split shank origins and evolution

The split shank engagement ring design has its roots in vintage and antique jewellery styles. Prominently seen throughout jewellery design of the Art Nouveau and Edwardian eras, this setting gained its reputation due to its intricate metalwork and ability to highlight the centre stone. Over time, contemporary jewellers have reimagined and modernised the split shank style, making it a popular choice among couples seeking a balance of vintage charm and modern aesthetics.

Anatomy of a split shank

The defining feature of a split shank engagement ring is the band that divides into two or more strands as it approaches the centre stone. This split creates an open space that places the attention on the centre gemstone, allowing light to enter and exit the centre diamond or precious gemstone from various angles. The split shank can be simple or elaborate, from polished metal to intricate engraving, filigree or adorned with pavé gemstones.

Split shank design variations

The versatility of split shank engagement rings offers a range of design options to suit a whole range of style preferences:

Solitaire Split Shank: This classic design features a single centre stone with a polished metal band that splits elegantly into two strands as it approaches the gemstone. The open design enhances the stone’s prominence and places it on centre stage–just as it should be.

Halo Split Shank: Combining the allure of a halo setting with a split shank, this design features a centre stone that is encircled by smaller diamonds, accentuating its brilliance and creating a captivating visual effect. Outside the halo, the band does exactly as it would on the solitaire split shank, with the band splitting into two or more strands as it approaches the centre basket of the design. The only exception is that the band could be polished metal or set with diamond or gemstone melee stones in a pavé style.

Three-Stone Split Shank: This design incorporates a trio of centre gemstones, often consisting of a larger middle stone flanked by two smaller side stones. The split shank adds an extra layer of elegance to this already enchanting arrangement, while enhancing the prominence of the centre three gemstones.

Twisted Split Shank: The bands of the split shank twist around each other, creating an intricate and dynamic visual effect. This design can enhance the ring’s uniqueness and add a touch of contemporary style.Pavé Split Shank: The strands of the split shank are adorned with pave-set diamonds, adding sparkle and luxury to the band itself while highlighting the centre gemstone.

Our most beloved split shank engagement ring designs

Advantages of split shank engagement rings

The split shank setting offers several advantages that contribute to its enduring popularity:

Enhanced brilliance: The open design of the split shank allows an optimal level of light to enter the center stone from different angles. The more light that enters a stone, means the higher the level of light reflection within the stone which maximises the brilliance and sparkle exhibited.

Customisation: The versatile design of split shank rings allows for personalisation, which is what we’re all about. Your engagement ring design should reflect the extraordinary love story shared between you and your partner. Customisations can include metal type, gemstone accents, band widths, textures, and personalised inscriptions, enabling couples to create a ring that symbolises their relationship.

Vintage appeal: The split shank design is rooted in vintage and antique jewellery styles, appealing to those who appreciate timeless charm.

Visual impact: The split shank creates a visually striking effect that draws attention to the centre stone, making it an ideal choice for those who want their ring to make a statement.

Illusion of size: Much like the halo style, the split shank can create the illusion of a larger centre stone, enhancing the overall visual impact without the need for a larger gemstone.

Disadvantages of split shank engagement rings

While split shank engagement rings offer numerous benefits, they also come with a few disadvantages to consider:

Prone to snagging: The more open a ring design, the more prong it is to snagging. Greater amounts of negative space gives more edges and corners that are likely to get worn down and/or snag on clothing, hair or other objects which can lead to potential damage.

If well-looked after, a split shank ring will last a lifetime and beyond. The level of our meticulous craftsmanship also promises longevity and durability, as each ring is the result of artisanal methods, handcrafting skills and cutting-edge technology.

Cleaning challenges: The intricate metalwork and open spaces in split shank rings can make cleaning more challenging, as dirt, debris and general build up of lotions etc. may accumulate in hard-to-reach areas.

We totally understand that we all need a little pampering every now and again. That’s why we recommend having your ring cleaned and inspected every year to extend the life of your jewellery, but to also keep it looking good as new.

Symphony round diamond split shank diamond pave engagement ring

Tips for choosing the perfect split shank engagement ring

Centre stone choice: Consider the gemstone type, shape, and size that best aligns with your style and budget. Diamonds, sapphires, rubies or emeralds are popular choices.

Metal selection: Choose a metal type that complements your skin tone and personal preferences. Do you keep a very classic monochrome wardrobe? It’s likely best to choose a classic like platinum or yellow gold rather than opting for something more contemporary like rose gold. Love colour and bold patterns? Choose something warm over the cool tones of platinum or white gold.

Band width: The width of the split shank band can significantly impact the overall look of the ring. Opt for a width that balances your finger size, personal style and how often you use your hands for activities that may impact your ring.

Gemstone accents: Decide whether you want additional gemstones, such as pave-set diamonds, along the split shank or surrounding the centre stone to add extra brilliance and scintillation.

Matching wedding band: Consider how your split shank engagement ring will pair with a wedding band. Some rings may require custom-fitted wedding bands to achieve a seamless fit, which is totally achievable.

Comfort and wearability: Ensure that the split shank design is comfortable for everyday wear and doesn’t snag on clothing or objects.

Celebrities with split shank engagement rings

Several celebrities have embraced the enchanting beauty of split shank engagement rings:

Beyoncé: Estimated to be over a whopping 20 carats, Beyonce’s engagement ring features a striking emerald cut centre diamond held in place by a diamond pavé split shank setting.

Katie Holmes: Katie Holmes received a split shank engagement ring from now-ex Tom Cruise, featuring an oval-cut centre diamond with diamond pavé split band.

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Wide split shank yellow gold engagemnet ring with round diamond and hexagonal basket detail

Caring for split shank engagement rings

To maintain the beauty of your split shank engagement ring, follow these care guidelines:

Regular cleaning: We all need a pamper now and again. You can easily clean your ring from the comfort of your own home. Read more about how to clean your ring at home here.

Professional maintenance: Schedule annual checkups with your jeweller to inspect the split shank, prongs/claws, and gemstones for any signs of wear or damage.

If you’re based in the UK, US or EU, you can send back or drop in your ring yearly as part of your lifetime annual care package.

Safe storage: Store the ring separately in a jewellery box or soft cloth pouch to prevent scratching up against other items and to prevent damage.

Avoid harsh treatment: Platinum and gold are durable, but that doesn’t mean they’re invincible. Remove the ring when using cleaning agents or engaging in activities that may expose it to chemicals or abrasive products.

Insurance: Consider insuring your engagement ring to protect it against loss, theft, or damage. It’s better to be safe than sorry.

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