Buying your Engagement Ring is one of the most exciting purchases of your life, but some of the technical descriptions can be a little confusing, unless you're a jeweler! While some are obvious, others are harder to figure out, so here's our quick guide to help you get up to speed with the basics.
MAIN ELEMENTS OF A RING
Shank or band – The shank or band of a ring refers to the circular part of the ring that encircles the finger. It is typically made of metal and can vary in width, thickness, and design. The shank supports the setting and any Diamonds or decorative elements on the ring., in any metal and is the part that will bear any hallmark.
Side stones – The side stones of a ring are smaller Diamonds that are set on either side of the central or main stone. These stones are often used to enhance the overall appearance and brilliance of the ring, adding extra sparkle and visual interest. Side stones can be diamonds or other gemstones, and they are commonly used in engagement rings, anniversary rings, and other fine jewelry pieces.
Centre stone – is quite self explanatory! It’s the main and usually the biggest stone in the ring.
Head – The head of a ring setting refers to the part of the ring that holds the Diamond. It typically consists of prongs or a bezel that secures the stone in place, elevating it above the band. The design of the head can vary to enhance the stone's appearance, maximize light reflection, and ensure security.
Prongs – Prongs of a ring are small metal projections or claws that hold a gemstone securely in place. Typically made of the same metal as the band, they grip the stone from various angles, allowing maximum light to pass through it, enhancing its sparkle. Prongs are a common feature in engagement rings and can come in various configurations such as four-prong, six-prong, or more, depending on the design and size of the gemstone.
Shoulders - The shoulders of a ring refer to the parts of the band that extend from the shank (the main band of the ring) up to the setting that holds the Diamond or centerpiece. They provide structural support and often feature decorative elements to enhance the ring's overall design. The shoulders can be simple or embellished, depending on the style of the ring.
Gallery - The Gallery of the Ring is an architectural term that refers to a circular or semi-circular corridor in a building, often used in theaters, concert halls, or museums. It typically provides access to seating or exhibition areas and allows for the circulation of people around a central space. This gallery design enhances both the aesthetic appeal and the functionality of the structure.
Sizing Area - The sizing area of a ring refers to the portion of the ring's shank (band) that is adjusted to change the ring's size. This area is typically found at the bottom of the ring's shank, where it can be cut and either added to or removed to resize the ring. The sizing area should be free of intricate designs or stones to facilitate easier resizing.