Ring shanks
There are many different types of ring shanks. This section introduces the most common styles used in jewellery.
Flat

A flat shank has the same width all the way around.
Tapered

A tapered shank starts wider and narrows towards the top.
Splitted

A split shank is a single ring band that divides into two narrower bands.
Bypass

A bypass shank has an open design where the ends of the ring curve around the gemstone setting.
Pinched

A pinched shank has a flat profile, but the band narrows slightly just before the ends meet.
Double shank

A double shank is typically made by soldering two wires side by side.
Flat Rectangular

A flat rectangular shank has a flat exterior with a rectangular cross-section.
Half-round

A half-round shank is flat on the inside and rounded on the outside.
Oval

An oval shank has an oval cross-section throughout the band.
Round

A round shank is completely round and it is typically made from round wire.
Comfort

A comfort-fit shank has a rounded inner surface and a flat outer surface.
Knife

A knife-edge shank has a flat inner surface, while the outer surface forms a raised ridge with a triangular profile.