Shank
The band of a ring, the part that goes around the finger below the head or setting.
Common shank styles
- Straight, the same width all the way around.
- Tapered, narrowing towards the head to make the centre stone look larger.
- Split, dividing into two strands near the head.
- Knife edge, peaked along the top for a slim, sharp profile.
- Twisted or braided, two or more strands woven together.
- Comfort fit, rounded on the inside so the ring slides on more easily.
Width and thickness
Width is measured across the top of the finger, thickness from the inside surface to the outside. A shank that is too thin may bend over time, while a heavy shank adds metal weight and cost. Use our metal weight calculator with the CAD volume to estimate weight before casting.
Showing the shank in renders
Most product images show the top of a ring, which hides the shank. Add a side profile and a view from slightly below to show the inside curve, any engraving and the comfort fit. If the shank has stones on the shoulders, a three quarter view shows them best.
Polished shanks reflect the environment like a mirror, so a smooth studio environment gives long, clean highlights. Brushed or textured shanks read better with a higher roughness and a more directional light.