Trends in engagement rings change constantly. Some designs remain very popular for long periods and others go out of style very quickly. However, there is one such design that has been a complete hit with the ladies. This is the split shank engagement ring.
A split shank engagement ring is a ring that typically splits into two separate lines, as it gets closer to the center stone. The gap between the two lines is widest at the center and is filled in with a stunning diamond. Depending on the designer and wearer's preferences, split shank rings can sometimes have three or four strands. While most split shank rings unite beneath the finger, some of them maintain the split all the way around.
The actual design of the split shank ring relies heavily on the size and weight of the main stone. This is what helps the designer determine how many strands they can split the ring into safely. The dimensions of the diamond will also affect how and where the strands of the shank will eventually meet.
In the past 2 decades, the popularity of the split shank engagement ring has skyrocketed. Since this ring is more of an "out-of-the-box" design, it is an extremely popular choice for an engagement ring with couples today.
So, what makes split shank engagement ringsso special? Let us find out!
- Highlights the Main Dimond
Creates the illusion of a larger stone Perhaps the most appealing thing about a split shank engagement ring is that the unique design makes the main stone appear larger. While the thin lines of the split shank allow for more intricate and decorative ways to fashion the ring and the gap in the center provides just enough negative space to enhance the stone in the center of the ring, whatever the stone may be.
So, even if the ring has multiple smaller stones surrounding the main diamond, the split shank creates the illusion of a larger stone.
- Perfect for a Pave Setting
A pave setting is one in which there are thin lines of very small stones that "pave" the border or the edge of the ring. Since split shank engagement rings are typically made up of two (or more) thin lines, a pave setting in this design looks absolutely stunning. The thin lines of the ring allow for multiple lines of pave stones that can accentuate the main stone in the center of the ring, by providing a delicate, yet gorgeous border.
Simply put, the split shank allows for more surface area in the design to fit in smaller stones delicately, which in turn elevates the sparkle and brilliance of the center stone. Playing around with various color combinations in gemstones can give you an unimaginable number of options when you combine a split shank engagement ring with a pave diamond setting.
- Connections to Antique French Jewelry
Split shank engagement rings first became popular during the Art Deco era. They were also a popular choice between the 60s and 70s. It is believed that this design holds connections to antique French jewelry.
Many also believed that this particular style of ring was symbolic in many ways. The split setting is symbolic of two people committing to each other and becoming one unit.While the original design of the split shank ring is very rudimentary and "chunky" is has evolved over the decades into a true thing of beauty.
- Preferred Design for Celebrities
The split shank engagement ring is extremely popular among celebrities and they have not been shy to flaunt their stunning pieces in the recent past. Beyonce showed off her split shank engagement ring with an 18-carat emerald cut diamond, given to her by Jay Z. The ring is estimated to cost around $5 million.
Blake Lively sported a stunning pink oval-cut diamond engagement ring with a split shank band, gifted to her by Ryan Reynolds. The pink stone weighs 7 carats and the overall cost of the ring is estimated to be around $2.5 million. Paris Hilton's engagement ring was a split shank ring featuring a 20-carat pair shaped stone in the center.
All the attention this ring design seems to be getting from celebrities has only made it more appealing to young brides-to-be all over the world.
- The Perfect Blend of Modern and Timeless
With its roots in Art Deco, the split shank engagement ring is more versatile than you think. It has the unique ability to take on an antique timeless look, as well as a posh modern one. The same shank can be split into multiple strands; a range of various colored stones can be used in whatever combination your heart desires. You can also play around with the size, cut, and shape of the main stone until you arrive at the perfect ring.
Another thing to note about this breathtaking design is that it can be made extremely simple and elegant, by keeping as much empty space as possible, or, it can be made extremely striking by adding more strands with a pave setting and a large center stone.
This design can also be paired with stackable engagement rings so you can create a set out of the wedding band and your engagement ring, and flaunt it every day as it sits comfortably on your finger.
Key Benefits of a Split Shank Engagement Ring include
- Durability
- Versatility
- More surface area is equal to more stones
- The perfect statement pieces
A.JAFFE for Engagement Rings
Find stunning, customized engagement rings that are handcrafted only for you by expert designers are A.JAFFE. Whether you want a simple solitaire, coordinates jewelry, stackable engagement rings or a split shank ring, A.JAFFE has got you covered.
For more information, you can reach out to experts on the A.JAFFE team or schedule a showing to get a real feel of what you will be wearing for a lifetime.