When it comes to sharing the rest of your life with someone, the idea of “splitting” should be out of sight and out of mind. Until you start to browse engagement ring styles, that is!
With a distinctive silhouette and a classic yet contemporary style, a split shank engagement ring could be just what you’re looking for. Explore the different variations of this timeless design to find the perfect proposal-ready diamond ring for your blushing bride.
What is a Split Shank Engagement Ring?
The most defining feature of a split shank ring is the band. As the band’s metal approaches the center stone, it splits into two or more distinct strands. This split can be small and subtle, sitting right near the diamond, or wider, which makes a more substantial visual impact. Oftentimes, this gap is filled with smaller accent stones.
When Were Split Shank Engagement Rings Most Popular?
If we’ve learned anything about engagement ring designs, it’s that what goes around, comes around again—and that’s incredibly true for split shank designs! First appearing in 15th-century France in betrothal rings, split shank oval engagement rings were made steadily throughout the years.
It wasn’t the Art Nouveau era at the turn of the 20th century that the design really took off, with jewelers incorporating nature-inspired motifs, flowing lines, and unconventional materials into split shank pieces wherever possible. Though split shank halo engagement rings had a small comeback in the ‘60s and ‘70s, the style eventually faded into the background. But we’re here to tell you that split shank rings are back and better than ever.
Why Do People Love Split Shank Engagement Rings?
With a dramatic frame and a dazzling diamond, split shank engagement rings offer an unbelievably chic look. The unique silhouette offers endless possibilities for design details, whether it be filigree work, custom engravings, or additional stones. Versatile, bold, and beautiful, split shank diamond rings can range from delicate to extravagant, drawing the eye to the stone you spent so much time selecting.
Split shank oval engagement rings can even create the illusion of a more prominent center stone. The negative space draws the eye to the diamond and allows more light into the stone, increasing the brilliance and sparkle. If you’ve chosen a smaller stone, consider having it set into a split shank band to maximize its beauty and make it appear larger than it truly is.
What Do Split Shank Engagement Rings Symbolize?
If you’re searching for a ring that’s as meaningful as it is stylish, you’ll love a split shank oval engagement ring. The two bands represent each of your individual paths as they meet together through the stone in the center and converge into one unified love. Shop the different designs and make a powerful commitment to one another with a ring that embodies your strong future together.
The Best Center Stone Shape for a Split Shank Engagement Ring:
Discovering the Most Popular Variations on Split Shank Engagement Rings
Not all split shank rings are the same! Fine jewelry designers understand that brides don’t all think alike and have worked tirelessly to release innovative and impressive designs to suit a wide variety of tastes. The most popular styles include:
The Basic Single Split Shank Engagement Ring
Just because it’s the most traditional option doesn’t mean it lacks style. The classic single split shank ring has a single band that splits into two before attaching to the center diamond. The little Y-shaped division tends to be plain metal, allowing the diamond to stand out.
The Glittering Pavé Split Shank Engagement Ring
For those interested in a bit more bling, the pavé split shank ring features smaller gemstones on the Y-shaped shanks. Each individual band is covered in extra-small, closely set gemstones to enhance the sparkle. If you want even more, look for a design with diamonds all around the band.
The Split Shank Halo Engagement Ring
The only thing that can make a halo setting even more glamorous? Seeing it in a split shank design!
The split shank halo engagement ring combines the stylish Y-shaped shanks with a surrounding circle of brilliant diamonds around the center stone, both of which help make the ring appear larger and more dazzling. You can find multiple stone shapes set into a split shank halo engagement ring, including the enduringly popular cushion cut or modern pear shape.
The Multi-Row Split Shank Engagement Ring
Are you searching for a statement-making engagement ring for your star-of-the-show sweetheart? Then it’s worth looking into multi-row split shank rings. Instead of two bands, this variation features three or more plain metal or gemstone-adorned strands. If you’re looking for a way to make a split shank halo engagement ring extra glamorous, this is it!
The Twisted Split Shank Engagement Ring
Add an extra layer of visual intrigue and invest in a twisted split shank ring. In these striking designs, the two bands intertwine and weave around one another, resulting in a braid or rope-like texture. The effect is quite dreamy and romantic—perfect for your bride-to-be.
Do Any Other Gemstones Suit a Split Shank Engagement Ring?
If your bride prefers a more modern style, she may not want a diamond in her split shank oval engagement ring at all! Luckily, any gemstone looks striking in a split shank setting, including:
- Sapphire
- Emerald
- Ruby
- Aquamarine
- Tanzanite
- Moissanite
- Opal
Are Split Shank Engagement Rings Secure?
If you’re thinking about buying a split shank oval engagement ring, it’s only right that you should be thinking about its durability—but we’re here to assure you your design is secure. The dual-band construction of a split shank oval engagement ring provides a stable foundation for the center stone and is suitable for an active lifestyle.
How to Care for a Split Shank Engagement Ring
Learning proper care and maintenance is the secret to ensuring your split shank engagement ring lasts for a lifetime (and beyond). To keep it clean at home, you can use a mild dish soap, warm water, and a soft brush to rid the crevices of any dirt or debris.
Avoid wearing it during water-based activities such as showering, exercising, or swimming, and always remove it before applying perfumes and lotions. If you follow those rules and bring it into your local jeweler for regular inspections and professional cleanings, your treasured design will continue to sparkle and shine!
Finding the perfect engagement ring for the person you love is no easy task. But with a wide selection of split shank engagement rings to choose from, narrowing down your options is simple! Branch out and discover her dream design today.
