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Anatomy of an Engagement Ring


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What names are applied to the parts of a ring?


The following diagram provides useful guidance on the basic anatomy of an engagement ring. We based our diagram and description on a classic solitaire engagement ring—the Liberty engagement ring design. This design demonstrates all of the key features and parts of a ring design. Jewellers create rings either as one complete item or in several parts. For example, when different precious metals differ across the ring. 

A mounted assembles the various ring parts to create the complete ring, ready to be set with the diamond or gemstone. 

The diamond often stands apart as the most expensive part of an engagement ring. In particular, when the diamond exceeds a size above 0.30cts in weight. The diamond or gemstone is not part of the ring structure but makes up the completed ring. Otherwise, we describe the ring as a 'ring mount' rather than a completed ring. We create castings and finished ring mounts without diamonds for many clients—for example, other jewellers or members of the public. 

The basic anatomy of an engagement ring.


Most rings have several parts in common. We assign common names to specific parts of a ring design. Jewellers use these terms to communicate clearly with casters, mounters, setters and finishers. At the same time, we find it useful for clients to understand parts of a ring. In particular, this knowledge is useful when discussing new ring designs. 


The diamond or gemstone.


The diamond or gemstone provides the focus for the ring design. Most ring designs draw attention to the main gemstone while giving security to the ring. The number of diamonds can vary enormously, from a single diamond to several-dozen diamonds set within the same design. We refer to single diamond rings as solitaire ring designs. Numerous diamonds form cluster rings. 


The stone setting and head of a ring.


The head forms the uppermost section of a ring and features both the setting and gemstone(s). A ring setting holds the diamond or gemstone in place. Different setting styles exist, ranging from claw or prong settings to rub-over styles surrounding the entire gemstone. Buyers should consider the benefits of certain types of settings and personal preferences based on appearance. For example, a setting with six claws offers more security for a diamond than a three or four claw setting. 

Important considerations of a ring's setting


An engagement ring forms only part of the final ring set for many buyers. With this in mind, it is amazing how few buyers consider a suitable wedding ring. As a result, we provide for clients in two different ways. Firstly, we create many engagement rings with wedding ring friendly settings. A wedding ring friendly setting raises the entire head to allow a wedding ring to sit neatly alongside. At the same time, we provide a shaped wedding ring service for those clients who do not own wedding ring friendly settings. 


Ring shoulders. 


The shoulders of the ring connect the band or shank of a ring to the setting. We describe some rings as one-part rings. To explain, we cast one-part rings in one single piece. In contrast, two or three-part rings feature separate sections cast independently and assembled later. All rings have shoulders, always positioned along the upper section of the band or shank of the ring and adjoin the section of the ring under the finger. 

Rings vary enormously in their shoulder design. Some rings feature plain shoulders with a variation in style. For example, some plain shoulders narrow at the setting. Other shoulders flare outwards at the setting. Other shoulder styles divide into two or intertwine or even twist. 

Finally, some rings feature diamond shoulders, gemstone or mixed diamond and gemstone shoulders or merge many of the above variations in one design. 


The following infographic shows the main parts of an engagement ring including the diamond.  

The band or shank of the ring. 


We describe the band of a ring as the shank. The ring shank, often called the band, encircles the finger. Like the setting and shoulders of a ring, the shank defines the ring's appearance and the comfort and feel of a ring on the finger. Both the width, depth and profile of a shank can vary. The most common shank width measures 2.5mm across the band. At the same time, a court profile makes the most comfortable fit, often referred to as a comfort fit. 


Watch the video clip below, which shows the Emily engagement ring design. The ring features a six claw setting, with diamond set shoulders and a 2.5mm wide shank. In this particular example, a prominent diamond 0.80cts in weight defines the overall shape and style of the ring. At the same time, the six surrounding claws help define the stone's roundness. At the same time, they protect the diamond edges. 

Additional parts of an engagement ring.


Some engagement ring styles feature additional parts. As a result, they fall into distinctive categories listed on our website—for example, the engagement ring halo. A diamond halo surrounds the main diamond or gemstone and forms part of the head or setting. An engagement ring halo typically features small round brilliant cut diamonds, encircling a larger stone. The halo adds size and decorative sparkle to a ring design.