Parts of a Ring Explained: Shank, Head & More

Quick answer: A ring has a few key parts: the shank or band (the circle around your finger), the shoulders (where the band meets the top), the head (the part that holds the center stone, usually with prongs or a bezel), the gallery (the side profile under the stone), the basket (the support structure under the stone) and the bridge (the section under the head that rests above the finger). Knowing these terms makes it easier to describe the ring you want and understand repairs.

Jewelers use specific words for every part of a ring. Here is a simple guide.

Parts of a Ring

Part	What it is	Why it matters
Shank (band)	The circle of metal around the finger	Width and profile affect comfort
Shoulders	Upper sides of the band near the stone	Often decorated with pave or side stones
Head	The setting that holds the center stone	Prongs or bezel determine security
Prongs	Metal claws gripping the stone	Need yearly checks for wear
Gallery	Side view beneath the stone	Can hide a halo or decorative detail
Basket	Supporting frame under the stone	Lets light in and holds structure
Bridge	Under the head, above the finger	Affects how flush a band sits
Sizing area	Bottom of the band	Where resizing is done

Band Styles

Straight: classic and pairs with any wedding band.
Split shank: the band divides as it reaches the head.
Tapered: narrows toward the stone to make it look larger.
Cathedral: arches rise to support the head.
Bypass: ends wrap past each other.

Shown: Art Deco Milgrain Radiant Cut Hidden Halo Lab Diamond Ring

Band Profiles

Flat: modern and clean.
Court or comfort fit: rounded inside for easy wear.
Knife edge: a sharp ridge on top for a sleek look.

Decorative Details

Milgrain: tiny metal beads along edges.
Hidden halo: stones under the center stone.
Engraving: patterns or messages on the band.
Peekaboo stones: small stones set in the gallery.

Custom Rings at Ivevar

We design and handcraft every part of the ring in our Surat workshop, and custom changes are welcome. Every ring ships worldwide with free shipping and 30-day easy returns. Read how a custom engagement ring is made.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the shank of a ring?

The band that goes around the finger.

What is the head of a ring?

The setting that holds the center stone.

What is a ring gallery?

The side profile beneath the stone.

What is a split shank?

A band that divides into two as it meets the head.

Where is a ring resized?

At the bottom of the band.

The Bottom Line

Knowing the parts of a ring helps you choose, customize and care for it with confidence.

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Author Bio

Aumsri Pradhan

Founder, Ivevar Luxury

Aumsri Pradhan is the founder of Ivevar Luxury, a Surat-based fine jewelry brand that designs and handcrafts lab grown diamond and moissanite jewelry in its own workshop. She leads the brand's design and customer experience, from engagement rings and bridal sets to custom pieces made to each client's story. Through the Ivevar blog, she shares practical guidance on lab grown diamonds, moissanite, diamond grading and ring design to help buyers choose with confidence.

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