Rings are timeless pieces of jewellery that hold significant cultural, personal, and aesthetic value. From engagement rings to everyday wear, their design and craftsmanship involve numerous terms that are essential for both enthusiasts and professionals to understand. A deeper knowledge of these terms enables better communication, informed purchasing decisions, and creative design exploration.
Anniversary Ring
A ring, often featuring a series of gemstones, given to commemorate a significant milestone in a relationship.
Band
The circular, unadorned portion of a ring that encircles the finger. It is sometimes used synonymously with the term “shank.”
Bezel Setting
A setting where a gemstone is surrounded entirely or partially by a metal rim to secure it.
Carat
A unit of weight for gemstones, equal to 200 milligrams. Carat weight is an important consideration in ring design and cost.
Cluster Ring
A ring featuring a group of smaller gemstones arranged together to create the appearance of a larger stone or decorative pattern.
Comfort Fit
A style of band with rounded edges on the interior, making it more comfortable for extended wear.
Crown
The upper portion of a ring’s gemstone that lies above the girdle. It is a key feature in the gemstone’s brilliance.
Cut
Refers to the proportions, symmetry, and polish of a gemstone. A well-cut gemstone enhances a ring’s overall aesthetic and value.
Eternity Ring
A ring featuring gemstones set continuously around the band to symbolise everlasting love.
Facet
The flat, polished surfaces on a gemstone that reflect light and contribute to its brilliance.
Filigree
Delicate, ornamental metalwork made of thin threads or beads of metal, often seen in vintage ring designs.
Gallery
The underside of a ring’s setting, which supports the gemstones and allows light to pass through, enhancing brilliance.
Girdle
The narrowest part of a gemstone, separating the crown from the pavilion. It is used for securing the stone within a setting.
Halo Setting
A setting where a central gemstone is encircled by smaller stones, creating a dazzling effect and enhancing the ring’s appearance.
Head
The part of the ring that holds the central gemstone. It includes prongs, bezels, or other settings.
Inlay
A decorative technique where materials such as gemstones, enamel, or other metals are set flush into the surface of the ring.
Pavé Setting
A setting style where multiple small gemstones are set closely together, giving the appearance of a paved surface.
Plain Band
A simple, unadorned ring made entirely of metal, often used for wedding bands.
Prong Setting
A common setting where metal claws hold a gemstone in place, allowing maximum light exposure to the stone.
Ring Size
The measurement of a ring’s internal diameter or circumference. Sizing systems vary between countries (e.g., British, US, or Japanese systems).
Shank
The portion of the ring that encircles the finger. It can be plain, split, or embellished with details.
Shoulders
The sides of the shank that lead up to the head or setting of the ring. They are often decorated in more elaborate designs.
Solitaire
A ring featuring a single central gemstone, often used for engagement rings.
Split Shank
A design where the band splits into two or more strands as it approaches the head of the ring.
Three-Stone Ring
A ring featuring three gemstones, symbolising the past, present, and future.
Tungsten
A durable metal used in contemporary ring designs, known for its scratch resistance and modern aesthetic.
Wedding Band
A simple or ornate ring exchanged during marriage ceremonies, often made of precious metals like gold or platinum.
Zirconia (Cubic Zirconia)
A synthetic gemstone often used as a diamond substitute in affordable ring designs.
