Split shanks are quite literally named for the technique of splitting the shanks into two, (sometimes three) parts, creating what looks like two bands, but are actually joined closer to the bottom. Although often adorned with pave’ set diamonds, it creates an interesting enough design that can also stand on its own.
The Classico collection from Verragio aims to offer timeless, classic designs with a bit of a modern twist, like the 0363 which features a small split in the shank on either side of the center diamond, and is the perfect complement to the Round cut center diamond which is surrounded by a slightly angular halo made up of Round cut diamonds as well. Adorned only with the trademark Verragio crest under the band, the purpose of the shank is to add an interesting detail to the band without distracting from the intricate design on the setting.
Jennifer Hudson’s engagement ring also features a Round cut center, but she took things one step further with a little extra bling. Her stunning 5 carat diamond is surrounded with a delicate halo of smaller Round cut diamonds that also continue to the split shank.
If Hudson’s style matched more closely with your own, the Verragio 7010R also features a halo of diamonds that surround a Round cut diamond center that seems to almost float above the pave’ set, split shank. Unlike Hudson’s, this ring adds the extra scrolling detail under the band for which the Insignia collection is known for, and makes the design just a little more conversation inducing.
Split shanks may have been around for a while, but they have become increasingly popular with the Hollywood set lately, as well as modern women looking for something a little different than what their parents had.
Movie star Gwyneth Paltrow can be seen everywhere these days from television guest spots to the Country Music Award’s performance, but one place you won’t see her is hand in hand on the red carpet with her husband, Coldplay’s lead singer Chris Martin. The two are notoriously protective of their privacy, so little is known about her engagement story, but she can often be seen wearing the square cut diamond center with micro pave’ halo engagement ring. But what makes this truly interesting is the shank that splits into two thin bands, also featuring micro pave’, creating a unique and delicate look that complements Paltrow’s style perfectly.
Verragio’s latest line, the Venetian collection offers a variety of styles, and many with split shanks, that mix modern designs with delicate antique detail to create rings that are truly one of a kind. The Venetian 5007P-4 features an eye-catching look created by the Princess shaped diamond center, surrounding halo made from pave’s set diamonds that continue down the split shank. The delicate twists and turns of the antique lace inspired design under the band that epitomizes the entire Venetian collection, but it also elevates the design to ring unlike any you have seen before.