Split Shank Engagement Ring Guide: Styles, Pros and Cons

A split shank engagement ring has a band that divides into two (or more) strands as it reaches the center stone. It is a simple design detail with a big effect: the ring looks wider and more striking, and the center diamond looks a little larger. This guide explains what a split shank ring is, its pros and cons, the most popular styles and how to choose a wedding band that fits next to it.

What Is a Split Shank Engagement Ring?

Every ring has a shank, the part of the band that goes around your finger. In a split shank design, the band starts as one piece at the bottom and splits into two separate strands as it rises toward the center stone. The two strands then hold the setting between them.

Because the band opens up near the diamond, the top of the ring looks wider. That extra width makes the center stone look larger and gives the ring a bold, modern outline.

Pros and Cons of a Split Shank Ring

Pros

• The center stone looks bigger thanks to the wider frame.
• A unique outline that stands out from a classic solitaire.
• Room for extra pavé diamonds along the strands, for more sparkle.
• The open space between the strands can make the ring feel lighter.

Cons

• Pairing a wedding band can take more planning (see below).
• The gap between strands can collect dirt, so clean the ring every few weeks.
• A very wide split can feel bulky on a small hand.

Popular Split Shank Styles

Solitaire split shank. One center diamond, with plain or pavé strands. Clean, elegant and very popular for oval and round diamonds.

Halo split shank. A ring of small diamonds around the center stone, on a split band. This gives maximum sparkle. See our halo engagement rings.

Pavé split shank. Small diamonds set along one or both strands. The band sparkles from every angle. See our pavé engagement rings.

Bypass or twisted split shank. The strands cross or wrap around the center stone for a flowing, romantic look.

Shop Lab-Grown Diamond Split Shank Engagement Rings

Each ring is made to order with a lab-grown diamond center stone and an IGI report, in 10K, 14K or 18K gold or platinum.

1 ct Oval Lab Grown Diamond Solitaire Split Shank Engagement Ring1 ct Round Solitaire Split Shank Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Ring1 ct Round Halo Split Shank Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Ring2 ct Cushion Lab Grown Diamond Solitaire Split Shank Engagement Ring2 ct Emerald Lab Grown Diamond Solitaire Split Shank Engagement Ring1.5 ct Pear Lab Grown Diamond Solitaire Split Shank Engagement Ring1.5 ct Marquise Bezel Split Shank Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Ring3 ct Oval Cut Lab Grown Diamond Bridal Ring Set with Split Shank Engagement Ring

Which Diamond Shapes Look Best on a Split Shank?

• Oval and pear: the long shape fits naturally between the two strands. Browse oval engagement rings.
• Round: a classic choice that looks extra bright with pavé strands. Browse round engagement rings.
• Cushion and emerald: the wider band balances these bigger, squarer shapes.
• Marquise: a split shank adds width to this slim shape, so it looks more balanced.

How to Pair a Wedding Band With a Split Shank Ring

Because the split shank is wider at the top, a straight band may not sit flush against it. You have three good options:

1. A curved or contour band that follows the shape of the engagement ring.
2. A thin straight band worn with a small gap, which is a popular modern look.
3. A matching bridal set, where the band is designed to fit the engagement ring exactly. See our bridal sets.

Caring for a Split Shank Ring

Clean your ring every few weeks with warm water, mild soap and a soft brush. Pay attention to the space between the strands, where lotion and dirt can collect. Every Octa Pearl ring includes free resizing.