Choosing An Oval Split Shank Engagement Ring

An oval's length draws the eye along the finger, which makes the hand look longer and slimmer. It also gives the stone more presence. An oval diamond looks bigger than a round of the same carat weight, because it spreads its weight over a longer outline and usually shows more surface face-up. A split shank is a band that divides in two as it approaches the center stone, framing it with more metal and light. The split widens the frame around the center and adds dimension to the profile, so the ring is as interesting from the side as from above. In all, 12 oval split shank engagement rings are available, from $1,675. Each takes a 1, 1.5, 2 or 3 carat lab-grown center, E-F color and VS+ clarity, in yellow gold, white gold or platinum. As the wedding band that goes with an oval split shank engagement ring, a slim straight band balances the wider split at the top of the ring and keeps the focus on the oval.