Shank Replacement

When a ring has been worn extensively, the lower portion of the ring, the shank, wears away and can become overly thin or narrow. Narrowing of a ring frequently occurs with wedding bands that have been worn next to an engagement ring, and over time the rubbing of the two rings against each other has worn metal away from each. The result is a ring that will bend, crack or break easily.

Shank Replacement Repair

The restoration for a overly worn shank is to remove the thin metal, and fit the ring with a new section of metal. Once completed the ring can continue to be worn with confidence for many more years.

Proper Shank Replacement and Reconstruction Procedure

1. A thorough inspection of the ring is made and all issues and potential problems are identified.
2. The ring is cleaned.
3. Ring is rounded on a mandrel, shank cut through and rounded once more to the required finished radius.
4. The worn portion of the shank is cut away, leaving equal lengths on each side.
5. Appropriate length of flat stock of the correct alloy metal is calculated and cut. The flat stock must be slightly wider and thicker than the attachment point.
6. The stock is formed around a mandrel to the appropriate radius.
7. The ring and new shank are placed together and the size is checked for proper fit.
8. The joins are welded or soldered.
9. The stock is then shaped, blended and tapered to ensure a smooth transition from the old portion to the old.
10. Any missing detail is restored to match the original ring.
11. The ring is polished (or given a specialty finish), followed by a final clean.

This repair requires a high level of skill to complete with no trace of repair.

This repair is not inexpensive, however it allows the ring to be enjoyed for many more years. The expense is often worth it. After all the rings that get to this level of wear have been loved and worn and enjoyed until they have started to fall apart!

A Note about Big Knuckles!

If your ring is both worn out AND not fitting well because your knuckles are much larger than your finger size, consider a hinged shank. While these do cost more than a standard shank, they will allow you to have your ring fitted perfectly to your finger.