Shank
The band of a ring, everything except the setting and stones. Where resizing happens.
The shank carries the whole ring and takes almost all the wear, thinning over years at the bottom where it rests against the palm.
A worn shank can be rebuilt by soldering in new metal, which is routine work.
Split, twisted and tapered shanks are design variations; a comfort fit shank is rounded on the inside so it slides more easily.
When you are buying
On a ring meant to last, check the shank is not obviously thin at the base. It is the part most likely to need work first, and thicker is better.
Finger Ring
A ring set with a pearl, usually a single dome-backed or button pearl in a protective setting.
Channel Setting
Stones held in a groove between two walls of metal, with no prongs between them.
Solder
The alloy used to join two pieces of metal with heat. Every join in a piece of jewellery is a solder seam.
Cocktail Ring
An oversized ring built around one dominant stone or cluster, worn as a single statement.