Jewelry Repair
Understanding Shank Repair: How Cracks in Your Ring Are Fixed
Published: Jul 21, 2025

Have you ever glanced down at your ring and spotted a thin crack on the bottom of the band? It is a sinking feeling — a mix of worry and “how did that happen?” The bottom of the ring, also called the shank, takes on the daily wear and tear of your life. Over time, even the most treasured pieces can show signs of stress. But do not worry — Van Adams Jewelers in Snellville, GA is here to help with trusted shank repair methods that bring your ring back to life.
What Is a Shank and Why Does It Crack?
Think of the shank as the backbone of your ring. It is the part that wraps around your finger, supporting the head and the setting. Whether you own an engagement ring, wedding band, or heirloom piece, the shank carries the load.
Cracks can happen for a few reasons:

1. Assessment and Cleaning
First, the jeweler inspects the crack carefully. Is it a surface crack, or has it gone deep? Cleaning the ring allows a clear look at the damage. It is a bit like giving your ring a check-up before surgery.
2. Cutting and Sizing the Damage
Next, the jeweler will cut out the damaged section if needed. This might sound scary, but it is necessary to remove weak spots. It is like trimming a frayed rope to tie a strong knot.
3. Adding a New Piece
The jeweler then adds a new piece of metal, matching the original in type and color. This strengthens the bottom of the ring and keeps the look uniform. No mismatched patches here!
4. Soldering and Smoothing
With everything in place, the jeweler solders the new section and smooths the join. You can think of it as welding, but on a delicate, beautiful scale.
5. Polishing and Finishing
Finally, your ring is polished to a shine, leaving no trace of the repair. At Van Adams Jewelers, we take pride in sending your jewelry home looking refreshed, not just “fixed.”
Whether you are fixing a cracked band, resizing a ring, or restoring an heirloom, you can rely on us to do it with care and precision.

How Do You Know If You Need Shank Repair?
Here are a few signs your ring may need attention:
Preventing Future Cracks
While no ring is indestructible, you can help yours last longer:
Your Trusted Jewelry Repair Partner
At Van Adams Jewelers, we know your jewelry is more than just metal and stones. It is a symbol of love, history, and moments worth remembering. When cracks appear, we are here with steady hands and expert skills to bring your treasures back to life.
If you are in Snellville, GA, and need shank repair methods or any other professional jewelry repair, visit Van Adams Jewelers or stop by our store. We are always happy to help you keep your jewelry as beautiful as the day you got it.
What Is a Shank and Why Does It Crack?
Think of the shank as the backbone of your ring. It is the part that wraps around your finger, supporting the head and the setting. Whether you own an engagement ring, wedding band, or heirloom piece, the shank carries the load.
Cracks can happen for a few reasons:
- Metal fatigue: Years of bending, squeezing, or knocks take their toll.
- Thin bands: Slim designs are beautiful but may wear out faster.
- Sizing stress: Resizing too often or too much can weaken the metal.
- Everyday wear: Hard knocks on countertops, gym weights, or even gardening tools can leave their mark.

Professional Shank Repair Methods
At Van Adams Jewelers, fixing a cracked shank is not just about patching it up — it is about restoring the ring’s strength and beauty. Here is what to expect:1. Assessment and Cleaning
First, the jeweler inspects the crack carefully. Is it a surface crack, or has it gone deep? Cleaning the ring allows a clear look at the damage. It is a bit like giving your ring a check-up before surgery.
2. Cutting and Sizing the Damage
Next, the jeweler will cut out the damaged section if needed. This might sound scary, but it is necessary to remove weak spots. It is like trimming a frayed rope to tie a strong knot.
3. Adding a New Piece
The jeweler then adds a new piece of metal, matching the original in type and color. This strengthens the bottom of the ring and keeps the look uniform. No mismatched patches here!
4. Soldering and Smoothing
With everything in place, the jeweler solders the new section and smooths the join. You can think of it as welding, but on a delicate, beautiful scale.
5. Polishing and Finishing
Finally, your ring is polished to a shine, leaving no trace of the repair. At Van Adams Jewelers, we take pride in sending your jewelry home looking refreshed, not just “fixed.”
Why Trust Van Adams Jewelers in Snellville, GA?
When it comes to professional jewelry repair, trust matters. Van Adams Jewelers has been the go-to name in Snellville for over 35 years, with in-house services that keep your precious pieces safe. Our team understands the sentimental and financial value of your jewelry. We treat each piece as if it were our own.Whether you are fixing a cracked band, resizing a ring, or restoring an heirloom, you can rely on us to do it with care and precision.

How Do You Know If You Need Shank Repair?
Here are a few signs your ring may need attention:
- You feel a rough spot or sharp edge on the bottom of the band.
- You notice a visible crack or thinning metal.
- The ring feels loose or “out of shape.”
- You hear a soft “click” or feel movement when you press the band.
Preventing Future Cracks
While no ring is indestructible, you can help yours last longer:
- Take rings off when doing heavy work or sports.
- Avoid sudden size changes — go to a professional jeweler for resizing.
- Have your rings checked once a year, especially older or vintage pieces.
Your Trusted Jewelry Repair Partner
At Van Adams Jewelers, we know your jewelry is more than just metal and stones. It is a symbol of love, history, and moments worth remembering. When cracks appear, we are here with steady hands and expert skills to bring your treasures back to life.
If you are in Snellville, GA, and need shank repair methods or any other professional jewelry repair, visit Van Adams Jewelers or stop by our store. We are always happy to help you keep your jewelry as beautiful as the day you got it.