In context to jewelry, the term head refers to the prong system or carriage that supports a stone. A head is usually a separate component in jewelry that is welded or soldered to a piece of jewelry to support a gemstone. An example of a head is the 4 or 6 prong carriage that a diamond sits in a traditional engagement ring. The ring shank is the body of the ring and the “Head” is welded or soldered into it prior to setting the diamond.