Jewellery Guides

Should I Choose a Diamond Halo Engagement Ring?

Written by Jack Cherry
December 9th, 2019 • 4 min read

A diamond halo ring has centuries of history and allure. Choosing the perfect engagement ring is a momentous decision, symbolising the long-lasting commitment and love shared between two individuals. Amidst the myriad of options available, the diamond halo engagement ring stands as a stunning and popular choice.

From increasing the size of your ring, to adding vintage-inspire design details or inserting colourful gemstones: here’s our case for why diamond halo rings have a certain something about them - and why an engagement ring halo setting might be the right choice for you.

In this article:

  • What is a diamond halo engagement ring?

  • History of the diamond halo ring

  • Types of halo ring

  • Reasons to choose a halo diamond

  • Pros and cons of a halo ring

  • An alternative option: Solitaire ring

  • Summary: Making the decision

What is a diamond halo ring?

A halo is the addition of gemstones (typically diamonds) around the main, centre stone of an engagement ring. A simple, classic diamond halo engagement ring will feature round melee diamonds, set in a pavé or scallop style - a refined, and timeless style. Alternatively, halos can be designed in a much more intricate and elaborate fashion, from metal work crafted as floral motifs to bold, calibre cut Art Deco designs.

A halo ring features a series of tiny diamonds around the centre stone

History of the halo ring

The diamond halo ring's roots extend to historical jewellery design, notably seen in Georgian and Victorian eras. These periods showcased ornate styles, often surrounding centre gemstones with smaller stones for enhanced brilliance.

However, the modern resurgence emerged in the 1920s' Art Deco era, celebrating bold geometric designs and intricate craftsmanship. This period popularised the halo ring settings for its glamour and sophistication, leading to its evolution and continued popularity throughout the 20th century. It gained widespread popularity for its ability to make the centre stone appear larger and more radiant, while also offering a touch of vintage-inspired elegance.

Today, contemporary jewellers have embraced the halo setting, offering a myriad of variations in shapes, sizes, and designs. Whether featuring a round, cushion, pear, or princess-cut centre stone, the halo setting continues to captivate couples seeking a perfect blend of sophistication, sparkle, and timeless beauty in their engagement rings.

Reasons to choose a halo diamond ring

Discover the allure of halo diamonds. This elegant setting, encircling a central diamond with smaller stones, offers compelling reasons why it's a top choice for those seeking timeless beauty and sophistication in their jewellery

Protect The Delicate Points Of Your Diamond

A diamond halo will protect the tip of a pear diamond, enhancing its durability

If you’re taken with such diamond shapes as pears and marquise, then consider framing your diamond with a halo setting. Diamonds are the hardest natural material to exist, but chipping can occur at weaker points, like the sharp apex of pears and marquise diamonds.

We’ll always ensure a setting is secure enough to protect whichever diamond you choose, but choosing a diamond halo to essentially ‘protect’ your diamond may ensure your peace of mind.

Pear shaped halo diamond engagement rings are undoubtedly a firm favourite of Queensmith clients, and with good reason. The ethereal diamond shape is romantic, feminine, and lends itself beautifully to the delicate-looking addition of a diamond halo.

Halos can make your ring look bigger

The cost of a diamond increases exponentially with size. Once you’ve defined your budget, you’ll need to decide whether to put more emphasis on a single diamond or maximise the size of your ring (without spending more on the diamond) by exploring diamond halo engagement ring settings. The cost of many little diamonds plus the centre diamond will be significantly less than one diamond of the same total carat weight.

If size is the goal, consider a double halo engagement ring - two rows of melee diamonds will be sure to make for an attention-grabbing ring.

Enhances the brilliance of the engagement ring

One of the main appeals of a diamond halo ring is its ability to magnify the appearance of the centre diamond. The surrounding smaller diamonds, or other gemstones, create a halo effect, making the central diamond look larger, with an iridescent sparkle.

A series of small diamonds around the centre diamond will boost the size of the ring

The more diamonds, the more sparkle. There’s a very particular science as to why diamonds sparkle, but essentially a diamond’s facets encourage reflection, refraction and dispersion of light. One brilliant diamond on its own is wondrously sparkly - but add, say, 20 small diamonds to the outer edges and the sparkle will be next level as each stone will work together to boost light dispersion.

Customisable and personal

A sapphire and diamond halo ring boasts colour and sparkle

Create a diamond engagement ring with a sapphire halo, or vice versa, for a slightly different look. Sapphires and diamonds are a classic combination, but a sapphire halo is a less commonly chosen design - so if it’s uniqueness you’re after, consider this. For a staple, regal design akin to Kate Middleton’s engagement ring, set a diamond halo around a sapphire centre stone.

If you’re considering a gemstone halo, think about the colour - blue isn’t your only option. Sapphires are a good option due to their hardness, lustre, and the ability to be sourced in pretty much any colour of the rainbow. Think hot pinks, subtle peach tones, teal greens - you name it!

Pros and cons of choosing a halo ring

We’ve covered the benefits of having a halo engagement ring, let's explore the specific pros and cons of offsetting a halo ring:

Pros of a halo ring Cons of a halo ring
Enhances the appearance of the centre stone, making it look larger and more brilliant Can be most costly compared to a solitaire setting due to additional stones.
Adds extra sparkle and overall appeal to the ring design Requires more maintenance to keep the smaller stones in place and maintain brilliance
Offers a unique and stylish design, blending vintage charm with modern elegance. Personal preferences may come into play, some may prefer simpler ring settings.
Provides some protection to the centre stone against potential damage or impact. The design may overpower the smaller centre stones, making them appear smaller.

However, when comparing this with a solitaire (non-halo) ring, this style of engagement ring

Our comparison table highlights the strengths of both halo and solitaire (non-halo) engagement rings. The choice between the two depends on individual preferences, budget considerations, and the significance one places on the overall design against showcasing the beauty of the centre stone.

Classic diamond halo engagement rings

Diamond shapes like round, oval and cushion make beautifully classic halo rings

For a classic look, try choosing a rounded centre stone with a simple scallop or pavé setting. Cushion cut halo diamond engagement rings are incredibly popular, but try using a round brilliant diamond with a slightly squared halo, for unequivocal sparkle. Oval halo engagement rings are the perfect option for those setting a flattering and elegant shape.

An alternative option: solitaire rings

A solitaire ring (non-halo ring) boasts timeless elegance and simplicity, showcasing the singular appeal of the centre stone. Its classic design focuses all attention on the main gem, allowing its natural brilliance and shape to be showcased.

Beyond its aesthetic appeal, solitaire rings often come at a more accessible price point, making them an excellent choice for those with budget considerations.

Earlier, we covered the benefits and drawbacks of a diamond halo ring, but it’s also worth weighing up the appeal of a solitaire ring and a halo cut, as it’ll vary in style, price and maintenance. We’ve made a short table below:

Benefits of choosing a halo or solitaire ring

Pros of a halo ring Pros of a solitaire (non-halo) ring
Enhances the appearance of the centre stone, making the halo diamond look larger and more brilliant. Timeless and classic design that emphasizes the beauty of the centre stone.
Adds extra sparkle and overall appeal to the ring design. Generally more budget-friendly compared to halo settings.
Offers a unique and stylish design, blending vintage charms with modern elegance. Minimalistic and versatile, suitable for various lifestyles and preferences.
Provides some protection to the centre stone against potential damage or impact. Easier to maintain as it comes with fewer intricate details, less prone to accumulating dirt.
Versatile in accommodating various shapes and styles, appealing to different tastes.

However, solitaire is not the only ring choice you can opt for. There are:

  • Trilogy engagement rings - which feature three diamonds, symbolising the past, present and future with your significant other.

Summary: Making the decision

Ultimately, the decision to choose a diamond halo engagement ring should align with your personal preferences, lifestyle, and budget. Consider trying on different ring styles to see what feels comfortable and reflects your or your partner's personality and taste.

If the allure of a halo ring resonates with you, explore the various options regarding the shape of the centre stone, the size of the halo, and the choice of metals to find the perfect ring that symbolises your love and commitment.

Whether it's a classic solitaire or a striking halo setting, what matters most is the significance of the ring and the promise it represents for a beautiful future together.

Create a diamond halo engagement ring with Queensmith

Ready to start your diamond search and begin the engagement ring hunt? If you’d like a little more information, know exactly what you want, or would like to hear from the experts, we’re here to help - just drop us a message.

At Queensmith, we create our rings from scratch, allowing you the opportunity to create the perfect setting for the diamond you choose. It’ll be tailor made to the specificities of your diamond, and with your personal design details in mind. Whether you want to create something totally original, or recreate one of our classic designs, we’ll be able to help you iron out the details, find the best diamond, and craft your unique engagement ring in 2 to 4 weeks.

Diamond halo ring FAQs

What is a halo ring?

A halo engagement ring features a centre gemstone surrounded by smaller Pavé diamonds or smaller gemstones. This design creates a halo effect around the central diamond, spotlighting its brilliance and making it appear larger and more brilliant.

Why are halo rings so popular?

Halo rings have gained popularity due to their ability to enhance centre diamond. The additional gemstones surrounding the main diamond can also add sparkle and brilliance, making the ring more eye-catching.

Are halo rings more expensive?

Generally, halo rings may be more expensive than traditional solitaire engagement rings due to the additional smaller stones used in the design. However, the overall cost can vary based on factors like the quality and size of the centre stone, the metal used, and the craftsmanship of the ring.

What is the best metal for a halo ring?

The choice of metal for a halo ring depends on personal taste and lifestyle. Popular options include platinum, white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. Platinum is durable and hypoallergenic, while gold (white, yellow, or rose) offers different aesthetics and can complement various skin tones. We discuss more about skin tone and jewellery colour in our blog.

How do I clean my diamond halo ring?

Over the course of regular wear, the sparkle of your engagement ring's stone can diminish due to the accumulation of oil, debris, and makeup residues. However, restoring its radiance is a simple process with proper tools and a few easy, such as:

  • Inspecting your ring’s condition

  • Using basic household items like warm water and washing-up liquid, and delicately brushing away dirt with a soft toothbrush

Learn more about how to clean your engagement ring by visiting our blog.

What are the positives of a non-halo ring?

Non-halo rings, or solitaire rings, offer simplicity and are timeless. They emphasise the beauty of the centre stone without further embellishments, making them the ideal choice for those who prefer a more understated and traditional look. Also, they may be easier to maintain and suit various lifestyles overall.

Customer Support

Do you have additional questions? No problem, let us help you through the process

VIRTUAL & IN-STORE CONSULTATIONS

Co-create your dream, crafted in-house & just for you.

A ring consultation at Queensmith with a professional design expert and gemmologist, working with a happy couple to make their engagement ring

Need help choosing the perfect ring?

Get in touch with our experts - we’re on hand to help.

Sign up for our newsletter

Keep up to date with our latest offers, competitions and news, and be a part of the Queensmith community!

Subscription successful. Thank you.

All Next