A diamond never needs to be huge in size to be impressive in appearance. Frequently the design surrounding it does the most work. This is why halo engagement rings continue to be an appealing choice for couples seeking to enjoy the brilliance of an extravagant arrangement without the need for oversized main stones.
A halo setting employs a line of smaller stones around a larger centre diamond, in order to add visual weight and create a more dramatic appearance that still keeps the primary stone in focus
Variations in the style of these rings are extensive, though, with choices to make in terms of gem shape, halo proportions, the width of surrounding metal and the overall colour of the band.
Table of Contents
What Makes Halo Engagement Rings Visually Impressive
A key factor in a halo setting is proportion, with small side stones placed near the main diamond increasing the total field of sparkling surface area beyond that of the body stone alone, and making the ring look bigger from above
A proportionally attractive halo should balance out the size of the body stone, though: excessively large side diamonds can create a confusing blend between the two, and a halo that is too slender may lose its effect entirely when viewed from a distance.
The way in which the small stones are arranged around the body stone is also significant, as a closely spaced halo can create an uninterrupted expanse of brilliance, while leaving a tiny gap between the main diamond and its surrounds adds definition to the ring’s design.
Round, Oval or Cushion – How the Diamond Shape Affects the Halo
Round brilliant diamonds lend themselves most to halo settings due to their ability to reflect light back toward the onlooker, creating a striking effect when paired with the extra sparkle introduced by side stones. Those choosing this option can enjoy the generous sparkle of a halo with the reliability of a classic centre diamond shape.
Oval diamonds are similarly advantageous in a halo setting, providing extra brilliance thanks to their elongated proportions. This effect can make the ring look larger without adding significant width to the band, with an oval halo able to further emphasise this illusion.
Cushion cut diamonds have gently rounded edges and can provide a pleasing hybrid between classic shapes such as round brilliant and more angular modern cuts like princess or emerald. Pear, radiant, princess and emerald cut diamonds can also be fitted with halos, though the proportions of the body stone become more important in such cases in order to preserve its unique appearance. In the case of an emerald cut centre diamond, for instance, the halo should not overpower the distinctive faceting and straight edges of the body stone.
Lab Made Diamonds Offer Buyers Another Choice
The centre stone of a halo engagement ring does not need to be a mined diamond, as lab made diamonds are an increasingly common alternative. Created through controlled laboratory processes such as CVD or HPHT, lab grown diamonds are chemically identical to those that form underground. As with any diamond, however, buyers should verify the authenticity of such a stone and ensure the correct information is included with the purchase.
This choice can be particularly helpful with halo rings, as there are more elements to the design – the body stone, small halo diamonds and, in some designs, additional pavé diamonds along the band – meaning that centre diamond carat weight is just one consideration among several. For a brilliant cut centre diamond, for instance, the cut quality has a major impact on the way the stone interacts with light, while the colour of the smaller stones should complement the main diamond in order to avoid an unappealing contrast between the two.
Those examining lab grown diamond options in New Zealand may also want to examine the offerings of NOVITA DIAMONDS New Zealand, providing further inspiration for lab grown diamond engagement ring styles and setting choices.
A Single Halo Is Not the Only Design Choice
Traditional halo engagement rings feature a single row of diamonds around the band, but designers have introduced a number of variations on this theme.
A hidden halo makes use of small side stones beneath the centre diamond rather than around its outer edges, creating an appearance similar to a solitaire ring when viewed from directly above. From the side, however, the extra diamonds become apparent, making this a good choice for those looking for a more understated style.
Double halos employ two rows of small stones around the band, creating a much more prominent effect and allowing for significantly more coverage. This extends into geometric halos, which take inspiration from non-round cuts and give round centre diamonds a cushion or other shape.
The important consideration in either case is to choose the architecture of the ring, rather than the one word that describes it.
What Metal to Choose for a Halo Engagement Ring
Metals play a major role in the overall effect of a halo ring, with white gold providing a seamless background for colourless diamonds, yellow gold creating a warm contrast and rose gold offering a subtler change in hue. A further option is platinum, which resembles white gold in terms of appearance.
Some rings take advantage of the contrast between metals, such as a yellow gold band combined with white metal around the body stone, in order to preserve the warmth of the former while providing a neutral immediate setting for the diamonds.
Beyond colour, though, other aspects of the band are worth considering, with the width, prongs, height of setting and potential compatibility with a wedding band all deserving of close examination.
Examining the Small Diamonds, Not Just the Centre Stone
It is easy to overlook the halo when choosing an engagement ring, concentrating almost entirely on the centre diamond.
The small accent stones that form the halo are frequently referred to as melee diamonds, with individual sizes that tend to be on the small side. Together, however, they have a considerable impact on the overall appearance of the ring. Consistency is a key factor in this, with a halo that has reasonably similar stones in terms of colour and appearance creating a much more uniform appearance.
The craftsmanship involved in these stones is equally important, as their small size means that they require delicate prongs or other forms of setting to ensure that they remain in place. As an engagement ring is likely to be worn regularly, this is worth bearing in mind – and, if the ring sees frequent use, inspecting the setting on a regular basis is a good idea, particularly if it is subject to regular knocks in day-to-day life.
How High Should a Halo Ring Sit?
This is an easy detail to overlook when looking at photographs.
A high-profile halo setting lifts the body stone, creating a more prominent appearance from the side. It also leaves additional space beneath the setting, which may be a consideration when a wedding band is added. A lower setting keeps the diamond closer to the finger, making it less prominent but perhaps more comfortable in everyday wear. Both options have their advantages, but the right choice depends on the individual, their lifestyle and the way they intend to wear the ring.
When shopping online in New Zealand, side profile photographs or videos can be just as valuable as the usual shot from above.
Things to Consider When Buying a Halo Engagement Ring in NZ
Examine the centre diamond first, identifying its shape, carat weight, measurements, colour, clarity and, where applicable, cut. When buying a laboratory grown diamond, ensure the origin of the stone is clear and examine the accompanying documents.
Next, consider the ring as a whole. Does the halo follow the shape of the body stone? Are the side diamonds consistent with one another? Does the pronging look proportional?
Finally, examine the ring in the context of everyday life, rather than under the lighting of a jewellery store. Will it see regular use? Does the buyer work in a field that involves a lot of manual labour? Can the setting be kept clean, and will it fit comfortably next to a wedding band?
The most appealing halo engagement rings are those that make the best use of sparkle without ignoring more practical considerations such as proportion, a secure setting, an appropriate centre diamond and overall comfort.
