When shopping for a diamond engagement ring, you may be faced with a variety of choices in terms of diamond shape, color and style. However, if you want extra sparkle and visual impact, a diamond engagement ring with halo setting would be the perfect match for you. There is no denying that although the halo ring came late to the scene, it has been a huge hit since its introduction due to its classic and stylish design, especially with celebrities and royalty.
If you are buying a diamond engagement ring for the first time, do you know what a halo ring is and what are you looking for in a halo engagement ring? No need to panic, the article will take you through a comprehensive guide to halo engagement rings.
What is A Halo Ring?
A halo ring refers to a diamond setting that uses tiny accent stones surrounding the main stone, and is generally popular as a single halo ring and a double halo ring. All types of diamond shapes can be halo set and the accent stones can be the same shape as the main stone or a different shape, for example a cushion halo engagement ring can be surrounded by small round brilliant diamonds.
The halo of tiny diamonds shimmer and shine, adding extra pomp and sparkle to the main stone with a highly Art Deco aesthetic. In addition, against the halo, a ¼ carat, 3 carat or 5 carat main diamond is created with the illusion of being half a carat larger than it actually is.
Halo Ring Meaning
A fixed mindset assumes that the more diamonds there are, the more gorgeous the engagement ring will be. This is why, inspired by the glamorous trends of the times, halo rings were designed to add a charming or luxurious touch to jewelry and to define the mood and character of the ring with the prominent diamond. However, the original halo ring design was used to reflect the beauty of a flower.
Halo Ring History
The history of halo engagement rings dates back as far as the Victorian era (1837-1901), when colored diamonds were often used as the center stone surrounded by slightly smaller diamonds, colored stones and even pearls to mimic nature’s flowers. Victorian halo engagement rings were the most feminine and romantic of all.
The diamond halo engagement ring really became known to the public in the 1920s, an Art Deco era known for its emphasis on symmetry and geometric patterns. Since halo diamond rings at this time were more symmetrical and cutting techniques were more advanced, they fit well with the Art Deco aesthetic and became hugely popular. It was during this era that the round halo diamond ring was born and became a classic halo ring style along with the cushion halo engagement ring.
Halo Ring Styles
Halo rings can be classified into various styles depending on the main diamond cut, such as round halo engagement rings, cushion halo engagement rings, princess cut halo engagement rings, etc. Each shape has a unique appeal and its own characteristics.
● Round halo engagement ring – This is by far one of the most popular halo diamond rings, featuring a round main diamond surrounded by small brilliant round diamonds. Because of its ultimate symmetry and beauty making it truly timeless.
● Princess cut halo ring – The princess cut halo ring is vintage with a rectangular or square main diamond with distinct cut edges. Those small round diamonds blend classic brilliance with modern angles, making the princess cut halo ring second only to the round halo engagement ring in popularity.
● Cushion cut halo engagement ring – The cushion cut halo ring is the perfect blend of round and princess cut diamonds, featuring the soft look of a round halo ring and the romantic look of a princess cut ring. It appeals to many who love vintage jewelry.
● Emerald diamond halo ring – The emerald halo ring has a predominantly square main stone profile with a unique stepped cut. Its length makes for a flattering finger with an engagement ring.
● Oval halo ring – The oval halo ring, as the name implies, is an oval main stone with a sparkle similar to that of the popular round diamond. It is a representation of soft and vintage appeal.
● Pear halo ring – The pear halo ring has a slender teardrop shape and is a combination of marquise and oval cut. It is an unusual and extraordinary shape that combines elegant curves and striking angles.
● Heart halo ring – This is the most romantic of all diamond cuts, creating the softly rounded curves of a heart-shaped diamond with complete precision.