All About the Glamorous Halo Setting

Some rings whisper elegance. The halo setting dazzles it.

Known for its captivating sparkle and vintage-meets-modern appeal, the halo engagement ring remains one of the most iconic and enduring settings in the world of fine jewellery. But what makes it so beloved — and is it right for your love story?

Let’s walk you through everything you need to know.

What Is a Halo Engagement Ring?

A halo ring features a centre gemstone — typically a diamond or moissanite — encircled by a halo of smaller pavé or micro-pavé stones. This surrounding "halo" amplifies the brilliance of the centre stone and creates an illusion of greater size.

At Diamond Lab, our halo engagement rings are designed to maximise sparkle while maintaining a refined, balanced aesthetic. From timeless round-cut halos to bold cushion-shaped frames, every design is carefully crafted to elevate the centre stone's light performance.

The History of Halo Settings

The halo setting traces its roots to the Georgian era (1714–1837) and gained popularity in the Art Deco period of the 1920s. During this time, designers embraced symmetry, bold geometry, and intricate detail — all of which are central to halo designs.

Today, the halo continues to evolve, with styles ranging from delicate, vintage-inspired designs to sleek, modern takes with hidden halos and double frames.

Why Choose a Halo Setting?

1. Enhanced Sparkle

The surrounding stones catch light from every angle, increasing the overall brilliance of your ring.

2. Illusion of Size

The halo makes your centre stone appear larger — often up to half a carat more in visual impact.

3. Added Detail and Texture

Halos offer a more ornate, dimensional look compared to solitaire settings.

4. Versatility

Halo designs work beautifully with almost every cut: round, oval, cushion, pear, marquise, and more.

5. Romantic and Timeless

There's a timeless beauty to halo rings, whether vintage-inspired or ultra-modern.

Types of Halo Settings

Classic Halo

A single circle of pavé stones around the centre stone. Balanced, brilliant, and elegant.

Double Halo

Two halos stacked concentrically for extra drama and size illusion.

Hidden Halo

A subtle row of diamonds tucked beneath the crown of the centre stone. A detail often visible only from the side.

Floral Halo

Stones are arranged to mimic petals around the centre diamond, giving a romantic, whimsical look.

Geometric or Custom Halos

Customised frames in hexagon, cushion, or pear shapes to create a bold architectural effect.

Which Diamond Cuts Work Best in a Halo Setting?

• Round — The most classic choice for a traditional halo look

• Oval — Elegant and elongating, often paired with hidden or floral halos

• Cushion — A soft vintage look with incredible brilliance

• Pear — Beautifully balanced in halo frames, either upright or east-west

• Emerald — The step-cut clarity contrasts beautifully with the sparkle of pavé stones

• Radiant — Combines brilliance and shape for a powerful presence

Explore our Hidden Halo Engagement Ring Collection to see all possibilities.

Metal Matters: Setting Your Halo

Your metal choice influences both the overall tone and visual impact of your halo ring.

• White Gold — Enhances sparkle by blending into the diamonds

• Yellow Gold — Offers bold contrast and a vintage warmth

• Rose Gold — Romantic and contemporary, ideal for floral halos

• Platinum — The most durable and luxurious choice, with a bright white sheen

Each metal can subtly change the character of your ring. At Diamond Lab, we offer every design in 14K or 18K gold or platinum.

Customising Your Halo Ring

Whether you want a hidden halo paired with an emerald-cut stone or a two-tone design with a double halo, our team can bring your vision to life.

Visit our Custom Jewellery Design page to begin.

You can choose:

• Stone type (lab diamond or moissanite)

• Cut and carat size

• Halo shape and detail

• Band width and profile

• Metal type

• Pavé or plain shank

You’ll receive a CAD rendering before production, and our expert team in Australia will craft your ring to perfection.

Pros and Cons of Halo Engagement Rings

Pros:

• More visual impact without higher carat cost

• Increased brilliance

• Vintage or modern flexibility

• Protective cushion around the centre stone

Cons:

• Requires more cleaning (due to extra stones)

• Can be harder to match with wedding bands

• May not suit ultra-minimalist tastes

Still unsure? Our Virtual Consultations offer personal guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is a halo ring more expensive than a solitaire?
A halo may add to the cost due to additional diamonds, but it often allows you to choose a smaller centre stone while still achieving a large visual effect.

Q: Can I have a halo with moissanite instead of a diamond?
Absolutely. Moissanite halo rings are incredibly popular, affordable, and just as brilliant.

Q: Is it possible to add a halo to an existing ring?
Yes. We offer redesign services where we can add a halo to a classic solitaire. Enquire via our custom page.

Q: Will a halo ring look good with all finger types?
Yes, particularly oval and pear shapes. Halos tend to flatter every hand by adding balance and symmetry.

Q: Are halos still in style?
Very much so. Hidden halos and custom shapes have modernised the classic look for today’s couples.

Final Thoughts: Should You Choose a Halo Ring?

A halo engagement ring is for those who love sparkle, presence, and symbolism. Whether you’re drawn to vintage glamour or contemporary elegance, the halo offers versatility and visual magic.

At Diamond Lab, we’ll help you customise every element to create a piece that feels uniquely yours.

Ready to explore? Browse our Collection or book your consultation today.