Hidden Halo Vs. Halo Rings: How to Differentiate

Choosing an engagement ring requires serious consideration for the ring setting as it plays a crucial role in its overall appearance. Some of the most popular styles of rings are halo rings and hidden halo rings. This is because they do well in making the center stone shine and stand out elegantly. They also provided an extra touch of sophistication.

In this simple guide, you will discover what differentiates halo rings and hidden halo rings. We will also look at what makes each design unique and what makes many people attracted to these rings. No matter where you are right now about buying a ring or just starting to research, there will be helpful information here to guide you on your way.

What is a Halo Ring?

First of all, we start by understanding what halo rings are. A halo ring is a type of setting that has a halo of accent stones surrounding a larger center gemstone. This type of setting is used in many different types of rings, which include engagement rings, wedding rings, and other interesting jewelry pieces.

There are several reasons why halo rings are popular. They produce a brilliant sparkle that boosts the appearance of center diamonds and makes them prominent. Their rich history adds even further meaning to their style.

The halo ring style dates back to the 18th-century Georgian era. Rings were crafted with larger center stones like diamonds and smaller colored gemstones surrounding the main stone. These were typically arranged in floral patterns for a nature inspired style. Later on, designers of the Victorian era, built further on this idea by adding more intricate designs and introducing romantic elements, which made the overall style more ornate, befitting that era.

Today’s halo ring styles took off in the Art Deco period of the 1920s, which celebrated bold geometry, clean lines, and excellent symmetry. Perfect for the halo style, these elements help to create a very attractive pattern. This blend of traditional gemstones and contemporary design styles has set the halo ring as one of the revered ring styles.

Types of Halo Ring

There are many different styles in which halo rings can be found, and each offers a unique look that can complement different dressing styles.

● Classic Halo: This is the typical center stone surrounded by a row of smaller diamonds.

May include: A rose gold engagement ring with a large oval-shaped blue gemstone surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds. The ring has a band that is also set with smaller diamonds.

● Double Halo: This features two rows of diamonds surrounding one large piece of diamond, which is the center stone.

Floral Halo: This halo ring is designed with floral patterns surrounding the center stone, and a mix of gems of different shapes and sizes.

● Vintage Halo: This features complex and elaborate details as well as milgrain edges which gives an antique look.

● Custom Halo: This displays custom designs with unique patterns, colored gemstones, and other personalized elements.

What to Consider When Choosing a Halo Ring

There are a couple of things to keep in mind when choosing to buy a halo ring:

● Proportions: one of the most important requirements in choosing a halo ring is the overall proportions and balance of the design. There should not be a lack of harmony between the size and shape of the center stone as well as the halo so that elements look perfectly matched and in proportion.

● Maintenance: Halo rings, like any other ring, should be consistently cleaned and worn carefully. You should also have your ring inspected by a professional jeweler from time to time. This ensures the ring is always in tip-top condition.

What is a hidden halo ring?

A hidden halo ring or a secret halo ring displays several small stones positioned underneath the center diamond and hidden from plain view.  This setting improves the overall sparkle and design but does not take away from the ring’s appearance. You can see the hidden halo properly from specific angles, which provides a muted but elegant element of surprise.

Hidden halo rings are well known for the elegance and sparkle they exude. In the hidden halo setting, the center stone is given prominence as the focal point while enhanced further by the brilliance of the hidden halo. For those who are looking for a minimalist aesthetic with a touch of intricate elements, this is just the perfect ring style.  

The hidden halo ring is quite new but has become popular because of how seamlessly it blends subtlety with brilliance. It is a modern update of the traditional halo setting that is suited to those who want to pair the modern flair with an understated elegance.

Hidden Halo Ring Types

There are various styles of hidden halo rings and we will look at each one below.

● Single Hidden Halo: In this style, the center diamond is accentuated by one row of small stones beneath it.

● Double Hidden Halo: To make the single hidden halo look more brilliant and complex, this one adds two more rows of stones.

● Profile Halo: This provides a unique look with the stones added alongside or on the side of the center stone.

● Custom Hidden Halo: This style includes the introduction of customized elements along with colored stones and unique patterns. It has a more personalized touch.

What to Consider When Choosing a Hidden Halo Ring

It is important to keep the following things in mind when choosing a hidden halo ring.

● Visibility Angle: Does the general effect of the hidden halo when viewed from different angles look right to you?

● Higher Setting: The center stones in traditional settings are a bit lower in positioning compared to the hidden halo setting. Since visibility is a crucial aspect of the hidden halo ring, the elevation is necessary but be sure it isn’t too high because of the smaller stones.

● Wedding Band Options: Wedding bands don’t always pair well with all designs and hidden halo rings typically don’t mesh well with wedding bands. If a perfect flush fit is what you want, then go for a curved or open band.

Which Should You Choose?

The choice between halo and hidden halo rings is down to your personal preferences. A traditional halo ring could be the right one for you if an eye-catching and elegant ring is your desire. The diamond center stone appearance shines through on these types of rings. However, a hidden halo ring is just the right choice for a subtle, elegant, and uniquely designed ring. The beauty it radiates from all angles comes from its subtle but sophisticated sparkle. When deciding on what to get, always keep your style and overall ring design in mind.

Closing Thoughts

For beauty and a personal touch to rings, both the halo setting and hidden halo setting can bring the sparkle and elegance you crave. But, while brilliance and shine is what halo designs are all about, being able to captivate mystery with a secret layer of light is a specialty of the hidden halos. In the end, personal style and taste will determine what your choice will be. Never forget - your heart knows the perfect ring.