When selecting an engagement ring, there are several things to consider, such as the gemstone, the metal, and the budget. But arguably, the most important aspect is the design or style. This is because each style has a different appeal, and it can dramatically change the ring’s entire look.
The design further emulates your love, emotions, and personal preferences. This is why staying well-versed in the style trends is essential, so you can present your partner with a ring that resonates with your relationship.
Want to know more about ring settings and styles? If yes, then this guide will discuss the two most popular styles: the halo and the hidden halo. Let’s explore what they are and the distinct differences between the two.
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Contents
What is a Halo Engagement Ring?
A halo engagement ring is essentially one with a large jewel at the center of a band made of micro or round pavé diamonds, mimicking a beautiful halo. It is an utterly luxurious ring that leads the eyes toward the big diamond or gemstone in the middle.
The origin of this ring can be dated back to Europe during the Georgian era, but it gained popularity in the Victorian age. Unfortunately, the halo ring went out of style after the Great Depression and WW2, when the diamond industry experienced a decline.
The halo ring made a comeback in the 60s when the trend of Art Deco ring styles emerged. Once the halo was back in the limelight, it remained the 2nd most popular style (after the solitaire). Today, you can also find halo engagement rings featuring lab-created diamonds.
What is a Hidden Halo Engagement Ring?
Just like a halo, a hidden halo features a circle of diamonds or gems, but the difference is that it is situated at the base of the center stone. When you look at it from above, you won’t be able to see it until you view it from the side. But the good thing is that this style blends well with any diamond shape.
The hidden halo is a relatively new, innovative take on the halo concept, which came about as brides were increasingly looking for something less traditional. Currently, hidden halo lab diamond engagement rings are also becoming increasingly popular. Lab diamonds are optically, chemically, and physically the same as earth-mined diamonds, but they are more affordable since no mining is involved.
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Differences between Hidden Halo and Halo Engagement Rings
The main difference between a halo and a hidden halo engagement ring is the halo’s appearance and placement. The hidden halo ring is modest, emphasizing the diamond at the center, whereas the halo sparkles from every angle.
Of course, since there are more crevices in hidden halo engagement rings, they are harder to clean. Conversely, the traditional halo ring requires a lot of care because the small diamonds making up the band can fall out easily if not cared for correctly. The cost of each ring type is approximately the same, even though the halo ring requires more diamonds. However, if you’re buying a ring with lab diamonds, you can save on costs.
Pros and Cons of Hidden Halo and Halo Engagement Rings
Each type, be it an earth-mined or lab diamond engagement ring has its own set of advantages and advantages:
Hidden Halo Ring
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A hidden halo ring is super modern and unconventional, which is great if you’re not a fan of more traditional designs. It amplifies the stone at the center, making it seem bigger while adding more sparkles and dimension from all angles.
The main con of this style is that the center stone sits much higher. As a result, it can easily get caught in fabrics or any material it comes in contact with. This can be damaging to the ring, as well as the materials it touches. Additionally, hidden halo rings are more challenging to clean as they do not have a smooth surface.
Halo Ring
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A halo engagement ring is quite the classic, with the halo making the ring look even more glamorous. The presence of pave diamonds make the center stone appear large, giving you more value for money. Additionally, if you get a lab engagement ring in the halo style, you can benefit from an even lower cost.
Unfortunately, the downside of a halo ring is that it requires a lot of maintenance over the years. You also run the risk of losing the pave diamonds if the ring is mishandled.
How to Choose between Halo and Hidden Halo Engagement Rings
When choosing between the hidden halo and halo engagement ring, it’s a good idea to understand how each setting affects the ring’s appearance, durability, and practicality. Here are some questions to ask yourself so you can more easily make the right decision:
- Is it important for you to be able to see all the accents when looking straight down at the ring?
- Would you rather have a bigger-looking diamond that is emphasized by the presence of smaller diamonds surrounding it?
- Do you prefer a high-set ring?
- How often do you want to wear it?
Wrapping Up
Both the halo and hidden halo engagement ring styles are beautiful in their own right, with the latter being more contemporary. You can go for the traditional halo if you want a truly captivating engagement ring. However, the hidden halo will be perfect if you like understated elegance.
