Halo vs. Hidden Halo Engagement Rings: What’s The Difference?

A halo ring setting is bold, glamorous, and impossible to ignore. This design features a center stone surrounded by a “halo” of smaller diamonds, creating an illusion of a larger center stone.

Pros of a Halo Setting:

• Enhanced Sparkle: The halo adds extra brilliance, making your ring shine from every angle.
• Illusion of Size: The surrounding diamonds make the center stone appear larger, offering more sparkle for your budget.
• Versatile Design: Works well with various diamond shapes, including round, oval, and pear.

Cons of a Halo Setting:

• Higher Maintenance: More stones mean more cleaning and maintenance to keep it looking pristine.
• May Overpower Petite Hands: The bold design can look bulky on smaller fingers.

If the Halo setting is bold and glamorous, the Hidden Halo is subtle yet stunning. This design hides the halo of smaller diamonds beneath the center stone, providing an understated sparkle that’s visible when looked at closely. It’s an extremely personal feature and one that has become popular in recent years.

Pros of a Hidden Halo:

• Subtle Brilliance: Offers a touch of sparkle without overwhelming the center stone.
• Comfortable Fit: The smoother profile makes it more comfortable for everyday wear.
• Modern Appeal: Ideal for those who prefer a minimalist, contemporary look.

Cons of a Hidden Halo:

• Less Impact: The hidden diamonds offer less visible sparkle compared to a traditional Halo.
• Limited Customization: Fewer options for stone shapes and styles.

Visual Differences

The most noticeable difference between halo and hidden halo engagement rings is the visibility of the surrounding diamonds. In a halo ring, the diamonds encircle the center stone, creating a dazzling effect. In contrast, a hidden halo is more discreet, with the diamonds placed underneath the center stone, offering a subtler glow.

Setting Techniques

Halo engagement rings use a prong or bezel setting to secure the smaller diamonds around the center stone. On the other hand, Hidden halo engagement rings require a more complex setting technique, as the diamonds are placed beneath the main stone, often supported by a gallery or underlay.

Impact on Diamond Appearance

While both styles enhance the center stone’s brilliance, Halo rings tend to make the diamond appear larger due to the surrounding diamonds. Hidden Halo rings, while still adding sparkle, do not have the same enlarging effect, focusing more on subtle elegance.

Both settings offer a variety of styles, but there are distinct differences.

Halo Ring Styles

• Classic Round Halo: Timeless and works beautifully with most diamond shapes.
• Vintage-Inspired Halo: Features intricate details, perfect for those who love old-world charm.
• Double Halo: Adds an extra layer of sparkle with two rows of smaller diamonds.

Hidden Halo Ring Styles

• Single Hidden Halo: A subtle hint of brilliance beneath the center stone.
• Hidden Halo with Split Shank: Combines a hidden halo with a split shank band for a modern twist.
• Hidden Halo with Pavé Band: Adds extra sparkle along the band and under the center stone.

Durability Considerations

If you lead an active lifestyle, you might prefer a hidden halo ring, as its design is less prone to snagging or damage. Halo engagement rings, with their exposed diamonds, may require more careful handling to avoid chips or other damage.

Maintenance Needs

Both halo and hidden halo rings require regular maintenance to keep them looking their best. However, Halo rings may need more frequent cleaning and inspections to ensure the small diamonds remain secure because of their exposed setting.

Everyday Comfort

Comfort is a key factor when choosing an engagement ring. Hidden halo engagement rings generally offer a smoother profile, making them more comfortable for everyday wear. Halo rings, depending on the setting style, may have a higher profile, which can sometimes catch on clothing or other objects.

Halo engagement rings typically range from $1,000 to $8,000 or more, depending on the center stone’s size and quality, with luxury designs exceeding this range. Hidden halo rings usually start at around $1,500 and can go up to $10,000 or more, often being slightly more expensive due to the intricate setting and craftsmanship involved.

The price difference between halo and hidden halo rings depends on the specific design and materials chosen, but they generally fall within similar price ranges.

Choosing between a Halo and Hidden Halo setting comes down to personal style. If you love a ring that’s bold and eye-catching, the Halo setting is your go-to. If you prefer something more understated, the Hidden Halo might be your perfect match.

Need more help picking your dream ring? Contact our 24/7 customer service or visit our Ring Studio and customize your ring online in real-time.