Halo Rings: A Modern Classic in Engagement Jewelry

If you ask me, halo rings have redefined what it means to make a statement with your jewelry. As a diamond expert and jeweler with years of hands-on experience, I've watched countless couples fall in love with this dazzling design. Today, I’m excited to share my expertise on halo rings, their origins, styles, and why they remain one of the most sought-after choices for engagement rings.

What Are Halo Rings?

A halo ring features a central gemstone (often a diamond) encircled by a border—or "halo"—of smaller accent stones. This clever arrangement enhances the appearance of the center stone, making it look larger and more brilliant.

Key Features of Halo Rings

• Center stone: Often a round brilliant diamond but can be any shape or gemstone
• Halo setting: One or more rows of small accent diamonds or gemstones surround the center stone
• Band style: Can range from simple and classic to ornate vintage designs

"A halo ring is like a spotlight for your center stone—the brilliance is undeniable."

—Mike Nekta

The History Behind Halo Rings

The concept isn’t new. The first appearances of halo settings date back to the Georgian era (early 1700s), gaining popularity during the Victorian period when colored gemstones were often used as centerpieces. However, it was during the Art Deco movement of the 1920s that halo rings truly flourished, thanks to their geometric patterns and bold symmetry.

Today’s halo rings draw inspiration from these eras while embracing modern craftsmanship and personalization.

Why Choose Halo Rings?

From my experience working with clients in New York City and beyond, I’ve seen several reasons why couples gravitate toward halo rings:

1. Enhanced Sparkle

The surrounding diamonds act like tiny mirrors, reflecting light into the center stone and amplifying its brilliance.

2. Illusion of Size

A well-crafted halo can make a modest-size diamond appear up to half a carat larger—ideal if you want maximum presence without stretching your budget.

3. Versatility

Halo settings complement every diamond shape—from round to oval, cushion to pear-shaped—and work beautifully with colored gemstones such as sapphires or morganites.

4. Customization Options

With endless combinations available for both halos and bands, customization becomes an exciting part of the design process.

Popular Styles of Halo Rings

Over time, halo rings have evolved into several distinct styles. Here are some favorites I help clients select every week:

Classic Round Halo

• Timeless appeal
• Pairs perfectly with a round brilliant center diamond
• Single row of micro-pavé set diamonds creates seamless sparkle

Double Halo

• Two concentric circles of diamonds for extra dazzle
• Magnifies both size and brilliance
• Works especially well with fancy-shaped centers (e.g., cushion or emerald cut)

Vintage-Inspired Halos

• Milgrain detailing and filigree evoke antique charm
• Perfect for those who love romantic heirloom looks

Colored Gemstone Halos

• Sapphires or rubies encircle a diamond (or vice versa)
• Adds contrast and personal flair to your ring

Hidden Halo

• Small diamonds placed just beneath the crown—visible only from certain angles
• Subtle sparkle that surprises and delights upon closer inspection

How to Choose Your Perfect Halo Ring

Selecting an engagement ring should be an enjoyable journey. Here’s how I guide my clients through finding their ideal halo ring:

Determine Your Center Stone Shape

Your choice of center stone shape truly sets the tone for your entire halo ring.

• Classic Round: The most popular and timeless option, round stones offer maximum brilliance and suit virtually every style.
• Elegant Oval: Ovals create a refined, elongated look, often making fingers appear slenderer while maintaining exceptional sparkle.
• Modern Princess Cut: With its clean lines and square silhouette, the princess cut delivers a contemporary feel and great light performance.
• Unique Shapes: For those craving individuality, consider pear (teardrop), marquise (boat-shaped), or even heart-shaped stones—each one brings its own charm and character to your ring.

I always encourage clients to view different shapes in person to see which best complements their hand and personal style.

Select Your Metal

The metal you choose not only affects the ring’s durability but transforms its entire aesthetic:

• Yellow Gold: Warm and traditional, yellow gold adds a rich glow and pairs beautifully with both diamonds and colored gemstones.
• White Gold: Sleek and versatile, white gold provides a modern look that emphasizes diamond brightness. It’s a favorite for those seeking crisp elegance.
• Platinum: Renowned for its strength and hypoallergenic properties, platinum offers an understated luxury with a naturally white luster that won’t fade over time.

Each metal brings out subtle differences in both the center stone’s color and the surrounding halo—let me show you side-by-side comparisons during your appointment.

Choose Your Halo Style

Halo designs can dramatically change how your engagement ring captures light—and attention:

• Single Row Halo: Opt for simplicity with a single circle of accent stones; it highlights your center gem without overwhelming it.
• Double Row Halo: Double the sparkle! Two rows of diamonds frame your center stone for amplified brilliance and presence.
• Hidden Halo: Prefer something more private? Tiny diamonds tucked beneath the crown provide flashes of light only visible from certain angles—an intimate detail that’s yours alone.

Let’s explore real-life samples so you can appreciate each style up close.

Consider Band Design

The band is more than just a supporting player—it can transform the overall effect:

• Plain Bands: Minimalist and classic, these bands let the halo setting take center stage.
• Pavé-set Bands: Multiple small diamonds set into the band itself add shimmer from every angle—perfect for those who love continuous sparkle.
• Split Shanks: The band splits into two as it approaches the center stone, creating visual interest and extra dimension.

We’ll explore which design best balances comfort, durability, and style for your daily wear.

Set Your Budget

One of my favorite things about halo rings is how much value they deliver:

“A well-crafted halo makes even modest center stones appear larger—maximizing wow-factor without maxing out your budget.”

Whether you’re targeting a specific carat size or working within a set price range, I’ll help you find options that give you both beauty and peace of mind.

Personalize Details

Make your ring as unique as your story with custom touches:

• Inside Engravings: Mark special dates or sweet messages inside the band for sentiment only you know.
• Custom Side Stones: Add colored gems or family birthstones along the shank for extra meaning.
• Gallery Detailing: Subtle design elements beneath the center stone offer hidden beauty visible only upon closer inspection.

Every detail is an opportunity to express yourself—let’s bring your vision to life together!

Caring for Your Halo Ring

With so many delicate stones involved, proper care is key:

• Clean regularly using warm water, mild soap, and a soft brush.
• Schedule professional cleanings at least twice a year.
• Have prongs checked annually to ensure all stones are secure.
• Remove your ring before heavy lifting or activities that might cause impact.

A little attention goes a long way in keeping your halo ring sparkling for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions About Halo Rings

Do halo settings make diamonds look bigger?

Yes! The surrounding stones create an optical illusion that increases both size and sparkle.

Are halo rings still popular in 2025?

Absolutely—they remain one of my most requested designs due to their elegance and versatility.

Can I use colored gemstones instead of diamonds?

Of course! Many clients choose sapphires, emeralds, morganites—or even combine colors—for added personality.

Is resizing possible with halo settings?

Yes, though intricate pavé bands may require special attention during resizing—always trust an experienced jeweler like myself for adjustments.

Why Work With Mike Nekta?

My commitment is not just about selling jewelry—it’s about creating meaningful and lasting pieces that hold sentimental value for each client. With over two decades of experience, I ensure unparalleled craftsmanship and attention to detail in every custom design at Mike Nekta New York. Your satisfaction and trust are my top priorities throughout the entire process.

Ready to find your perfect halo ring or have questions about customizing your own design? Book an appointment with me, Mike Nekta, at Mike Nekta New York, and let’s create a piece as unique as your story. Schedule your personalized consultation today or visit our showroom to experience our exclusive collections firsthand. Contact us now to take the first step toward your dream ring!