Antique & Vintage Halo Engagement Rings

Second in popularity to the iconic solitaire ring, halo set rings are a fantastic option for an engagement ring. Perfect if you're looking for something which makes a statement in addition to being good value.

The unique design of the halo style diamond ring features a large central diamond, surrounded by a 'halo' of smaller (normally pavé set) diamonds. The halo of gemstones sparkles magnificently, while drawing attention to the main central stone.

Although many examples feature a clean, plain band, it is also common to see halo rings with pavé set diamonds in part of the shank. Pavé, means to closely set small diamonds together; creating a continuous sparkle.

Typically, it is most common to see this style created with diamonds, however, other colourful gemstones can also be used. If you are looking for a striking style, you could opt for a coloured gemstone around the edge of the ring, or as the feature stone.

Early versions of this style can be traced back to the Georgian era. At this time, examples would feature small diamonds or pearls as the 'halo'.

Fast forward through time and we find ourselves at the Victorian era: during this period the halo style was still going strong, often mimicking the shape of a flower, with bright, triangle cut gemstones surrounding a centre stone.

It wasn't until the 1920s however, and the dawn of the Art Deco era, that halo engagement rings as we know them today began to grow in popularity. During the 1920s these rings would mainly feature round or cushion cut diamonds. They would most commonly be crafted in white gold or platinum, with a clean, chic and quintessentially 'Art Deco' finish.

It is this modern looking Art Deco style that has maintained popularity until the 21st century. Perfect for those who have a love of all things vintage, but also like a modern edge.

There are many different types of halo engagement rings that include various techniques and gemstones.

Majority of halo ring styles are what is known as a 'seamless' halo, where the central stone sits flush to the surrounding border of diamonds. However, halo rings can often have a small space in between the halo and feature stone- displaying the true 'halo' shape of surrounding stones. This often occurs when the central stone is set slightly elevated and encircled with a separate paralleling halo border.

Floral Halo rings are often interchangeable with floral cluster rings, as arguably the rings usually hold a similar halo or cluster of diamonds surrounding a central stone. Floral halo rings are recognisable through their distinct petal-like arrangement though commonly a halo of diamonds surround a feature stone, often claw set or made slightly more distinctively through collet settings and embellishment.

Gemstone halo rings make a beautiful engagement ring choice. A diamond border surrounds a feature coloured gemstone, giving you the best of both with tradition and colour. Similar cluster-styles have often been the choice of members of the royal family, particularly sapphire designs. Gemstone halo rings can also be a halo of coloured gemstones surrounding a diamond, for a subtler touch of colour.

Art Deco styles often encompass diamond halos within millegrain decorated setting. Well suited to the geometric designs of the time, the technique became popular during the period and was often used to enhance the halo's brilliance and sparkle.

A double halo ring is two rows of smaller diamonds surrounding the central stone, creating a 'double' halo effect to enhance the rings radiance and impact. This style is often seen in some circular designs but can be seen in vintage rectangular settings as well.

A halo ring can often give the illusion of a bigger diamond. Traditionally an illusion setting presents a diamond surrounded by detailed metal work but in some cases a halo of diamonds can also create a similar look, though the diamonds are more distinct.

A hidden halo ring is an engagement ring style featuring a discreet circle of diamonds or gemstones positioned beneath the main stone. This design element is generally not visible from the top view but can be appreciated from the side. The hidden halo amplifies the ring's sparkle, enhancing its brilliance and creating the appearance of a larger centre stone. This design is favoured for its understated elegance, providing a stunning effect while maintaining a refined look. Its modern and streamlined aesthetic makes the hidden halo a popular choice, as it subtly enriches the ring's overall allure.

Yes, halo engagement rings are an excellent choice for those seeking beauty and value. The additional diamonds in the setting amplify the overall shine and size of the ring, allowing you to choose a slightly smaller or lower-clarity centre diamond without compromising on appearance.

Yes, halo rings are designed to maximise brilliance. The surrounding diamonds catch and reflect light from multiple angles, giving the ring a noticeably brighter and more dazzling appearance.

The halo of smaller diamonds draws the eye to the central stone, amplifying its visual impact. This not only makes the centre diamond appear larger, but also enhances its sparkle by surrounding it with extra light-reflecting facets.

Yes, halo settings complement a wide range of diamond shapes. For round and cushion cuts, the halo adds depth and brilliance. For more elongated shapes like pear or marquise cuts, the halo can help balance proportions and add symmetry to the overall design.