You don’t necessarily need a large diamond ring to really stand out. The way the diamonds are set can have a huge impact on the final piece. For example, halo engagement rings use smaller diamonds around the central gemstone to create a more full look.
When paired together with lab diamonds you can create a stunning ring. A lab diamond halo engagement ring combines a classic diamond style with lab grown diamonds. Giving you a range of options from a delicate ring to a dramatic ring.
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Understanding How the Halo Will Affect the Ring
Halo settings are a circular or shaped design of small diamonds around a larger central gemstone. This causes the smaller diamonds to reflect light off at various angles. Creating extra sparkle.
This can really show when the central gem and halo are close together.
Using a halo setting can create the illusion that your central diamond looks larger than it actually is. How much of an impact this has will depend on how wide your halo is, how large the smaller diamonds are and what shape your central gem is.
Some styles will have a very thin border of diamonds, whereas others will have a larger halo. Neither is better, it just depends if you prefer a subtle ring or one with more impact.
Lab Created Diamonds
Lab created diamonds are real diamonds created using technology. They have similar chemical make-up, crystal structure and physical properties compared to natural diamonds.
There are two main ways to create them. Either through Chemical Vapour Deposition or High Pressure High Temperature.
Both methods can create diamonds that are suitable for rings.
It can also allow you to try different sizes and quality of your central diamond. Lab diamonds are usually cheaper then natural diamonds, but this will depend on the retailer and the specific specs.
Companies like Novita Diamonds sell lab diamond jewellery so you can try different shapes and settings.
Central Gemstone
A lot of the personality of the ring will come from the central diamond. The shape of the diamond will affect how the halo is set.
Round
Round Brilliant diamonds are a popular choice for halo rings. Due to the symmetry the halo will create a nice even circle.
This is great for someone who likes a classic look for their engagement ring.
Oval
If you choose an oval central gemstone you will get an elongated look. Pairing this with a thin halo will give the impression that the ring is longer on the finger.
Ensure you check the proportions of the oval and that it doesn’t have a noticeable dark bow tie in the centre.
Cushion
Cushion cut diamonds have rounded edges and are either a square or rectangle. This can be enhanced with a halo setting.
Some of the cushion halo settings can create a vintage look. Especially if they have milgrain detailing.
Pear
Pear cut diamonds have one round edge and one pointy edge. You need to ensure the halo is set correctly to enhance the shape of the diamond.
The pointy end should also be well protected.
Metal
The type of metal you pick will really change how the central gem and halo look.
White gold and platinum will give you a nice even look with colourless/near colourless diamonds. Yellow diamonds will give you a warm contrast. Rose gold will give you a softer pink.
Platinum is a natural white and will generally not require as much maintenance as rhodium plated white gold. However over time both can cause some surface wear.
If you have many small diamonds in the halo you will notice the quality of the metal and setting will matter more.
Things To Consider
Sometimes rings look amazing in pictures but may not be what you expect. Here are some things to consider.
Diamond Grading. Ensure you have an independent grading report for your central diamond. This should tell you the carat weight, colour, clarity and any information on the cut.
Halo Evenness. The diamonds should be set evenly around the central gem.
High Setting. If your diamond is set high it may catch on your clothes.
Thin Band. Thin bands can look very elegant however how durable they are will depend on how they’re made, what metal they are and how they’re worn.
Resizing. Some rings may be difficult to resize especially if the diamonds wrap around the band.
When looking at rings from Novita Diamonds or specialist jewellers look at the full specifications.
Total Carat Weight. This may be the central diamond and small diamonds.
Security Of Small Diamonds
Due to there being more individual diamonds in a halo ring there will be more settings and prongs which may need some attention over the years.
Cleaning regularly will help remove any build up of soap, oils and dirt.
Generally you can clean an undamaged diamond ring using a soft brush, gentle dish soap and warm water. Just ensure your jeweller says it’s safe to do so.
Avoid wearing your ring whilst doing any heavy impacts or harsh chemicals. If you feel like any of the diamonds are loose stop wearing your ring and take it to a jeweller.
Ask about any checks, repairs and warranty.
Hidden Halos
Not all halos will sit around your central gem.
A hidden halo will sit underneath your central gem. Usually around the basket. This can create the illusion that it’s a solitaire ring when looking from the top. However you will see the extra diamonds from the side.
This would be good if you like the look of having one central diamond but want some extra detailing.
It won’t give you the same look of having a larger diamond from the top.
When looking at different designs on Novita Diamonds you can look at the side view photos to see the differences.
Wedding Band. Some halo settings will be higher meaning you can have a straight wedding band that sits nicely. However some may have a gap or need a curved band. It’s worth checking how they fit together before buying.
