Buying Guide for Halo Diamond Engagement Rings

In a world of ever-changing trends, there's a reason halo engagement rings continue to reign supreme. Yes, they’re super sparkly. But more than that, they amplify and elevate the beauty of the central diamond, whilst making a bold yet elegant style statement. Whether you opt for a classic round or a fancy oval diamond, halo engagement rings will always bring out the wow factor—making them perfect for any bride-to-be.

In this buying guide, we'll walk you through everything you need to know so you'll end up with the sparkler of her dreams.

Why Choose a Halo Setting?

The halo setting has remained a popular choice now for good reason. This engagement ring style features a center diamond encircled by a “halo” of smaller stones, which not only adds dimension to the ring's design but also makes the center stone appear larger (yep, optical illusion) and amps up the overall brilliance of the ring. The end result? A bigger-looking diamond ring that enables you to stay on budget.

Beyond their impressive appearance, halo rings also provide additional protection for the central diamond. Yes, you read that right. That's because the surrounding halo of smaller diamonds acts like a cushion, shielding the edges of the center stone from accidental bumps or chips during daily wear—making it a pretty and smart engagement ring choice!

And that's not all! Halo engagement rings offer endless versatility and can be easily customized to suit individual preferences. You can design a halo ring with just about any diamond shape of your choice—whether it's the traditional round-cut, trendy pear, or the stunning cushion. You can choose styles with a romantic, vintage aesthetic for a timeless vibe or pick pieces with a modern flair. Even three-stone halo rings can be considered by couples who want something even more exquisite. It doesn't matter what you choose; at the end of the day, you're sure to end up with a halo ring that's all about you.

Are Halo Rings Trending In 2025?

Yes, halo engagement rings are a popular choice for engagement rings in 2025.

In fact, recent industry data shows that halo settings account for nearly 30% of engagement ring sales this year, thanks to their ability to make center stones appear larger and more radiant.

Their popularity is further fueled by the influence of celebrities. With stars like Kate Middleton, Cardi B, Eva Longoria, Blake Lively, and Millie Bobby Brown proudly sporting halo engagement rings, this style remains in the limelight and continues to influence bridal trends.

So, if you're considering a halo engagement ring in 2025, you're in great company.

How To Buy A Halo Engagement Ring Of Your Dreams?

1. Figure Out a Budget

When shopping for a halo engagement ring, setting a budget is an essential first step. Because halo settings can make the center stone appear larger, you may be able to choose a slightly smaller diamond without sacrificing visual impact. This allows you to allocate more of your budget toward diamond quality or a unique band design. Keep in mind that halo rings often feature many small accent diamonds, which can increase the total cost; therefore, factor in the craftsmanship and metal choice as well.

PS: You can even consider lab-grown diamonds for your halo engagement ring.

Should you buy a lab-diamond halo engagement ring?

Many couples opt for lab diamonds for diamond jewelry, including halo engagement rings. They're chemically and visually identical to mined diamonds and offer an eco-friendly, ethically sourced alternative to mined diamonds. Lab diamonds are created in a controlled environment rather than mined from the earth, resulting in a lower environmental impact. Beyond these valuable benefits, they’re also affordable. You can get more carat weight or higher-quality lab diamonds for the price you planned to spend on a natural diamond.

Therefore, if you want to get the most value for your money, opt for lab-grown diamonds. You'll get an eco-friendly stone, without compromising on beauty and brilliance.

2. Select a Diamond for your Ring

In a halo ring, the central diamond draws the eyes inward, so choosing carefully is key. Whether you opt for a lab-grown or natural diamond, focus on these qualities:

• Cut: Cut is the most critical factor for sparkle. A well-cut diamond will reflect light brilliantly and work harmoniously with the surrounding halo.
• Shape: Popular center shapes for halo settings include round, oval, cushion, and pear-cut diamonds. A halo will follow the outline of your diamond, enhancing its silhouette and making it appear even larger.
• Color and Clarity: Diamonds of G-H color and VS1-VS2 clarity offer an excellent balance of quality and value. Ensure that the smaller diamonds are well-matched to the center diamond in terms of color and clarity for a cohesive, high-quality appearance.
• Carat Weight: Thanks to the halo, you can often go slightly smaller on the carat size without sacrificing visual impact. The extra sparkle from the halo makes the overall ring appear much larger.

You can always look for certified diamonds that come with a detailed report about the diamond grading—it's detailed and provides peace of mind.

3. Choose a Halo Style

Halo engagement rings are available in a variety of styles, including traditional, hidden, double, vintage, and floral. They each have a different vibe and match different types of bridal styles. Let's understand each, so you can pick the right one for you.

• Traditional halo rings: Have a single row of diamonds surrounding the central stone. It's a beautiful option for brides who want an elegant, modern ring.

• Double halo ring: This style features two concentric circles of diamonds, creating even more drama and sparkle. They're perfect for brides who want a statement piece.

• Hidden halo rings: If you're looking for a minimalist, understated engagement ring, this is the one for you! Hidden halo rings have diamonds quietly tucked underneath the center stone. While they're not visible straight up, they're visible from the side.

• Vintage halo rings: These rings combine the brilliance of a halo design with intricate details, such as milgrain, filigree, and ornate metalwork. They're ideal for the bride who appreciates romantic details.

4. Budgeting and Other Tips

• When budgeting for diamond jewelry, especially an engagement ring, focus on the cut of the diamond rather than just the carat weight. A well-cut diamond will sparkle more and appear larger, providing you with greater visual impact for your investment.
• Another helpful budgeting hint is to consider opting for a diamond that’s just shy of a milestone weight, such as 0.9 carats, instead of a full 1.0 carat. You’ll save money without sacrificing the diamond’s appearance.
• Pay attention to the proportions. Ensure that the halo complements the shape and size of the central diamond, rather than overpowering it.
• Go with lab-grown diamonds if sparkle with savings is your priority. One of the biggest advantages of choosing a lab-grown diamond is that you can often get a larger or higher-quality stone for the same budget as a mined diamond, which helps you stretch your dollars while still getting a stunning ring.
• Some halos sit high, while others are flush to the finger; try various styles to see what feels most comfortable and suits your hand best before committing to a ring.
• Band styles can also impact the overall look and cost of your ring. Plain bands allow your halo to do all the talking and are more economical. Pave and split shank diamond bands add more sparkle to the ring, but can also increase the overall cost of your piece.
• Halo rings can collect dirt between the tiny stones, so consider getting them cleaned professionally once or twice a year.

Final Thoughts

A halo diamond engagement ring is a beautiful blend of style, glamour, and modernity. It maximizes sparkle, enhances the center stone, and gives you the flexibility to work within your budget—especially when paired with a lab-grown diamond. Whether you love a classic halo or prefer something more unique, such as a hidden or double halo, taking the time to understand your options will help you choose a ring that reflects your style, values, and story.