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The Meaning and Allure of a Halo Engagement Ring: A Comprehensive Guide

Would you like a larger diamond for your ring, but the price tag is holding you back? Then a halo ring might be a great option. A halo ring optically enlarges your diamond by surrounding it with smaller diamonds. This enables you to stay on budget while benefiting from an impressive ring. So what is a halo engagement ring exactly? We will be happy to explain.  

 

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What Makes Halo Engagement Rings So Captivating?

Looking for a ring that makes your diamond appear larger without breaking the bank? A halo engagement ring might be your perfect solution. This elegant design surrounds a center stone with smaller diamonds, creating the illusion of a larger, more impressive diamond while keeping costs manageable.

The name "halo" references the atmospheric phenomenon where rings of light encircle the sun or moon—a fitting description for this setting that originated in the 1920s. The style has gained renewed popularity for its ability to maximize sparkle and visual impact.

Halo rings offer versatility with various center stone shapes including oval, emerald, and pear, each providing unique aesthetic benefits. Even celebrities like Beyoncé have embraced this style, showcasing its perfect blend of luxury and sophistication.

Whether for an engagement or as a statement piece, halo rings deliver elegance and brilliance that capture the radiance of true love.

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Why Halo Rings Are a Star-Studded Choice

Adding to their allure is the fact that even celebrities can't resist the charm of a halo on a ring. Take Beyoncé, for instance, whose engagement ring from Jay-Z is a spectacular halo design featuring an 18-carat flawless diamond. Beyoncé's iconic ring has not only set a high standard for elegance but also sparked a trend among those seeking a blend of luxury and sophistication in their own engagement rings.

Speaking of Beyoncé, it's impossible not to think of her hit song "Halo", a powerful ballad that speaks to the beauty and brilliance of true love. Much like the song, halo engagement rings encapsulate the idea of a radiant and unwavering connection, symbolised by the shimmering halo of diamonds that enhances the central gem. 

The meaning behind the name of the halo ring

The meaning of a halo ring - BAUNAT - an exquisite halo engagement ring, showcasing a sparkling diamond, resting on a pristine white surface
The term ‘halo’ refers to the phenomenon of light in the atmosphere when coloured or white rings are visible around the sun or moon. This circular light effect is reflected in the setting of a halo ring where a centre diamond is surrounded by smaller, round diamonds. The brilliance from all the stones creates the illusion of a single but impressive big diamond. This setting was created in the 1920s and, as with many other vintage styles, it is now gaining in popularity. 

 

Select your halo engagement ring here

Choosing the right centre stone

In a halo ring, either a colourless or coloured diamond could be used, as both give a sparkling result. But the setting does not require a diamond — does coloured gemstones, such as ruby or sapphire, are also perfectly suitable for a halo ring. 

Carat total weight vs. center-stone carat: what the halo adds

Carat total weight usually refers to the combined weight of the centre stone plus all accent stones on the ring. In halo settings, the small diamonds or gemstones around the centre contribute to that total carat weight figure you often see listed.

Why that matters

  • Perception versus reality: a halo can make the centre stone look larger by extending the visual outline, even though the centre stone’s own carat and diameter remain unchanged.
  • Listing clarity: when comparing rings, check whether the carat figure applies to the centre stone alone or to the total carat weight; this sets realistic expectations about the primary gem’s size.

A plain example

  • Two rings may show similar total carat weight numbers, but one may concentrate most of that weight in a single, substantial centre stone while the other spreads weight across many small accents. The latter appears more sparkly overall but does not necessarily have a larger central diamond when examined up close.

Quick guidance

  • If highlighting the main diamond is your priority, focus on centre-stone carat and visible diameter.
  • If overall radiance and presence matter more, a halo that adds to the total carat weight is an effective way to increase perceived glamour without changing the centre stone itself.



 

Choosing between different shapes

The oval halo engagement ring

BAUNAT oval cut diamond halo ring - white gold ring with a 1.50 carat, oval-cut diamond in halo setting 

Elegance redefined

The oval cut diamond is a classic choice that exudes sophistication and grace. Its elongated shape enhances the finger's appearance, making it look slender and elegant. The oval cut's brilliance rivals that of a round diamond, but its unique shape sets it apart, making it a choice for those who appreciate timeless beauty with a modern twist.
Why choose an oval cut halo? 



  • Captivating sparkle: The symmetrical shape allows for excellent light distribution, resulting in a dazzling display of brilliance. 

  • Versatility: The oval cut complements various settings and styles, making it an ideal choice for both traditional and contemporary tastes. 

  • Enhanced size: The elongated shape can make the diamond appear larger than its actual carat weight. 

The emerald cut halo engagement ring

Emerald cut halo engagement ring BAUNAT - emerald cut halo engagement ring featuring a stunning diamond with a strong mirror effect

Understated luxury

For those who admire understated elegance and a vintage appeal, the emerald cut diamond is the epitome of luxury. Known for its rectangular shape and stepped facets, the emerald cut offers a "hall of mirrors" effect, reflecting light in a way that is both subtle and striking. 
Why choose an emerald cut halo?

  • Timeless elegance: the clean lines and geometric precision of the emerald cut lend a sophisticated and timeless look to any ring.

  • Clarity showcase: this cut emphasises the diamond's clarity, allowing you to appreciate the stone's inner beauty.

  • Unique appeal: the emerald cut is less common than other shapes, making it a unique choice for those seeking something different.

The pear shaped halo engagement ring

White gold pear shaped engagement ring halo BAUNAT - white gold engagement ring crafted with a pear-shaped diamond cut in a halo setting

A touch of whimsy

The pear-shaped diamond, also known as the teardrop diamond, combines the best of the oval and marquise cuts. Its distinctive shape adds a touch of whimsy and romance to any halo engagement ring. The pear shape's pointed end can be worn facing up or down, offering versatility in style.
Why choose a pear shaped halo?

  • Distinctive style: its unique shape makes a bold statement, perfect for those who want their ring to stand out.

  • Flattering form: the elongated shape flatters the hand, giving an appearance of a longer, more slender finger.

  • Versatile wear: whether worn with the point facing up or down, the pear shape offers different looks for different occasions.

For which occasions are halo rings suited?

Halo ring with diamonds and sapphire - BAUNAT
A halo ring exudes elegance and class. These types of rings are often used as an engagement ring with a few colourless diamonds. If you’re looking for something more suited to daily wear, you may put a different gemstone in the centre. That adds a touch of colour and the halo ring will really sparkle. 

View the sapphire halo ring close up here

Want something more subtle? Check out our other options.

Besides the halo ring, we have other types of rings and settings. The halo ring lends itself to a statement ring. If you would rather have something more subtle , take a look at the following options:





Browse the BAUNAT halo ring collection here

Frequently asked Questions

What is a halo?

A halo is a diamond setting where a central main stone is surrounded by smaller stones, which creates the illusion that it looks bigger. The term ‘halo’ refers to the phenomenon of light in the atmosphere when coloured or white rings are visible around the sun or moon.

What is a ruby?

A ruby is a pink to blood-red coloured gemstone and a variety of the mineral corundum. A ruby is considered as the gemstone of love, energy, passion and power, and is the birthstone for the month July.

What is a sapphire and is sapphire a gemstone?

Gemstones must meet the definition: durable, rare stones with a certain hardness. That applies for diamonds, rubies, emeralds and therefore sapphires as well. After diamond, sapphire is the hardest material on Earth. Sapphires exist in many colours, but the blue variant is the most valuable. Most weigh more than 4 carat. The most valuable sapphires are found in Sri Lanka.

  • Fabienne Rauw

  • BAUNAT Antwerp

  • Fabienne, manager of the German market is able to guide every client with finding the right jewel. She takes care of most of the German orders, but also takes other task on her plate. Thanks to her six  years of experience at BAUNAT she acquainted well with the product and the marketing around it. Her degree in PR ensures that BAUNAT is well presented across all media channels. For anyone looking into a new investment opportunity, Fabienne is the perfect guide in this process. No question will be left unanswered, and she will help you every step of the way.

    Selected Bespoke Projects

    • Eternal Bloom bespoke engagement concept - Role: project lead for client briefing and prototype coordination. Fabienne translated personal design references into a 3D-printed prototype, supervised stone selection and ensured the finished piece matched the client’s vision and comfort preferences.

    • Personalized anniversary necklace - Role: design coordinator and quality overseer. She managed the custom design process from the initial sketch to final polishing, liaising between client and workshop to preserve proportions and finish.

    • Reimagined heirloom ring restoration and redesign - Role: client consultant and technical coordinator. Fabienne guided the client through options to modernize setting details while keeping sentimental elements, delivering a wearable result that respected the original piece.

    Her hands-on involvement in bespoke commissions ensures each custom order has a clear brief, careful prototype review and close follow-up with the workshop, so clients receive a tailored jewel that meets both aesthetic and practical expectations.

    Professional enquiries

    For speaking engagements, press requests or research collaborations, please send your message to BAUNAT’s communications team with the subject line: "Fabienne Rauw  -  Professional Enquiry." Include a brief description of the request and any relevant dates or documents. The communications team will route enquiries to Fabienne and provide guidance on next steps.

Fabienne, manager of the German market is able to guide every client with finding the right jewel. She takes care of most of the German orders, but also takes other task on her plate. Thanks to her six  years of experience at BAUNAT she acquainted well with the product and the marketing around it. Her degree in PR ensures that BAUNAT is well presented across all media channels. For anyone looking into a new investment opportunity, Fabienne is the perfect guide in this process. No question will be left unanswered, and she will help you every step of the way.

Selected Bespoke Projects

• Eternal Bloom bespoke engagement concept - Role: project lead for client briefing and prototype coordination. Fabienne translated personal design references into a 3D-printed prototype, supervised stone selection and ensured the finished piece matched the client’s vision and comfort preferences.

• Personalized anniversary necklace - Role: design coordinator and quality overseer. She managed the custom design process from the initial sketch to final polishing, liaising between client and workshop to preserve proportions and finish.

• Reimagined heirloom ring restoration and redesign - Role: client consultant and technical coordinator. Fabienne guided the client through options to modernize setting details while keeping sentimental elements, delivering a wearable result that respected the original piece.

Her hands-on involvement in bespoke commissions ensures each custom order has a clear brief, careful prototype review and close follow-up with the workshop, so clients receive a tailored jewel that meets both aesthetic and practical expectations.

Professional enquiries

For speaking engagements, press requests or research collaborations, please send your message to BAUNAT’s communications team with the subject line: "Fabienne Rauw  -  Professional Enquiry." Include a brief description of the request and any relevant dates or documents. The communications team will route enquiries to Fabienne and provide guidance on next steps.