If you’re thinking of popping the question or you’re looking for a ring with your partner, you’re probably trying to pick the perfect engagement ring that fits your budget but is also a ring that your partner is going to love for the rest of their life.
Halo diamond ring settings have not been around as long as the solitaire setting, but in recent years the popularity of halo settings has really taken off.
In this article we’re going to explain everything there is to know about halo and solitaire engagement rings, as well as the pros and cons of each.
The solitaire engagement ring setting
A solitaire ring refers to a single diamond (or other stone), which is mounted onto the ring setting and takes centre stage. It’s a timeless classic that has been popular for generations because of its simplicity and beauty. The most common type of centre stone is a round brilliant diamond, although nowadays sapphire, emerald, ruby and morganite are chosen for solitaire engagement rings.
A solitaire diamond is usually held in place by either four or six prongs that secure the centre stone to the ring setting.
Six Claw Solitaire
What are the pros of a solitaire ring setting?
– It’ll never go out of fashion
– Nothing will distract the eye from the centre stone
– Cleaning single-stone ring settings is much quicker
– Solitaire settings can be matched with a variety of different wedding bands
What are the cons of a solitaire ring setting?
– Large diamond stones are expensive
– A single centre stone can look smaller without embellishments around it
– The diamond’s girdle is sometimes exposed which can get damaged
– High ring settings can become caught on everyday objects
– Less protection around the centre stone
The halo engagement ring setting
The difference between a halo ring setting and a solitaire setting, is that smaller gemstones encircle the centre stone. This creates a halo effect, which can trick the eye into believing the centre stone is bigger and more sparkly.
You would think that a halo engagement ring would be more expensive, but you can actually get a smaller centre stone if you’re on a budget and use the encircling stones to make the centre one appear larger in size. Alternatively, if money isn’t an issue you can get a big centre stone and have a halo setting for extra bling!
Round Halo Engagement Ring
What are the pros of a halo ring setting?
– Many different styling options, such as choosing a diamond centre stone with colourful stones around the outside or vice versa
– Centre stone looks larger in size
– More bang for your buck as you can get away with a smaller centre stone
– The centre stone has more protection from its halo
– Works well with a number of diamond shapes
What are the cons of a halo ring setting?
– Smaller gemstones take longer to clean
– Ring should be inspected annually to make sure every stone is secure
– Many crevices where dirt and grime can build-up
– Too sparkly for some people
Should I buy a halo or solitaire engagement ring?
It completely comes down to what you prefer. There’s no right or wrong choice.
If you prefer something simple and elegant, then a solitaire ring might be for you. However, if you want something that is really going to catch people’s eye, perhaps a halo ring is more for you.
Whichever you choose, you’ll also need to take into consideration your budget. Halo rings are more reasonably priced, as the halo will accentuate the beauty of the centre gemstone. Solitaire rings have only a single stone and bigger stones are more expensive.
