There aren't many secrets when it comes to a quality diamond ring. The effortless beauty of the diamond is undeniable, and its pure radiance is simply mesmerizing. This may seem shocking, but there are “hidden” or subtle ways to enhance and elevate the glow of an already brilliant diamond ring! Let’s hone in on the elegance of a hidden halo engagement ring to understand why this design is so special and a popular choice among brides! There is no such thing as too much sparkle, right? Let’s answer the question: what is a hidden halo ring?
What Is a Hidden Halo?
A hidden halo ring features just that: a hidden halo, which is a delicate row of pavé or micro-pavé diamonds that are fastened underneath the center diamond of an engagement ring. Typically, the hidden halo setting surrounds the basket that the diamond “sits in.”
Halo vs. Hidden Halo
Halo engagement rings feature a traditional halo setting, where accent stones surround the center stone, enhancing its size and sparkle. In contrast, a hidden halo engagement ring places the tiny diamonds beneath the center stone, adding a subtle sparkle that’s visible from the side. Both styles can be part of a stunning bridal set, but the choice between a traditional halo and a hidden halo ring ultimately depends on your preferred ring style and how much you want the diamond details to stand out.
A hidden halo diamond ring is different from a traditional halo ring because the diamonds are situated under the ring’s center stone, while a traditional halo is a row of pavé or micro-pavé diamonds that surround the top of the center stone.
Design Features of Hidden Halo Rings
The hidden diamond halo ring is a lovely touch - the perfect lux “something extra.” The main design features of a hidden halo are:
- The hidden halo is not visible from the top of the ring, therefore it doesn’t compete with the center diamond.
- The hidden halo adds additional sparkle from the ring’s side angles which essentially enhances the ring’s 360-degree beauty!
- A hidden halo increases the ring’s brilliance which often makes the center stone appear larger because more light is being reflected!
Subtle and Unique Design
While a hidden halo enhances the overall glow and sparkle of the diamond engagement ring, it’s still an excellent option for minimalists as it’s a subtle way to add a special design component without taking away from the main event, aka, the center diamond.
Plus, a hidden diamond halo ring works well with all of the diamond shapes (i.e. emerald, pear, cushion, oval, round) so it’s always an option during the design process. Understanding the different types of diamond cuts can further enhance the choice of a hidden halo, ensuring the best fit for your ring.
Popular Styles and Variations of Hidden Halo Rings
The hidden halo complements a wide range of band styles—you basically can't go wrong! Whether it’s a solitaire, pavé band, twisted band, or three-stone setting—the halo adds a remarkable touch every single time. A halo is such a versatile design choice for a diamond engagement ring. Exploring the different styles of engagement rings can inspire the perfect pairing with a hidden halo.
If you’re looking to elevate the level of glam, there is a double hidden halo feature! A double hidden halo is created when two rows of pavé diamonds sit beneath the center stone - BAM!
Hidden halo engagement rings look lovely with any kind of metal! 14K White, yellow, and rose gold, along with platinum, are all excellent choices! Whether you choose a solitaire or halo engagement ring, the hidden halo subtly enhances the overall brilliance.
Consider Your Partner's Style and Preferences
The hidden halo is such a subtle element that it won’t significantly alter the overall style of the ring. However, if your partner is okay with or without it, we often suggest including it as a surprise in the final ring design. If you’re not seeing your dream ring on our website, our custom bridal team can create the design that you’re yearning for! Quality and attention to detail are at our core. Our custom process is tailored to you and your vision.
Budget Considerations
The hidden halo won’t make or break your budget - it’s a small detail in the grand scheme of things. Our team of GIA certified specialists bring exquisite custom pieces to life. It’s essential that each client feels supported throughout the entire process, start to finish, regardless of budget. We’re committed to finding ways to make your vision a reality without breaking the bank! Please reach out to get the process started!
Caring for Your Hidden Halo Engagement Ring
Our biggest piece of advice to brides is to always take your ring off when you sleep, work out, swim, and shower. While diamonds and metal are very durable, for the longevity of your ring and to ensure you have minimal issues, it’s really best to avoid wearing your ring while doing these things. Pro tip: bring your ring to a reputable jeweler for a yearly deep clean and inspection.
The following are some helpful tips to consider when caring for your fine jewelry.
- Steer clear of harsh chemicals like bleach, chlorine, and acetone. These substances can weaken the ring. Similarly, avoid abrasive cleaners such as powdered cleaners and toothpaste, as they can erode the metal and alter the color.
- Use only soft brushes, as stiff-bristled or abrasive cleaning tools can scratch the ring.
- Be mindful of thick lotions and creams. These can leave a residue on your ring, making it appear dirty and potentially leading to discoloration.
Gentle Cleaning Remedies for Hidden Halo Rings
- Good old soap and water! Our favorite jewelry cleaning cocktail is warm water, gentle dish soap, and a soft toothbrush. A brush is extra important as it’s a safe way to get in between small cracks where gross things settle.
- A jewelry cleaner - like the DRD Jewelry Cleaner - also works, but there needs to be something to move the dirt away, that’s why a soft toothbrush is great. Combine water with the contents of one DRD cleanser pod in the eco-friendly jar, immerse your jewels in the solution, let rest for five minutes, then scrub with the gentle brush (that’s included) to remove any gunk, rinse, and blot dry with a soft cloth! The solution is good for several uses; however, we recommend changing out the water once it becomes murky. The system comes with two cleanser pods. [Please note this cleanser is not safe to use on pearls, soft stones or other gemstones].
- We also offer our Jewelry Dish and Cleaner Set that comes with our cleaning solution! Everyone needs a trinket tray to store their favorite everyday jewels!
Reminders:
- The gym is good for the mind/body and tough on jewels. Weight lifting, tightly gripping the handles of an elliptical, pressing your hands into the floor as you finally achieve that perfect handstand - these are all situations that can warp your ring. Our Travel Jewelry Zip Case is great to have on hand when you need to take your precious jewelry off!
- The #1 place where jewelry gets lost is in water (pools, oceans, and lakes)! Plunging into water or even hitting a surprise wave can easily remove jewelry from a slippery body. Skin naturally shrinks in water, which causes jewelry to fit much looser.
The overall beauty of jewelry is truly endless. The outward allure brings infinite joy to the eyes, while the sentiment of the jewel creates a stunning link between inner and outer splendor, which intrinsically connects the heart and mind. Design elements, like hidden halos, are ways to enhance a ring’s natural beauty, which in turn, elevates the emotional attachment. The entire engagement ring/jewelry shopping process should be both emotional and fun! This is a time where every detail matters while love guides the way.
