Hidden Halo Vs Halo Lab Grown Diamond Rings Key Differences
Halo and hidden halo lab-grown diamond rings are becoming super popular with engaged couples, jewelry lovers, and eco-friendly shoppers! These gorgeous rings highlight the shine of lab-grown diamonds and come in styles that fit all sorts of tastes.
In this article, we’ll talk about the key differences between these two stunning styles, their aesthetics, benefits, and how each one can showcase your style. Let’s help you make the best choice for your special occasion!
What Is a Halo Setting?
A halo setting is a super popular style in jewelry, especially for engagement rings. It features a central gemstone surrounded by a circle, or “halo,” of smaller accent stones—usually diamonds. This design boosts the overall sparkle and makes the center stone look even more prominent.
If we take a little stroll through history, we can see how ring designs have evolved over the years. Starting with the Georgian Era (1714-1837), we saw cluster rings that showcased a central gemstone surrounded by smaller stones, often using cushion-cut diamonds or garnets.
Then came the Victorian Era (1837-1901), where new cutting techniques from the Industrial Revolution allowed for more intricate designs, featuring larger center stones and lovely halo settings with smaller bezel-set diamonds.
The Edwardian Era (1901-1910) took halo settings to the next level with delicate filigree work, and platinum became a go-to material, adding a touch of elegance. Fast forward to the Art Deco Era (1920s-1930s), and we see a revival of halo settings with bold geometric patterns and colorful gemstones.
Now, in the Modern Era, halo settings are still a favorite for engagement rings. They’re loved for their timeless elegance and the way they enhance the center stone's appearance, plus we have fun contemporary twists like hidden halos and mixed metal designs.
What Is a Hidden Halo Setting?
Have you heard about the hidden halo engagement rings? It's such a unique and elegant design! Instead of placing a circle of small pavé diamonds around the center stone, they’re tucked underneath it. This means you can't see the halo from above, but when you look at it from the side, it adds a lovely sparkle that enhances the center stone’s brilliance. It makes the stone look bigger and more radiant without being over the top.
A lot of people love the Hidden Halo for its understated elegance and modern vibe. It has a personal touch that’s perfect for those who appreciate a minimalist but luxurious look. Plus, the smooth profile makes it super comfortable to wear every day!
Key Differences Between Halo and Hidden Halo Lab-Grown Diamond Rings
Visibility of Diamonds
Halo: So in a halo setting you have smaller diamonds that surround the center stone, it looks like a ring of sparkle around the center diamond. It makes the center diamond look bigger and more brilliant!
Hidden Halo: Now with a hidden halo the smaller diamonds are set underneath the center stone. You can’t see them from the top but when you look at the ring from the side they add an extra sparkle. It’s a subtle way to add extra sparkle without taking the focus off the center stone.
Design Focus
Halo: When it comes to halo rings the focus is on the diamonds surrounding the center stone. This setup draws attention and creates a bold glamorous look. Plus you can customize the halo in different shapes and sizes to match the center diamond!
Hidden Halo: With hidden halo designs the focus is mainly on the center stone, while the additional diamonds add a little extra. This is great for someone who wants a more understated look. It keeps the center diamond as the star and adds a bit of sparkle.
Aesthetic Appeal
Halo: Halo rings are all about that sparkle and show. The surrounding diamonds amplify the center stone’s brilliance, and the halo lab grown engagement ring looks super high-end. If you love statement pieces that make a big impact this is the design for you!
Hidden Halo: On the other hand, hidden halo rings strike a balance between simplicity and sophistication. Those hidden diamonds add a delightful surprise and elegance, giving the hidden halo engagement ring a refined, classy look. If you appreciate subtle details and a delicate aesthetic, you’ll love this hidden halo design!
Pros and Cons of Halo Lab-Grown Diamond Rings
Pros of Halo Lab-Grown Diamond Rings
- Affordability: Lab-grown diamonds are generally more affordable than natural diamonds. This means you can get a larger or higher-quality diamond for the same price.
- Ethical and Eco-Friendly: Lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments, which means they don’t involve the environmental damage or ethical issues associated with mining. This makes them a more sustainable choice.
- Appearance: Halo settings enhance the appearance of the center diamond, making it look larger and more brilliant. The small diamonds surrounding the larger center stone add extra sparkle and elegance.
- Customization: Lab-grown diamonds offer a wide range of customization options. You can choose the size, shape, and color of both the center stone and the halo to match your style.
Cons of Halo Lab-Grown Diamond Rings
- Resale Value: Lab-grown diamonds typically have a lower resale value compared to natural diamonds. This is because they are not as rare and can be produced in large quantities.
- Perception: Some people may still prefer natural diamonds due to their traditional value and the perception that they are more "authentic".
- Maintenance: Halo settings can be more challenging to clean and maintain. The small diamonds in the halo can collect dirt and require regular cleaning to keep their sparkle.
- Trend Sensitivity: While halo settings are currently popular, trends in jewelry can change. What is fashionable today might not be as desirable in the future.
Related Read: Lab Grown V.S. Natural Diamonds: All You Need To Know
Pros and Cons of Hidden Halo Lab-Grown Diamond Rings
Pros of Hidden Halo Lab-Grown Diamond Rings
- Subtle Sparkle: Hidden halo settings give a lovely touch of sparkle right under the center diamond. So, you get that extra shine without it being too over-the-top!
- Enhanced Center Stone: The hidden halo can make your center diamond look bigger and more brilliant. Those little diamonds around it help reflect light onto the main stone, which is pretty cool.
- Modern and Unique: If you’re looking for something trendy and different, hidden halos are a fantastic choice! They put a fun twist on the traditional halo setting, making your ring stand out.
- Cost-Effective: Lab-grown diamonds usually come with a friendlier price tag than natural ones. This means you can score a bigger or higher-quality diamond while sticking to your budget!
- Ethical and Eco-Friendly: Since lab-grown diamonds are made in controlled settings, they have a smaller environmental footprint and dodge the ethical concerns tied to mining. Win-win!
Related Read: The Ultimate Buying Guide to Lab Diamond Engagement Ring
Cons of Hidden Halo Lab-Grown Diamond Rings
- Less Visible Sparkle: Because the halo is tucked away beneath the center stone, it doesn’t shine as brightly as in a traditional halo setting.
- Higher Setting: Some hidden halo rings might sit a bit higher on your finger, which can make them feel bulkier and sometimes less comfy to wear.
- Fragility: Those small diamonds in the hidden halo can be a little delicate and prone to damage, so you’ll want to be extra careful with your ring.
- Resale Value: Generally speaking, lab-grown diamonds don’t hold the same value as natural ones. Since they’re not as rare and can be mass-produced, their resale value tends to be lower.
Halo Vs. Hidden Halo: Which Is Right for You?
Consider Your Style
Halo Rings: If you're into bold and eye-catching designs, a halo ring could be just what you need! The smaller diamonds that circle the center stone create a stunning effect, making it look bigger and more brilliant. Plus, this style is super versatile and looks great with different diamond shapes like round, oval, and pear.
Hidden Halo Rings: If you prefer a more subtle elegance, hidden halo rings are perfect for you! The smaller diamonds are tucked beneath the center stone, adding a touch of sparkle without stealing the spotlight from the main gem. This modern design is just right for a minimalist and contemporary vibe.
Budget Considerations
Halo Rings: If you're looking to add some extra sparkle without breaking the bank, halo rings are a great choice! The surrounding diamonds boost the brilliance and make the center stone look bigger. Just keep in mind that with those extra diamonds and the fancy setting, the cost and maintenance might go up a bit.
Hidden Halo Rings: On the other hand, hidden halo rings can be a bit easier on the wallet since they feature fewer visible diamonds. Plus, they usually need less maintenance because those diamonds are tucked safely beneath the center stone.
Occasion & Lifestyle
Halo Rings: These are perfect for those special moments when you want your jewelry to stand out. Just keep in mind that their intricate designs might need a bit more cleaning and care. If you're always on the go, be aware that the smaller diamonds could get loose over time.
Hidden Halo Rings: These are great for everyday wear! They fit comfortably and have a more subtle look. Plus, the hidden diamonds are less likely to get damaged, making them a smart choice if you're active.
In the end, choosing between a halo and a hidden halo ring comes down to your style, budget, and how you live your life. Both styles have their perks, so think about what's most important to you when making your choice!
Customizing Your Halo or Hidden Halo Lab-Grown Diamond Ring
Customizing your ring allows you to create a piece of jewelry that truly reflects your personality and style. Whether you choose a halo or hidden halo setting, there are several ways to make your ring unique.
You can select different diamond shapes, such as round, princess, or oval, to suit your preferences. Additionally, you can choose the metal for the band—white gold, yellow gold, or platinum—to complement the diamonds and your skin tone.
Adding personalized engravings or selecting colored gemstones for the halo can also enhance your ring's special touch. At CaratBee, we offer a range of customization options to help you design a ring that is uniquely yours. Work with our experienced jewelers to explore all the possibilities!
Conclusion
Whether you’re leaning towards a halo or a hidden halo lab-grown diamond ring, both options bring their unique charm and elegance that can shine during engagements or special occasions. A halo setting features a gorgeous center diamond surrounded by smaller ones, creating a stunning sparkle that catches the eye.
When deciding, think about your style, budget, and lifestyle—these factors can help you find the perfect ring for you. If you’d like some help picking or customizing your dream ring, don’t hesitate to reach out to our friendly experts! They’re here to guide you through the options and make sure your choice reflects your unique personality and love story.
