As diamond cuts evolve, new settings have gained prominence and captivated the attention of jewelry enthusiasts. Among these settings, the Halo setting has emerged as a particularly popular choice. In this article, we aim to provide you with a comprehensive understanding of the Halo setting.
We will delve into the history and origins of the Halo setting, exploring its fascinating background. Additionally, we will showcase exquisite jewelry pieces featuring this setting and discuss the corresponding price ranges.
If you’re curious to uncover the intriguing facts about the Halo setting, we invite you to embark on this informative journey with us. So, without further ado, let’s delve into the world of Halo settings.
DESIGN YOUR OWN ENGAGEMENT RING: START WITH A SETTING OR START WITH A DIAMOND. IT’S REALLY UP TO YOU!
What Is A Halo Setting?
Before we delve into more intricate details, let’s start by understanding the concept of a Halo setting.
A Halo setting is characterized by a central stone, typically larger in size, that is surrounded by a ring of smaller accent stones, often pavé diamonds, forming a halo-like circle around the center stone. The accent stones can either complement the shape of the central stone or match it precisely. For example, a round diamond might be adorned with a cushion-cut halo.
This concise explanation serves as a foundation for comprehending the Halo setting as we explore further in this article. It’s essential to keep this definition in mind as we delve deeper into the topic.
Moreover, the Halo setting can be categorized as a variant of the pavé setting, featuring a centerpiece of specific shape and size, encircled by smaller diamonds arranged in a circular manner.
Engagement rings are where the Halo setting shines the most. Its popularity stems from the mesmerizing sparkle it imparts, making it an ideal choice for engagement rings. Additionally, the Halo setting strikes a balance between elegance and versatility, allowing the wearer to adorn it effortlessly in both casual and formal settings.
History Of The Halo Setting
Cluster rings, which served as the precursor to halo rings, emerged during the Georgian era spanning from 1714 to 1837. Rather than fading into obscurity, they evolved with innovative styling during the subsequent Victorian era.
Georgian cluster rings typically featured a smaller cushion-cut diamond encircled by mine-cut or rose-cut diamonds. Alternatively, they incorporated flat-shaped gemstones like garnets paired with seed pearls. To enhance the color and conceal flaws of the hand-cut, imperfect gemstones and diamonds, these cluster rings were backed with foil.
The surviving pieces exuded a distinct charm with their elegantly rough-hewn appearance, each possessing its own unique character. The Victorian era, influenced by the Industrial Revolution and advancements in cutting techniques, gave rise to more sophisticated variations of cluster rings.
These designs showcased bold aesthetics, with a larger cushion-cut center stone surrounded by bezel-set old mine-cut diamonds. Many designs featured floral-inspired surrounds, especially those incorporating rounder old mine-cut diamonds or colorful gemstones like rubies and sapphires.
The Art Deco Movement of 1920 to 1935 witnessed the emergence of early iterations of the halo setting as we recognize it today. Technological advancements in cutting techniques played a pivotal role during this era. Symmetry and streamlined geometry became focal points, with square-cut diamonds complemented by square halo settings or oval halos that echoed the lines of oval diamonds.
In contemporary times, Gabriel & Co. leads the way in developing a diverse range of halo designs. From traditional to dramatic, understated to provocative, and ultra-modern to vintage-inspired, they offer a plethora of options.
Both men seeking engagement rings for proposals and women involved in the selection process gravitate towards halo styles.
Understanding the rich history behind the Halo setting emphasizes its significance. Sharing the backstory of a jewelry piece featuring a Halo setting and a beautiful diamond makes for engaging conversation starters. These settings often possess centuries-old histories that captivate our imagination and appreciation.
Why Is Halo Setting So Popular?
The popularity of the Halo setting cannot be denied. It seems to be everywhere you look when it comes to diamonds. But what makes this setting so incredibly popular? Let’s dive into the reasons behind its widespread appeal.
First and foremost, the Halo setting offers a sense of luxury and prestige without breaking the bank. While it may not be inexpensive, it certainly provides more value than meets the eye. Unlike some other settings, such as the Pave setting, the Halo setting gives you a lot of bang for your buck.
One of the key factors contributing to the popularity of the Halo setting is its stunning visual impact. The arrangement of the center diamond surrounded by smaller side stones creates a vibrant and rich look. It strikes a balance between bulkiness and elegance, which is highly sought after in the market today.
Furthermore, the Halo setting is incredibly versatile, particularly in the realm of rings. It allows for a great deal of creativity and personalization. From the choice of precious metals to the selection of side stones and the size of the centerpiece, you have the opportunity to create a truly unique piece of jewelry. Many people see this as a chance to add their personal touch and create a one-of-a-kind item that cannot be replicated.
However, it’s important to note that while there is room for personalization, there are still limitations to consider. There are only so many options available within the Halo setting design. So, while you can create a customized piece, there are still some boundaries to keep in mind.
In summary, the popularity of the Halo setting stems from its ability to provide a luxurious and prestigious look at a relatively affordable price. Its visually appealing design and versatility in customization make it a sought-after choice for many jewelry enthusiasts.
Best Diamonds For The Halo Setting
Diamonds offer incredible versatility, with various types and colors to choose from. When it comes to the Halo setting, some diamonds complement it beautifully, while others may not be as suitable. Let’s explore the top three picks for the best diamonds to pair with the Halo setting:
- Regular Diamonds:
Colorless diamonds, often referred to as “regular” diamonds, are a safe and classic choice for the centerpiece in a Halo setting. Opting for colorless diamonds allows you to focus more on the overall beauty of the setting rather than the uniqueness of the diamond itself. Keep in mind that the surrounding smaller diamonds will likely match the color of the centerpiece, so color variation may be limited. However, you can still play with different precious metals to enhance the overall design. - Yellow Diamonds:
Yellow diamonds are frequently seen in Halo settings. While Halo settings are not considered minimalistic, they offer room for creativity and extravagance. Incorporating a colored diamond like yellow can make the piece stand out even more. Whether you choose a light or intense yellow diamond, it will undoubtedly make a statement among other diamonds of regular color. If you opt for a darker yellow diamond, be mindful of striking the right balance, so the jewelry doesn’t appear overly yellow. Combining gold with an intense-colored yellow diamond can create a striking and unique look. - Champagne Diamonds:
Champagne diamonds, or even better, cognac diamonds, are a captivating choice for the Halo setting. These diamonds exhibit a beautiful blend of yellow and brown hues, making them unique and eye-catching. If you’re seeking a touch of originality, champagne or cognac diamonds can be a great option. They look fantastic in a Halo setting, whether it’s a ring or a pair of earrings. The distinctive appearance and allure of these colored diamonds add a captivating charm to the jewelry piece.
In conclusion, the Halo setting provides a stunning backdrop for various types of diamonds. Whether you prefer the classic elegance of colorless diamonds, the vibrancy of yellow diamonds, or the unique charm of champagne or cognac diamonds, the Halo setting allows you to create a remarkable piece of jewelry that reflects your personal style.
Best Pieces Of Jewelry For Halo Setting
Settings like the Halo setting can look stunning, but they may not always be suitable for every type of jewelry. Some pieces are designed to enhance the diamond and its setting, while others may not showcase their full potential. To help you make the most of your Halo setting, we have identified the top three jewelry pieces that will truly highlight its beauty:
- Rings:
Rings are the ideal and most common choice for the Halo setting. They provide a compact and focused design, allowing the diamond and setting to take center stage without unnecessary distractions. Halo settings in rings, especially with yellow or champagne diamonds, create captivating engagement rings or other statement pieces. - Necklaces:
Necklaces often feature larger diamonds, including those in Halo settings. While necklaces with Halo settings and colored diamonds can be breathtaking, they usually come at a higher price point. Investing in a necklace with a Halo setting will reward you with a prominent centerpiece surrounded by medium-sized diamonds, making it a striking and attention-grabbing piece of jewelry. - Earrings:
Earrings are another excellent choice to accentuate the beauty of a centerpiece in a Halo setting. Keep in mind that the size of the center diamond in earrings is typically smaller to accommodate two earrings and ensure affordability. However, this doesn’t diminish their visibility. When selecting earrings with a Halo setting, opt for centerpieces in yellow or other colored diamonds to add uniqueness and prominence. Additionally, consider pairing them with complementary jewelry pieces to maintain balance and avoid overpowering your overall look.
Remember, each jewelry piece has its own considerations when it comes to the Halo setting. Rings offer a compact and elegant display, necklaces showcase larger diamonds with a striking presence, and earrings provide a touch of glamour with smaller but still noticeable centerpieces. Choose the piece that best suits your style and desired level of prominence.
Halo Setting – The Price
When it comes to pricing in the world of diamonds and jewelry, it’s not as straightforward to determine the cost of a setting compared to diamonds, cuts, or individual pieces. However, we can provide some guidelines to help you understand the approximate investment required for a diamond in a Halo setting. Typically, the price range for a Halo setting is between $500 and $15,000, and several factors influence this range:
- The number of side diamonds surrounding the centerpiece plays a significant role. More diamonds, especially larger ones, will increase the overall cost.
- The shape of the centerpiece is also a factor. Halo settings often feature rectangular diamonds with rounded edges or round-cut diamonds. The complexity of embedding diamonds in the setting can vary depending on the cut of the centerpiece.
- The location and time of the year can affect pricing. Generally, diamond prices tend to rise during the summer, along with other diamond-related services such as repairs, polishing, grading, cutting, and embedding.
- In the United States, where diamond culture is extensive, different jewelers may offer a wide range of prices for the same job. Therefore, selecting a reputable and trustworthy professional for the embedding process can impact the price, either positively or negatively.
However, if you are considering purchasing a pre-made setting, such as a ring with a Halo setting, the price increase compared to other (less expensive) settings may be relatively minimal. You can expect to pay perhaps a maximum of $500 to $600 more for a Halo setting in a pre-made ring.
Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and prices can vary based on individual factors such as the specific diamond, craftsmanship, and market conditions. If you plan to undertake the embedding process independently, there is potential to spend several thousand dollars on a Halo setting.
Is Halo Setting Worth Considering?
Just like anything else, the Halo setting has its advantages and disadvantages. It’s important to consider these factors before forming your opinion on whether you like it or not. By understanding these aspects, you may find yourself appreciating the Halo setting more than you initially thought.
Let’s explore the strengths and weaknesses of the Halo setting:
Pros of the Halo Setting:
- Safety of the centerpiece: The security and stability of the main diamond in the setting are crucial. The Halo setting excels in this aspect as the jeweler has ample surface area to apply secure adhesive, ensuring the centerpiece remains in place.
- Originality & Authenticity: One of the appealing features of the Halo setting is the opportunity to customize the final look of the piece. Whether it’s a ring or another jewelry item, you can choose the color of the main diamond, side stones, precious metal, and their sizes. Adding a personal touch to jewelry intended for someone special is a rewarding experience.
- Affordability: While a Halo setting can reach prices up to $15,000, it is generally considered affordable. Most people opt for pre-made rings that already have the centerpiece, side stones, and precious metals chosen. In this scenario, the Halo setting is not considered expensive.
- Sparkle: Although the diamond in a Halo setting may not receive as much light from the underside, the presence of numerous smaller diamonds surrounding the centerpiece enhances its sparkle. The smaller diamonds reflect light and contribute to an overall sparkling effect, making the diamonds in this setting visually appealing in various lighting conditions.
Cons of the Halo Setting:
- Not safe enough for side stones: Side stones in a Halo setting, unless on a necklace, are relatively small and cannot be securely held in place with glue alone. There is a risk of them becoming loose or falling out, which may result in the loss of multiple small diamonds. Regularly checking with a jeweler to ensure the stones are secure can prevent this issue.
- Very common: The popularity of the Halo setting means that you are more likely to come across similar pieces of jewelry. Unless you personalize your Halo setting jewelry, it may not stand out as unique.
By considering these pros and cons, you can make a well-informed decision about whether the Halo setting aligns with your preferences and priorities.
Conclusion
Now that you have all the essential information about Halo settings, it’s time to reach a conclusion. In case you need to refresh your memory, you can scroll up to review the details. However, to save time, let’s summarize briefly:
The Halo setting, in its various forms, is a classic setting with a longstanding history. It is currently a highly popular choice, making it a timeless option.
This setting offers an extravagant look that can be suitable for both semi-casual and everyday wear. However, caution is advised. When not personalized, the Halo setting is quite common, and there is a risk of losing small diamonds while wearing it.
We hope that our provided facts have helped you form an opinion on Halo settings and have sparked your interest in the fascinating world of diamonds!
