Hidden halos have become a popular detail in modern engagement ring design, offering a subtle way to enhance a diamond without changing its overall look. Unlike traditional halos that surround the centre stone from above, a hidden halo sits beneath it and is often not visible at first glance.
This discreet feature adds extra sparkle and visual interest, particularly when the ring is viewed from the side. It allows the centre diamond to remain the clear focal point, while rewarding closer inspection with an additional design detail that feels intentional rather than decorative.
In this guide, we explore what hidden halos are, why they have become popular, and the key considerations to keep in mind when deciding whether this style is right for your engagement ring.
What Is A Hidden Halo Ring?
A hidden halo engagement ring features a row of small, usually round brilliant diamonds set into the gallery rail. The gallery is the part of the ring that supports the centre stone, strengthens the claws, and connects the setting to the band.
From above, the centre diamond appears clean and uninterrupted. From the side, the hidden halo creates a fine line of sparkle beneath the stone, adding interest without altering the proportions of the ring. While a hidden halo can be incorporated into a number of styles of engagement rings, it is most commonly seen in solitaire designs.
Are Hidden Halo Engagement Rings Popular?
Hidden halo engagement rings have grown in popularity since 2020 and are now a sought-after style. While the traditional halo has long been a staple in engagement ring design, the hidden halo provides a more subtle alternative.
Its rise has been supported by social media and high-profile engagement rings, bringing this discreet yet distinctive feature to wider attention. The accent diamonds used in a hidden halo are small, meaning it can usually be added without a significant increase in cost.
Can You Add A Hidden Halo To An Existing Ring?
In theory, it is possible to add a hidden halo to an existing ring, but this depends on the original setting and how it was constructed. The most important factor is whether the gallery rail is wide and deep enough to set the diamonds. Without sufficient depth, the smaller stones cannot be properly secured.
For most rings, a hidden halo is planned during the initial engagement ring design, rather than added later on when exploring Hatton Garden wedding rings. Speaking to your jeweller will help you determine if a hidden halo can be added to your existing engagement ring, ensuring the ring is not damaged in the process.
Is A Hidden Halo Engagement Ring Right For Me?
Before deciding whether to include a hidden halo, it is important to consider both the advantages and potential drawbacks of this design. We have already covered many reasons why hidden halos are appealing, from the subtle sparkle they add to the way they enhance the centre stone. However, it is equally important to understand the factors that may make them less suitable or practical for some couples.
Drawbacks
Hidden halos are still a relatively recent trend, and some people worry that what looks stylish now may appear dated in the years ahead. Because they are less traditional than standard settings, there is a chance that tastes could change, making the style feel out of place further down the line.
Practical considerations are also important. Hidden halos can make future adjustments, such as resizing the ring, more complex. The small diamonds set into the gallery require careful handling to avoid damage, and during sizing they may become loose and require tightening. For this reason, it is essential to work with a skilled Hatton Garden jeweller.
Summary
Hidden halos add an extra layer of sparkle and interest to an engagement ring without changing the overall aesthetic of the piece, which helps explain their rise in popularity in recent years. Whether they are right for you or your partner when exploring Hatton Garden engagement rings depends largely on personal taste and the vision you have for the ring, but they are certainly worth considering.
Hidden halos are not limited to diamond centre stones; it is also possible to feature a range of coloured precious gemstones as the centre piece, with a diamond hidden halo beneath to create a subtle two-tone effect.
