Let’s make it official: halo engagement rings are back in the news. This vintage-style setting has long been a favorite in royal circles – think of the Princess of Wales and her famous sapphire and diamond engagement ring. Now it’s winning over a new generation, including actress and singer Dove Cameron, who revealed her asscher halo engagement ring in January 2026. Tempted to try the halo effect for yourself? Here’s everything you need to know about halo engagement rings.
What is a halo diamond engagement ring?
A halo diamond engagement ring is one that surrounds the central stone with a halo of smaller diamonds. It’s an enduringly popular style, and not just because it increases the overall brilliance of your ring.
Sophie Lomax, Head of Design, says: “Halo ring design is very versatile, too. Within the broad definition, you’ll find a variety of different options, from streamlined styles to intricate double halo rings with two rows of diamonds framing the hero stone.
“What I love about halo rings is the sheer amount of sparkle they give out. When you surround a diamond with more diamonds, you maximize the effect.”
Why choose a halo engagement ring
When you’re weighing up the pros and cons of halo engagement rings, there are some benefits that really stand out. Many couples choose a halo engagement ring because the halo of smaller stones creates the illusion of a higher carat weight, making the hero diamond at the center look bigger than it really is.
A halo engagement ring also serves a practical purpose. The smaller stones create a protective frame for your central gemstone, helping to guard against the knocks of everyday life. Then, of course, there’s the visual impact. Quite aside from all that sparkle, many halo rings have a vintage appeal that’s hard to resist.
“A halo engagement ring can be a smart and savvy choice,” adds Sophie. “By giving a little boost to your central diamond, it will really help you make the most of your budget.”
Yes, you can comfortably wear a halo diamond ring every day, depending on the design you choose. The smaller stones form a barrier around the hero diamond at the center, so it’s a great option for day-to-day wear. If you have a marquise or pear halo ring, for example, the halo will help to protect the sharp points from chipping or snagging.
Halo ring setting, designs & customization options
Looking for halo engagement ring design ideas that reflect your personal style? Whether you’re drawn to modern halo rings or prefer a vintage-style design, it’s the details that will determine the overall aesthetic. From the center stone to the diamond shape and precious metal, here’s what to consider.
Diamond shapes
A halo ring puts your central stone in the spotlight, emphasizing its silhouette with an outline of smaller diamonds. So the shape you choose is a key decision. A cushion halo engagement ring has a softened square shape with antique allure, while a more angular asscher or emerald halo engagement ring will put a modern twist on the look.
When it comes to the halo itself, you’ll generally find small round diamonds since these deliver the most amount of sparkle. However, baguette diamonds can also work well with the straight lines of an emerald or princess diamond, and small marquise diamonds can be used to create a
vintage starburst effect.
Center stones
You have a choice of center stone – and no, it doesn’t have to be a diamond. While you can’t beat a diamond surrounded by even more diamonds for brilliance and sparkle, you can also make a design statement with a colored gemstone at the center. Choose your birthstone for a personal touch, or pick the color that complements your own personal style. The rich, vivid tones of emerald, ruby and sapphire are enduringly popular, while black diamond creates a stunning contrast that feels new and modern. And if you love the look of a diamond at the center but are seeking a budget-conscious alternative, consider a moissanite halo ring.
Metal choices for halo engagement rings
A custom halo engagement ring is made to your specifications, so think about the ring band and diamond settings. As with any engagement ring, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference: the cool tones of white gold and platinum, which reflect light back into the diamonds, versus the warmth of yellow gold and rose gold that provide more of a contrast. You might also want to consider a mixed-metal design, which combines a gold shank with a platinum head to provide a secure, durable setting for your hero diamond and the smaller stones in the halo.
A hidden halo ring is a ring that comes with a surprise – a circle of small diamonds tucked away underneath the hero gemstone. As its name suggests, the halo is hidden from view when you look at the ring from above but it comes into its own when viewed from the side: in profile, it delivers sparkle from every angle. More important, perhaps, is the romance of it all. A hidden halo represents a precious secret that the two of you share as a couple, adding symbolism to your engagement ring.
Why settle for a single frame of diamonds when you can enjoy twice the sparkle? Quite simply, a double halo engagement ring surrounds the hero gemstone with two rows of smaller diamonds instead of one. Our Tilly ring is a beautiful example that can be customized with your choice of diamond shape and carat weight to create your own look. Or you might consider pairing a circle of diamonds with a circle of colored gemstones, as seen in this halo sapphire ring.
A halo engagement ring is a classic that’s always in fashion. While our recent engagement ring trends report revealed that halo engagement rings dipped slightly last year, their vintage aesthetic and incredible sparkle still put them firmly in our top five. And with Dove Cameron’s engagement ring leading the way, they’re back in the spotlight for 2026.
“Couples will always love halo engagement rings – they make the hero diamond look so good!” states Sophie. “While they never go out of style, they can certainly evolve over time. Right now, we’re seeing unexpected diamond shapes, hidden halos and colored gemstones updating the classic halo ring.”
How to clean your halo engagement ring
Halo engagement rings can trap dirt and dust between the smaller diamonds, so it’s important to clean your ring regularly to maintain its sparkle. Here’s how to keep your ring looking its best:
Soak your ring in warm water and mild soap
Clean the stones and prongs gently with a very soft toothbrush if necessary
Pat dry with a lint-free cloth or leave to air dry thoroughly
Take your ring to a jeweler for a professional clean every so often
Could a halo engagement ring be the right design to tell your love story? Explore our collection at Austen & Blake. You’ll find a range of halo ring designs, from classic round halo rings to vintage-inspired styles and more modern interpretations. Like all of our jewelry, each one can be customized with your choice of diamond shape, quality and precious metal. And if you need help choosing, our Jewelry Experts are on hand to answer all your questions.
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Let’s make it official: halo engagement rings are back in the news. This vintage-style setting has long been a favorite in royal circles – think of the Princess of Wales and her famous sapphire and diamond engagement ring. Now it’s winning over a new generation, including actress and singer Dove Cameron, who revealed her asscher halo engagement ring in January 2026. Tempted to try the halo effect for yourself? Here’s everything you need to know about halo engagement rings.
What is a halo diamond engagement ring?
A halo diamond engagement ring is one that surrounds the central stone with a halo of smaller diamonds. It’s an enduringly popular style, and not just because it increases the overall brilliance of your ring.
Sophie Lomax, Head of Design, says: “Halo ring design is very versatile, too. Within the broad definition, you’ll find a variety of different options, from streamlined styles to intricate double halo rings with two rows of diamonds framing the hero stone.
“What I love about halo rings is the sheer amount of sparkle they give out. When you surround a diamond with more diamonds, you maximize the effect.”
Why choose a halo engagement ring
When you’re weighing up the pros and cons of halo engagement rings, there are some benefits that really stand out. Many couples choose a halo engagement ring because the halo of smaller stones creates the illusion of a higher carat weight, making the hero diamond at the center look bigger than it really is.
A halo engagement ring also serves a practical purpose. The smaller stones create a protective frame for your central gemstone, helping to guard against the knocks of everyday life. Then, of course, there’s the visual impact. Quite aside from all that sparkle, many halo rings have a vintage appeal that’s hard to resist.
“A halo engagement ring can be a smart and savvy choice,” adds Sophie. “By giving a little boost to your central diamond, it will really help you make the most of your budget.”
Can you wear a halo diamond ring every day?
Yes, you can comfortably wear a halo diamond ring every day, depending on the design you choose. The smaller stones form a barrier around the hero diamond at the center, so it’s a great option for day-to-day wear. If you have a marquise or pear halo ring, for example, the halo will help to protect the sharp points from chipping or snagging.
Halo ring setting, designs & customization options
Looking for halo engagement ring design ideas that reflect your personal style? Whether you’re drawn to modern halo rings or prefer a vintage-style design, it’s the details that will determine the overall aesthetic. From the center stone to the diamond shape and precious metal, here’s what to consider.
Diamond shapes
A halo ring puts your central stone in the spotlight, emphasizing its silhouette with an outline of smaller diamonds. So the shape you choose is a key decision. A cushion halo engagement ring has a softened square shape with antique allure, while a more angular asscher or emerald halo engagement ring will put a modern twist on the look.
When it comes to the halo itself, you’ll generally find small round diamonds since these deliver the most amount of sparkle. However, baguette diamonds can also work well with the straight lines of an emerald or princess diamond, and small marquise diamonds can be used to create a vintage starburst effect.
Center stones
You have a choice of center stone – and no, it doesn’t have to be a diamond. While you can’t beat a diamond surrounded by even more diamonds for brilliance and sparkle, you can also make a design statement with a colored gemstone at the center. Choose your birthstone for a personal touch, or pick the color that complements your own personal style. The rich, vivid tones of emerald, ruby and sapphire are enduringly popular, while black diamond creates a stunning contrast that feels new and modern. And if you love the look of a diamond at the center but are seeking a budget-conscious alternative, consider a moissanite halo ring.
Metal choices for halo engagement rings
A custom halo engagement ring is made to your specifications, so think about the ring band and diamond settings. As with any engagement ring, it ultimately comes down to your personal preference: the cool tones of white gold and platinum, which reflect light back into the diamonds, versus the warmth of yellow gold and rose gold that provide more of a contrast. You might also want to consider a mixed-metal design, which combines a gold shank with a platinum head to provide a secure, durable setting for your hero diamond and the smaller stones in the halo.
What is a hidden halo ring?
A hidden halo ring is a ring that comes with a surprise – a circle of small diamonds tucked away underneath the hero gemstone. As its name suggests, the halo is hidden from view when you look at the ring from above but it comes into its own when viewed from the side: in profile, it delivers sparkle from every angle. More important, perhaps, is the romance of it all. A hidden halo represents a precious secret that the two of you share as a couple, adding symbolism to your engagement ring.
What is a double halo engagement ring?
Why settle for a single frame of diamonds when you can enjoy twice the sparkle? Quite simply, a double halo engagement ring surrounds the hero gemstone with two rows of smaller diamonds instead of one. Our Tilly ring is a beautiful example that can be customized with your choice of diamond shape and carat weight to create your own look. Or you might consider pairing a circle of diamonds with a circle of colored gemstones, as seen in this halo sapphire ring.
Are halo engagement rings still in style?
A halo engagement ring is a classic that’s always in fashion. While our recent engagement ring trends report revealed that halo engagement rings dipped slightly last year, their vintage aesthetic and incredible sparkle still put them firmly in our top five. And with Dove Cameron’s engagement ring leading the way, they’re back in the spotlight for 2026.
“Couples will always love halo engagement rings – they make the hero diamond look so good!” states Sophie. “While they never go out of style, they can certainly evolve over time. Right now, we’re seeing unexpected diamond shapes, hidden halos and colored gemstones updating the classic halo ring.”
How to clean your halo engagement ring
Halo engagement rings can trap dirt and dust between the smaller diamonds, so it’s important to clean your ring regularly to maintain its sparkle. Here’s how to keep your ring looking its best:
Visit our education center for more jewelry care tips.
Find your forever with a halo diamond ring
Could a halo engagement ring be the right design to tell your love story? Explore our collection at Austen & Blake. You’ll find a range of halo ring designs, from classic round halo rings to vintage-inspired styles and more modern interpretations. Like all of our jewelry, each one can be customized with your choice of diamond shape, quality and precious metal. And if you need help choosing, our Jewelry Experts are on hand to answer all your questions.
Shop halo engagement rings now.