Aug 25, 2025

Difference Between A Halo And A Hidden Halo?

When shopping for an engagement ring or designing a custom piece, one of the most elegant ways to elevate your center diamond is with a halo. But not all halos are the same.

The classic halo and the hidden halo may sound similar, but they create very different visual effects — each with its own personality, craftsmanship details, and styling opportunities. This guide will help you distinguish between the two and choose the one that best reflects your style and story.

What Is a Halo Setting?

The traditional halo setting encircles the center stone with a row (or rows) of small pavé diamonds. This border sits flush with the top of the center stone, creating a bold, sparkling frame.

Why Choose a Classic Halo?

Visual impact: A halo magnifies the size of your center stone — making even a 1.00 ct diamond appear significantly larger.
Brilliance: All those surrounding diamonds reflect and refract light, adding fire and flash from every angle.
Design flexibility: Works beautifully with round, cushion, oval, pear, marquise, and even square cuts.
Timeless style: It’s been a favorite for decades — from vintage Art Deco rings to modern double halos.

At J.H. Young & Sons, we love pairing halo settings with fancy-shaped diamonds or colored gems to create unforgettable heirloom-quality designs.

What Is a Hidden Halo?

A hidden halo places the circle of diamonds underneath the center stone, rather than around its visible perimeter. It’s not obvious from the top — it reveals itself when viewed from the side.

Why Choose a Hidden Halo?

Subtle luxury: From above, you see a clean solitaire-like silhouette. But from the side? A sparkle surprise.
Enhanced brilliance: Adds light play beneath the stone, especially for raised prong settings.
Modern aesthetic: Ideal for minimalists who want elegance without too much ornamentation.
Perfect for stacking: Hidden halos often allow for flush wedding bands without custom contouring.

This setting is popular with couples who want their ring to feel personal, sleek, and rich in hidden detail.

Halo vs. Hidden Halo: A Side-by-Side Comparison

Styling Ideas: Jewelry That Highlights the Setting

At J.H. Young & Sons, we offer halo and hidden halo options across a range of jewelry types — not just engagement rings.

Halo-Inspired Jewelry:

Diamond stud earrings with double halo jackets
Sapphire pendants with vintage milgrain halos
Cocktail rings with layered diamond halos for a bold look

Hidden Halo-Inspired Pieces:

Engagement rings with surprise diamond galleries
Custom solitaires with diamond-accented prongs or bridge
Side-profile detailing on anniversary rings

Tip: A hidden halo adds emotional significance to a solitaire-style ring — it's like wearing a private sparkle just for you.

Can I Customize a Halo or Hidden Halo?

Yes — and we recommend it. Our custom design team can tailor the halo (or hidden halo) to fit your center stone, metal preference, and desired aesthetic.

Popular Custom Options:

Rose gold hidden halo with white gold prongs
Vintage-inspired milgrain halo with sapphires
Hidden halo with personalized engraving on the bridge

Want to use a family diamond? We can design a custom hidden or classic halo setting to showcase it beautifully while protecting it securely.

Which Should You Choose?

Ultimately, the right setting comes down to your personal style — and how you want your ring to feel and function.

Choose a classic halo if you:

Want maximum brilliance and visual size
Love romantic, detailed, or vintage aesthetics
Prefer a high-sparkle look that makes a statement

Choose a hidden halo if you:

Want a clean, modern face-up view with side sparkle
Prefer a minimalist look with a touch of detail
Like the idea of a design surprise visible only to you

Both are elegant. Both are timeless. And both can be tailored to your vision at J.H. Young & Sons.

Visit J.H. Young & Sons

Whether you’re dreaming of a halo engagement ring or looking to design a custom hidden halo solitaire, we’re here to help. Our expert jewelers will walk you through every detail, explain the differences in person, and help you select the piece that reflects your story.

126 Lynden Rd, Brantford, ON N3R 8A3

+1 (519) 752-2330

Monday – Saturday: 10am – 5pm

Schedule a design consultation today and discover the perfect setting for your forever piece.