Choosing the Perfect Gemstone for Your Halo Ring

When selecting an engagement ring that’s both striking and symbolic, the halo setting stands out for its breathtaking beauty and its ability to enhance the central gemstone. 

At Simon West Fine Jewellery, we understand the importance of every detail in creating a ring that reflects your personal story and style. 

If you are contemplating a halo engagement ring, selecting the right central gemstone is crucial. 

This notebook article will help you navigate the factors of color, hardness, and brilliance to ensure you choose the best gemstone for your halo ring setting.

Understanding the Halo Ring Setting

Before we discuss gemstone selection, let’s clarify what a halo ring setting entails. 

Characterized by a circle of smaller diamonds or halo gems that frame the central stone, the halo setting not only increases the ring’s overall sparkle but also makes the central gemstone appear larger. 

This setting is versatile and can enhance any type of gemstone, making it a popular choice for engagement rings.

Considerations for Selecting Your Gemstone

Colour: Finding Your Hue

The colour of the gemstone is often the first attribute that captures attention. 

When choosing a halo gemstone, think about a colour that resonates with you. 

For a traditional look, nothing beats the classic and versatile white diamond. 

However, for those seeking a more personalised touch, coloured gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds offer a vibrant alternative that can set your halo engagement ring apart.

When selecting a coloured gemstone, consider the contrast between the halo and the central stone. A deep blue sapphire surrounded by brilliant white diamonds creates a stunning visual impact, making the centre stone pop.

Hardness: Durability Matters

The Mohs scale of mineral hardness is a crucial tool when selecting a gemstone for an engagement ring that you will wear every day. 

Diamonds, with a Mohs hardness of 10, are the most durable choice.

However, other gemstones like sapphires and rubies, both scoring 9 on the scale, are also excellent choices.

For those attracted to softer gemstones like opals (Mohs 5.5-6.5) or pearls (Mohs 2.5), extra care should be taken. 

These stones are more susceptible to being damaged and are not typically recommended for rings intended for everyday wear unless they are set protectively and cared for meticulously.

Brilliance: The Play of Light

The brilliance of a gemstone is its ability to reflect light, and it plays a significant role in the gemstone’s visual appeal in a halo setting. 

Diamonds are renowned for their unmatched brilliance, but other gemstones can also dazzle. 

Consider how the gemstone interacts with light: does it have a fiery brilliance (dispersion), or does it have a unique luster or sheen?

For halo settings, a gemstone with high brilliance can enhance the overall sparkle of the ring, as the halo diamonds reflect light back onto the central stone, amplifying its glow.

Making Your Choice

Once you have a clear idea of the colour, hardness, and brilliance that suit your needs, it’s time to visit a reputable jeweller. 

At Simon West Fine Jewellery, we offer a personalised consultation service to help you select the perfect gemstone for your halo ring. 

Here, you can view various gemstones in different lighting conditions and settings, ask questions, and see firsthand how each gemstone could look in your intended halo ring setting.

Care and Maintenance

Regardless of the gemstone you choose, proper care and maintenance are key to keeping your halo engagement ring looking its best.

Regular cleaning, annual check-ups with a jeweller, and safe storage will protect your beautiful ring

Choosing the perfect gemstone for your halo engagement ring is a journey that combines personal tastes with practical considerations. 

Enquire with Simon West Jewellery about your halo ring ideas and we can help you to create a unique & everlasting symbol of your unique love story.