Halo Rings: A Sparkling Circle of History and Style
Halo rings are among the most enduring and dazzling designs in the world of jewellery. Whether it’s a vintage diamond engagement ring or a colourful gemstone cocktail piece, the halo setting remains a timeless choice for those who love sparkle, symmetry, and style. This elegant design, characterised by a central gemstone surrounded by a circle (or halo) of smaller stones, has captivated jewellery lovers for centuries. In this blog, we explore the rich history of halo rings, their many variations, and what makes them a favourite in vintage and antique jewellery collections.
A Brief History of Halo Rings
The halo design dates back to the Georgian era (1714–1837), when jewellers first began surrounding central stones with tightly packed rose-cut diamonds to enhance the visual impact. These early halo rings were handcrafted in silver or gold and often featured foiled-back gems to reflect more light. The look was both romantic and regal, appealing to aristocracy and the rising bourgeoisie.
By the Victorian period (1837–1901), halo rings became more refined. Queen Victoria’s influence helped popularise coloured gemstone rings, and halo designs began featuring vibrant rubies, emeralds, and sapphires encircled by old mine-cut or rose-cut diamonds. The romantic symbolism of halos—as eternal love or celestial beauty—made them ideal for engagement rings and sentimental tokens.
The Edwardian era (1901–1915) saw a surge in platinum usage, allowing jewellers to create delicate filigree halos around old European-cut diamonds. Rings from this period are incredibly sought-after in vintage jewellery markets for their lace-like detail and enduring elegance.
Art Deco (1920s–1930s) brought bolder geometry and symmetry to halo rings. Octagonal and square-shaped halos became popular, reflecting the modernist aesthetic of the time. These rings often featured diamonds or coloured stones like aquamarine or onyx, cut into emerald or baguette shapes, set in platinum or white gold.
Mid-century styles (1940s–1970s) saw the halo ring evolve again, often becoming chunkier and more dramatic. Large central stones—especially colourful gemstones like amethyst or citrine—were surrounded by diamonds in a starburst or floral formation. Today, these Retro and cocktail halo rings are coveted for their bold glamour.
Types of Halo Rings
Halo rings have remained popular because they adapt beautifully to changing tastes. Here are a few of the most common and collectible halo styles:
1. Classic Diamond Halo
This is the quintessential engagement ring style. A round or cushion-cut diamond is surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds, enhancing brilliance and making the centre stone appear larger. Vintage versions often use old mine or European cuts for added charm.
2. Double Halo Rings
A double halo adds an extra ring of stones for increased sparkle and presence. These became especially popular in the early 21st century but can also be found in bold mid-century designs using both diamonds and coloured gems.
3. Coloured Gemstone Halo
In these rings, a central gemstone—like Sapphire, Emerald, Ruby, or Opal—is encircled by diamonds. This style dates back to Georgian and Victorian times and remains popular for vintage lovers. Princess Diana’s famous blue sapphire engagement ring (now worn by Kate Middleton) is a prime example.
4. Floral or Cluster Halos
Inspired by nature, floral halos often use a scalloped pattern or petal-like setting of stones around a central gem. These were especially beloved in Edwardian and Art Deco designs and are commonly seen in vintage cocktail rings.
5. Geometric Halos
These styles reflect Art Deco or Modernist design and feature square, rectangular, or octagonal halos around the central gem. They suit lovers of symmetry, structure, and early 20th-century jewellery.
6. Starburst or Radiant Halos
Typical of Retro jewellery, these dramatic settings feature rays of gold or gemstone “bursts” around the centre stone, evoking glamour and boldness. They are highly collectible and often one-of-a-kind.
Why Choose a Vintage Halo Ring?
Vintage halo rings offer a unique blend of history, artistry, and value. Each period’s interpretation of the halo reflects the era’s aesthetics—from delicate Edwardian filigree to bold Retro flamboyance. Unlike modern mass-produced rings, vintage pieces often feature hand-cut stones, intricate detailing, and rare gemstone combinations.
Additionally, many vintage halo rings are made with now-uncommon gemstone cuts, such as rose-cut or old mine-cut diamonds, which sparkle differently from their modern counterparts. Their charm lies not only in their beauty but also in their story—each ring a sparkling relic of its time.
Whether you’re drawn to romantic Victorian ruby halos, bold 1970s amethyst clusters, or sleek Art Deco geometry, there’s a vintage halo ring to suit every personality and style.