Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most exciting parts of your love story — but let’s be honest, it can also feel a little overwhelming. One of the first big decisions? Picking between two timeless styles: the halo and the solitaire.
Both are beautiful. Both are meaningful. But they each shine in their own way.
Whether you're dreaming of a simple, elegant ring or something with a little extra sparkle, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know about halo vs. solitaire diamond rings.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about these two stunning ring styles so you can pick the one that feels just right for you.
What Is a Solitaire Engagement Ring?
Let’s start with a classic.
A solitaire ring features one single diamond in the center. That’s it. No extra diamonds or fancy details — just one beautiful stone that takes center stage.
Why couples love solitaire rings:
- Classic, timeless style
- Easy to match with any wedding band
- The diamond really stands out
- Works with almost any diamond shape
Solitaire rings are all about simple elegance. One stone. One love. A forever kind of vibe.
Read This : How to Set a Budget for an Engagement Ring
What Is a Halo Engagement Ring?
A halo ring has one center diamond surrounded by a circle (or halo) of tiny diamonds. This design makes the center stone look bigger and adds lots of sparkle.
Why couples love halo rings:
- So much extra sparkle!
- Makes the center diamond look larger
- Feels glamorous without a huge price tag
- Works well with vintage or modern styles
Think of it as a sparkly frame around your love — soft, glowing, and full of magic.
Halo vs. Solitaire Diamond Ring: What’s the Difference?
Here’s a quick look at how the two styles compare:
Solitaire Engagement Ring Settings
A solitaire setting is all about simplicity and letting the center diamond shine on its own. Here are the most popular solitaire settings:
1. Prong Setting (Classic)
- The most common solitaire setting
- Usually 4 or 6 prongs holding the diamond
- Maximizes light exposure for more sparkle
2. Bezel Setting
- A sleek metal rim wraps around the diamond
- Offers a modern look and extra protection
- Great for active lifestyles
3. Tension Setting
- The diamond appears "suspended" between the band
- Modern, bold, and artistic
- Creates a floating effect
4. Cathedral Setting
- The band arches up to hold the diamond
- Elegant and traditional
- Elevates the stone for a taller profile
5. Knife Edge Setting
- The band has a sharp, raised ridge
- Enhances the center stone’s brilliance
- Adds visual interest while staying minimal
Halo Engagement Ring Settings
A halo setting surrounds the center stone with a circle of smaller diamonds, adding sparkle and making the center look larger. Here are the main halo styles:
1. Classic Halo
- A single row of small diamonds around the center stone
- Boosts sparkle and enhances size
2. Double Halo
- Two rows of diamonds around the center
- Extra glamorous and perfect for bold looks
3. Hidden Halo
- A small halo sits beneath the center stone, only visible from the side
- Adds surprise sparkle without overpowering
4. Vintage Halo
- Inspired by antique styles (milgrain, filigree, etc.)
- Romantic and timeless, often in rose or yellow gold
5. Geometric Halo
- Halo stones are arranged in shapes like hexagons or petals
- Unique and great for custom designs
Recommended : Hidden Halo Engagement Rings: Why They're Trending
When to Choose a Solitaire Diamond Ring
Go for a solitaire if you love:
- Simplicity – You want a clean, elegant look.
- Modern style – Perfect with minimal outfits and sleek bands.
- Timeless beauty – This style never goes out of fashion.
- Letting your diamond shine – The spotlight is all on your stone.
Best diamond shapes for solitaire rings:
- Round Brilliant
- Oval
- Emerald Cut
- Pear
- Princess
SMC Pick: Minimalist Oval Solitaire in Yellow Gold — effortlessly romantic and totally timeless.
When to Choose a Halo Diamond Ring
A halo ring might be your perfect match if you love:
- All the sparkle – You want that wow-factor shine.
- Romantic, vintage vibes – It feels like a love letter from another era.
- Looking luxe without spending big – A smaller center diamond, with a bigger impact.
- Making a statement – You want a ring that turns heads.
Best diamond shapes for halo rings:
- Round Brilliant
- Cushion
- Oval
- Pear
- Marquise
SMC Pick: Lab-Grown Cushion Halo in White Gold — elegant, bold, and beautifully ethical.
Budget Tips: Halo vs. Solitaire Diamond Ring
We all want something beautiful and budget-friendly, right? Here’s how both styles stack up:
Solitaire Rings:
- Most of your cost goes into the center diamond.
- Less detailing means lower setting costs.
- If you want a bigger diamond, your price goes up.
Halo Rings:
- You can use a smaller center diamond but still get a “big ring” look.
- More sparkle for less, especially if you choose lab-grown diamonds.
- Just remember: more diamonds = more cleaning.
Budget hack: Go with a lab-grown halo ring — lots of shine, lower price, and ethically made. Win-win.
Must Read: Diamond Engagement Ring Trends in Canada
Personality Check: What Style Feels More Like You?
Your ring says a lot about your style (and maybe even your love story). Here’s what each style might say:
Solitaire Wearers:
- Love clean, simple designs
- Appreciate timeless beauty
- Prefer subtle over flashy
- Feel grounded in tradition
Halo Lovers:
- Enjoy sparkle and glamour
- Lean into vintage or detailed looks
- Aren’t afraid to shine bright
- Want a ring that’s as bold as their love
Not sure? Try on both styles — sometimes, the decision becomes clear when you see them on your hand.
Can You Mix Both Styles? Absolutely!
Can’t decide between the two? You don’t have to! Some of our favorite custom designs blend elements of both:
- A hidden halo on a solitaire-style ring
- A halo with a super-thin, minimalist band
- A solitaire with side stones or sparkly accents
At SMC Diamonds, we love creating rings that are as unique as your love. Whether you want classic, modern, or a bit of both, we’ll help you design your dream ring.
Final Thoughts: Halo vs. Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring
At the end of the day, this is your ring. Your story. Your forever.
A solitaire ring offers timeless simplicity and elegance. A halo ring delivers sparkle, glamour, and a big visual impact. Both are beautiful, and the right one is the one that feels most like you.
So, which ring wins your heart?
