Deciding between a Solitaire and a Halo Diamond Engagement Ring?
September 12, 20254 min read
How do you choose the right diamond ring; the one that actually feels like her?
If you're deciding between a solitaire and a halo engagement ring,you’re not alone —it's one of the mostcommon questions we get from couples. One is bold and sparkly. The other is quiet and iconic. And the truth is, they both have something timeless to offer.
In this guide,we’ll walk you through what makes each one special — with side-by-side comparisons, visual tricks, and style insights to help you choose with confidence.
What is a Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring?
In short: A solitaire ring features one diamond and nothing else — just clean, timeless focus.It’s elegant, simple, and all about the stone.
We often recommend this setting for someone who values restraint. Itdoesn’t scream for attention — it whispers it. And for the right person, that quiet beauty says everything.
What Are the Benefits of a Solitaire Engagement Ring?
The key takeaway?
A solitaire ring is timeless, personal, and practical — the kind of piece that quietly holds meaning for decades.
It never goes out of style
The clean silhouette of a solitaire has been beloved for generations.There’s a reasonit's the go-to for traditionalists and minimalists alike — it lets the stone (and the story behind it) shine.
It's endlessly pairable
A solitaire is like the white tee of finejewelry — it goes with everything. Stack it, contrast it, or leave it solo. Its simplicity makes it a match for any wedding band or personal style.
It lets your diamond speak for itself
No distractions. No frills. Just your chosen stone, front andcenter — especially important ifyou’ve selected a unique shape, heirloom gem, or something with personal symbolism.
Low-fuss, high-impact
Fewer prongs, fewer accents, fewer chances of snagging — but no less brilliance. A solitaire is ideal for someone who lives fully but still wants beauty that lasts.
What Is a Halo Diamond Engagement Ring?
Think of it this way: A halo ring surrounds yourcenter stone with a frame of sparkle —it’s loud in the best way, and unapologetically bold.
If solitaire rings whisper, halo rings sparkle in every direction.They’re ideal for someone whodoesn’t mind a little extra shine — or a lot. The visual impact is big, brilliant, and full of detail. We often see this chosen by brides who love vintage touches, decorative details, or want thecenter stone to feel more elevated.
Why Choose a Halo Setting?
If you want your ring to shine from every angle, a halo delivers in every way.It’s a design made forlight and for the kind of person whodoesn’t mind being noticed.
Here’s why so many people fall in love with it:
Maximum Sparkle
A halo wraps yourcenter stone in a circle of small diamonds that catch and reflect light — not just from the top, but from every movement of the hand.It’s one of the most luminous settings you can choose, and it shows.
Looks Bigger, Feels Bolder
Don’t want to splurge on a huge diamond? A halo can create the illusion of a largercenter stone by extending the frame with added brilliance.It’s a smart, striking design choice — especially for those who want impact without doubling the budget.
Intricate, With a Purpose
Halo rings are known for their delicate details — from pave diamonds to vintage-inspiredmilgrain edges. Butit’s not just about decoration. Every element adds depth, dimension, and a feeling of intentional artistry.
Custom by Nature
This setting is a dream for customization. From oval to cushion halos, double layers to hidden accents — you can shape the design to match your partner’s personality or evenhonor a meaningful aesthetic. The beauty is in the options.
Not sure which one is right for you?
Here’s how to narrow it down — based on personality, priorities, and the kind of love story you want your ring to tell.
1. Style That Feels Like “You”
Solitaire: If you or your partner love the simplicity and timeless elegance of a classic gold band, and jewelry that whispers rather than shouts — a solitaire is a natural fit. It's a style that says more with less.
Halo: If you lean bold, love sparkle, or enjoy vintage touches and intricate details, a halo might be your perfect match. It’s romantic, radiant, and designed to be noticed.
2. How You Want to Spend
Solitaire: Most of your investment goes toward a single standout diamond. This is ideal if you’ve found that one stone and want it to shine solo.
Halo: You can achieve a more impactful visual look without needing to splurge on a large center stone. The surrounding halo adds presence — and sparkle — without inflating the price tag.
3. Maintenance & Everyday Wear
Solitaire: Simple, low-fuss, and easy to clean. Fewer prongs and no extra diamonds means less worry about snags or repairs.
Halo: More sparkle comes with more parts — meaning regular check-ups are a good idea. If you’re active with your hands, keep in mind the ring’s intricate details may need extra care.
4. Diamond Size & Shape Goals
Solitaire: Best if you’ve chosen a larger or uniquely cut center stone and want that stone to be the star.
Halo: Great for boosting perceived size or enhancing a more modest diamond. The halo setting can also complement fancy shapes beautifully — from ovals to pears to cushions.
Conclusion: Which Ring Style Is Truly Yours?
In the end,it’s not just about sparkle —it’s about choosing a ring that reflects your partner’s heart, your shared story, and the kind of loveyou’re building together. Whetheryou're drawn to the quiet elegance of a solitaire or the radiant brilliance of a halo, the right ring will simply feel right. At North and SouthJewelry,we’ve helped hundreds of couples find the design that makes them say, “That’s the one.” Explore our curatedselection of diamond engagement rings — and if you ever need a second opinion,we’re here to guide you.
FAQ
Q Which is more timeless — solitaire or halo?
Solitaire rings are known for their classic, enduring simplicity.
Q Do halo rings make diamonds look bigger?
Yes — the surrounding halo can visually amplify the center stone’s size.
Q Which is more budget-friendly?
Solitaire rings usually cost less due to simpler settings and fewer diamonds.
My now fiance and I were exploring ring options. It was pur first or second day, and we ran across North and South Jewelry. We spoke with Justin, who was extremely helpful in giving the details and processes that they provide for the customized ring development. After a couple of months of searching, I knew they would be the right fit. I sent them a sample of the ring I was looking for with the extra customizations, and they were able to get the ring for me in time to propose to my lady in Japan. She fell in love with the ring, and I will absolutely be recommending any custom jewelry options to North and South Jewelry. It was perfect, thank you so much!