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The Beauty Behind a Cathedral Setting With Hidden Halo
Written by Amelia Hart
Some engagement rings wow you from the start, while others take on an extra special appeal the longer you study them.
The cathedral engagement ring with a hidden halo is one such engagement ring. When viewed from above, it looks classic, elegant, and timeless. The focus of the jewelry piece is the center diamond. However, upon further consideration of the side view, you will discover the secret of the ring: metal arches under which there is an additional layer of diamonds.
No wonder this design became popular among the most sought-after engagement ring styles nowadays. This type of jewelry is characterized by added shine and additional details that do not overshadow the beauty of the central diamond.
For those customers who prefer traditional diamond engagement rings with some unique twists, the described engagement ring might be a perfect choice.
Table of Content
- What is the Cathedral Setting with a Hidden Halo?
- Why Has This Combination Become So Popular?
- Does a Hidden Halo Make the Center Diamond Look Bigger?
- Diamond Shapes That Work Well In This Setting
- Cathedral Hidden Halo vs. Classic Halo vs. Solitaire
- What Can You Expect to Spend?
- Is This Setting Worth It?
- FAQs
What is the Cathedral Setting with a Hidden Halo?
The design is created using two different styles of settings.
Firstly, the cathedral setting involves the use of arches made out of metal that come up from the ring and hold the center diamond in place. This creates a raised effect and makes for a very pretty profile of the ring. Moreover, it also adds focus upwards to make the central diamond more noticeable.
Secondly, the hidden halo includes a row of diamonds situated below the center diamond and not surrounding it like halo settings normally do.
Unlike typical halos, this design feature is not visible at the top of the ring but comes into view once the ring is turned sideways.
SHOP Teagan Solitaire Diamond Ring
Why Has This Combination Become So Popular?
There is one single reason why this ring design is so popular: perfect balance.
While some people may simply prefer a solitaire ring, others might not wish for a ring full of diamonds, too.
The cathedral setting, combined with a hidden halo design, is a great balance point here.
With it, you have:
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Additional sparkles that do not overshadow your main diamond
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An amazing side view
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More details compared to a simple solitaire
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Classic design that will never look out of style
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Compatibility with various diamond cuts
What makes this ring design particularly interesting is its ability to surprise its owner. The hidden halo design allows you to create an additional layer of surprises when you take a look at the ring from a different angle.
Does a Hidden Halo Make the Center Diamond Look Bigger?
And, most likely, this is among the first inquiries that anyone buying the jewel raises. However, there can be no doubt that the response will definitely be positive in a bit different sense compared to a conventional halo.
Unlike in the case of a conventional halo, where diamonds surround the center diamond, hence making the diamond appear bigger from above, a secret halo does not use this principle to make the diamond appear bigger.
In the hidden halo setting, diamonds are placed beneath the centre stone, allowing the light to reflect upwards, giving the centre diamond a more defined edge, creating an illusion of a bigger and brighter centre diamond.
SHOP Predesigned Engagement Rings
Diamond Shapes That Work Well In This Setting
The reason why this kind of setting is still popular among many people is because of how versatile it is. Any type of diamond would suit this setting, but there are those that fit very nicely in particular.
Oval Diamonds
An oval diamond works perfectly in a cathedral hidden halo setting. With its elongated shape, this is already creating an illusion of having a larger diamond. The hidden halo setting complements it by adding even more sparkles.
This ring style is definitely one that will continue to be a favorite among many.
Diamonds with Cushion Cut
Diamonds with a cushion cut will add elegance to the piece. With round corners and cathedral arches, one can create an elegant and balanced combination that will suit romantic people.
If you prefer vintage and traditional jewelry but do not like the old-fashioned style, this option may be perfect for you.
Diamonds with Round Brilliant Cut
If round diamonds have been popular for a long time, there is a good reason for that. Brilliant diamonds are known for their outstanding shine, while a hidden halo adds extra light performance without affecting the centre stone.
Emerald-Cut Diamonds
Emerald cut diamonds provide something that is entirely new. They are not popular with a dazzling shine that comes with the round cuts. They have a simple elegance associated with their unique features and designs.
The secret halo provides some degree of sparkle that complements the design, but still maintains its simplicity.
Marquise and Pear Diamonds, and Radiant Diamonds
Consumers seeking an unconventional choice usually favor elongated diamond cuts such as marquise cuts and pear cuts.
The cathedral set brings out its unique profile, while the secret halo brings some sparkle under the cut without altering the whole look.
Cathedral Hidden Halo vs. Classic Halo vs. Solitaire
When choosing between the three options, it is important to have an idea of the style that you want to attain through your purchase.
Pick a Solitaire if:
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Simplicity is your cup of tea
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You need everything to focus on the central stone
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Minimalist design interests you
Select a Classic Halo if:
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The maximum amount of sparkle appeals to you
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You would like the center stone to seem bigger
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You fancy some detailin
Select a Cathedral Hidden Halo if:
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You want more sparkle, but don't like the classic halo style
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You like elegant details from the side profile
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You go for subtle luxury rather than flashy glamour
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You want an elegant style with a contemporary touch
Most people opt for the cathedral hidden halo due to its superior features over the others.
SHOP Eternia Criss Cross Side Halo Ring
What Can You Expect to Spend?
There are several factors that affect the price of a cathedral hidden halo engagement ring.
The following factors regarding the center diamond will significantly affect the price of your engagement ring:
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Carat weight
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Color of the diamond
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Clarity grades of the diamond
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Cut quality of the diamond
Your choice of the metal type is another factor. Some of the metals that can be used for your cathedral-hidden halo engagement ring are
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Yellow gold
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White gold
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Rose gold
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Platinu
Most people now like to use this style of setting with lab-created diamonds, as it allows them to get bigger stones without spending much money.
This setting requires more accent diamonds and better craftsmanship than a solitaire setting, which means that it will cost more than a solitaire but will most probably be cheaper than multi-row halo styles.
Is This Setting Worth It?
There have been many trends in engagement rings. The cathedral setting with a hidden halo differs from them because it does not need a trend to survive.
The cathedral setting itself has been loved by generations. The hidden halo just adds a bit of modernity to a classic design. Here you will have a ring that looks elegant from above, stunning from the sides, and is interesting enough for you to always find something new about it.
It is not difficult to understand why this setting is so beloved by those who are looking for something between a solitaire and a classic halo.
FAQs
Can a cathedral hidden halo engagement ring be worn daily?
Yes, because of the great support a cathedral setting offers to the center stone, it can easily be worn on a daily basis when well-made.
Are hidden halos suitable for only large diamonds?
Absolutely not. They will enhance both large and small center stones due to their sparkling nature.
What type of metal suits cathedral hidden halo rings?
White gold and platinum make the diamonds sparkle, while yellow gold is best for creating contrast.
Can I opt for a lab-created diamond cathedral hidden halo engagement ring?
Sure, people tend to prefer lab-created diamonds, as you may get a better quality diamond or a bigger size at a budget price.
Will the hidden halo become outdated?
Although all trends tend to come and go, the hidden halo trend has been very consistent, as it adds a little detail to the ring design rather than making it look like a trend itself.
