Halo Settings: Wedding Band Style Guide

A halo engagement ring is a popular choice for brides-to-be, with the likes of Millie Bobby Brown, Cardi B, and Princess Kate all sporting this style. The central gemstone is surrounded by smaller accent diamonds or stones, creating a halo effect. This unique setting enhances the centre stone, making it appear larger and brighter. When it comes to choosing a wedding band to complement this style of engagement ring, there are several options to consider.

Firstly, contoured or curved wedding bands are a popular choice as they mirror the curve of the engagement ring, allowing the two rings to sit flush and snug. This style works well with most halo engagement rings, especially those with elongated diamond shapes.

Secondly, notched wedding bands feature a sharp V-shape or a more precise curve that fits like a puzzle piece against the halo ring. This style is ideal for halo rings with multiple metal supports or square/rectangular centre stones.

Thirdly, straight wedding bands are a classic and timeless option. However, they may not fit snugly with all halo engagement rings, especially those with metal supports on more than two sides. In such cases, a slip under wedding band can be customised to give the illusion of a full straight ring without any clunkiness.

Lastly, guarded or jacket wedding bands consist of two connected rings that the engagement ring sits between, creating a dynamic three-band stack. This style adds even more sparkle to the halo ring and is perfect for those who want a bolder look.

When choosing a wedding band for a halo engagement ring, it's important to consider the scale, colour, comfort, and personal style. The wedding band should complement the halo setting without overpowering it, and it should feel comfortable to wear every day.

Curved or contoured wedding bands

The benefits of wearing a curved wedding band include enhancing the appearance of an engagement ring, providing a comfortable fit, and preventing the rings from rubbing against each other. When choosing a curved wedding band, it is best to try on different styles with your engagement ring to find the perfect fit. Curved wedding bands can also be worn alone as a standalone piece of jewellery.

When pairing a curved band with an engagement ring, there are a few things to consider:

• Setting: If your engagement ring has a centre stone, you may want your wedding ring to fit under or around it. If there is not enough space under the centre stone, a standard wedding band might not fit, leaving a gap between the two rings. In this case, a curved band can provide a more seamless and comfortable fit.
• Width: You may want your engagement and wedding rings to have the same or different widths.
• Material: You may want your wedding ring to match or complement the metal and karat of your engagement ring.

Curved wedding bands are a beautiful and contemporary choice, with settings including bead, pave, micro-pave, channel, and prong. Prong settings are the most traditional-looking, while channel and pave settings achieve a flat look by setting the stones deep into the metal. Curved bands also work well with three-stone halo rings, adding space for the additional diamonds.

Straight wedding bands

Straight bands are best suited to halo rings that are suspended with two metal supports. The halo and centre diamond are lifted off the finger, allowing a straight band to slide underneath and sit flush with the engagement ring. Straight bands are also typically paired with rings that sit higher off the finger, like cathedral or solitaire settings.

The benefit of a straight wedding band is its versatility. The simple design complements any engagement ring style without overpowering it. The focus remains on the halo setting, and the band enhances the natural beauty of the ring. Straight bands are also highly customisable, with options to vary the width, metal type, engravings and added gemstones.

When choosing a straight wedding band, it is important to consider the scale of the rings. The wedding band should not detract from the engagement ring. It is also important to ensure the rings fit together seamlessly, with no friction or rubbing that could cause wear and tear over time.

Diamond-accented wedding rings

First, decide on the type of band you prefer. Plain metal bands are a classic choice that allows the halo ring to take centre stage. If you want to add more sparkle, consider a diamond-accented band with a petite eternity or half-pave design. You can also choose from various band shapes, such as curved, notched, or straight, to complement the halo setting and ensure the rings sit flush together. The metal colour is another important consideration, and mixing metals, such as yellow gold with white gold or platinum, is a chic and modern approach.

Additionally, the diamond shape and carat weight of your halo ring should be taken into account when selecting a wedding band. For example, a round brilliant halo engagement ring can be paired with a diamond-accented wedding band, while a princess cut halo ring may be better suited to a band with a flatter edge. Oval halo rings, which enhance the vintage look, can be paired with a bold diamond-forward wedding band.

When pairing a diamond-accented wedding band with a halo engagement ring, it's crucial to prioritise a design that won't rub against the halo setting. This will ensure a comfortable fit and help to prevent wear and tear. Custom-designed wedding bands are also an option if you want a ring that perfectly fits your halo engagement ring and complements your personal style.

Overall, when choosing a diamond-accented wedding ring to pair with a halo engagement ring, consider your personal preference, the scale of the rings, and how you want to wear them. Select a band that complements the halo setting without overpowering it and reflects your unique style and journey.

Custom-designed wedding bands

When designing a custom wedding band, you can choose the specific design elements that you want to include. For example, you might opt for a pavé band, unique milgrain detailing, or different shaped diamonds. You can also select the metal for your band, choosing from options like rose gold, yellow gold, or platinum. If you're environmentally conscious, you might opt for recycled gold or platinum.

In addition to the design elements, it's important to consider the practical aspects of your custom wedding band. Firstly, ensure that you order your custom band at least two months before your wedding to allow enough time for it to be crafted and delivered. Secondly, think about whether you want your engagement ring and wedding band to be soldered together. Soldering the rings together can prevent movement and wear and tear, but some people prefer to keep their rings separate so they have the option of wearing each ring individually.

Overall, custom-designed wedding bands offer a personalised option that ensures your engagement ring and wedding band fit together perfectly and reflect your unique style.

Gold wedding bands

Types of Gold

When choosing a gold wedding band, you have several options in terms of gold type. The most common types of gold used in jewellery are yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold. Yellow gold is the traditional choice, offering a warm and classic appearance. White gold, on the other hand, has a more contemporary and modern look, providing a sleek and elegant finish. For those who adore the romantic and vintage aesthetic of a halo setting, rose gold is an excellent option, adding a touch of heirloom charm.

Band Style

The style of the gold wedding band you choose will depend on your personal preference and the overall look you wish to achieve. If you want the halo setting to remain the focal point, opt for a classic, plain gold band with a matching metal colour. This will complement the halo ring without overpowering it. Alternatively, if you desire more sparkle, consider pairing the halo ring with a diamond-accented gold band, such as a petite eternity band or a half-pavé band.

Width and Symmetry

Consider the width and symmetry of your gold wedding band in relation to your halo engagement ring. Most people prefer their engagement and wedding rings to be the same width for a cohesive and balanced look. However, you may also choose to have a slightly thicker wedding band to add a unique touch. Ultimately, the decision on width and symmetry comes down to personal preference and what feels comfortable on your finger.

Mixing Metals

When pairing a gold wedding band with a halo engagement ring, you can either match the metal colour or mix different types of gold. While some prefer to maintain a unified aesthetic by matching the metal colour, others embrace the modern trend of mixing metals. For instance, you could pair a rose gold wedding band with a platinum halo engagement ring or combine white gold with yellow gold for a subtle yet elegant statement.

Comfort and Wearability

It's important to select a gold wedding band that is comfortable to wear every day and fits well on your finger. Consider the finger size of the band, especially if you plan to stack multiple rings. A snug engagement ring, paired with a tight-fitting wedding band, can cause discomfort and even damage the rings due to constant twisting and tugging. Choose a band that fits comfortably and allows for some movement on your finger.

Frequently asked questions