When choosing the perfect engagement ring, settings are important in terms of style and functionality. Two popular options are bezel and halo settings, which both offer different styles with unique advantages.
What is a Bezel Setting?
Bezel settings are favored for their retro appeal and protective design, which securely holds the center stone in place. This setting features a small metal rim that encircles the diamond, often in a circular shape, and may include milgrain detailing for a vintage touch.
Known for its durability and security, the bezel setting safeguards your gemstone from damage, making it a great option for those with active lifestyles, hands-on professions, or a preference for added protection. Additionally, an engagement ring with a bezel setting reduces the risk of snagging on fabric or becoming loose over time, making it a great choice for brides-to-be.
2.76 carat Oval Lab Diamond Bezel Set Pave Wrap Ring
2.71 carat Emerald Cut Lab Diamond Bezel Set Ring
Bezel Setting Benefits
A major benefit of a bezel setting is they can fit nearly any style of engagement ring. If you want a three-stone engagement ring, there is no issue putting a bezel setting around it!
3.02 carat Emerald Cut Lab Diamond Bezel Set Three-Stone Ring
On the other hand, if you like the idea of a bezel setting but you aren’t completely sure, you can always opt for a semi-bezel setting.
3.54 carat Cushion Lab Diamond Bezel Set Invisible Gallery™ Ring
What is a Halo Setting?
A halo setting features one or multiple rows of small, round pave diamonds or gems surrounding the center stone. A halo can be added to any shaped center stone and can make the center stone appear (up to) a full carat size larger, depending on the carat size.
This enhances the overall brilliance and sparkle, as both the central stone and the surrounding stones catch and reflect light beautifully.
At Lauren B, we have several different types of halos: the classic halo, the double halo, the double edge halo, and the Hidden Halo™.
2.09 carat Oval Lab Diamond Fishtail Halo Ring
3.01 Carat Cushion Lab Diamond Double Edge Halo Ring
Halo Setting Benefits
Like bezel settings, halo settings come with a few benefits. As mentioned, halo settings can add up to a carat size in appearance to your center stone. With this in mind, if your budget is a concern, you can compromise on carat weight and add a halo to make your engagement ring look bigger!
Additionally, if you are one who wants the utmost amount of sparkle for your ring, a halo is the perfect setting for you! Nothing says glitz and glam more than a halo setting.
Finally, halo settings are a classic; everyone, at least once in their life, probably imagined themselves with a halo engagement ring–at least when they were little. With that in mind, the style may go in and out of mainstream trends, but they will always be around.
Factors to Consider
When purchasing an engagement ring, there may be some factors you want to consider. One key factor to consider is your lifestyle. Of course, you should always aim to protect your ring by taking it off before engaging in physical activities or sleeping. However, if you find yourself with your ring on while playing sports, frequently at the gym, or in a field where you’re working with your hands, you may want to opt for a more protective style such as a bezel setting for its durability.
Aesthetics are also important for some. Those who prefer a more simplistic design may appreciate a bezel setting while those who prefer a more glamorous style might lean toward halo settings.
Something else to consider is the characteristics of your gemstone, as its size and shape can influence how the setting complements it. For example, a bezel setting may be more suited for a larger center stone, as the bezel will protect it, whereas a halo setting can enhance the visual appearance of your center stone if it’s on the smaller side.
Which Setting is Right for You?
Overall, bezel settings offer the most protection but may slightly reduce the stone’s visibility, while halo settings enhance brilliance and sparkle but can be more delicate and require additional upkeep.
At Lauren B, you have plenty of options. You can also customize any ring to your liking and create the ring of your dreams with the help of our design consultants. Follow us on Instagram to see some of our popular in-stock rings, go on our Pinterest for engagement ring inspiration. Schedule an appointment to come visit us in our New York City showroom!
