Compare the two diamond rings above. The cushion halo easily looks bigger, more brilliant and more interesting. Rather than have a round diamond with a round halo which doesn’t offer a lot of unique detailing, pairing an angular shape like the cushion with a round center stone creates an interesting and attention-getting look.
Depending on the type of center stone it’s paired with, the cushion halo can either soften or harden the look of the ring setting. When paired with a round cut, the angles of the cushion halo provide balance to the soft curves of the round cut. When paired with a princess cut, like this ring here, the cushion halo provides contrast by softening the angles of the princess cut and giving it a curvier feel.