Why Oceanside's Next Generation is Choosing Custom Rings Over Big-Box Bling

In a world where personalization reigns supreme, Oceanside couples are increasingly turning away from mass-produced jewelry in favor of something truly unique—custom engagement and wedding rings. At the forefront of this movement in Oceanside are Ozzy Aguilar and his wife Ivet of 101 Jewelers, located at 403 Wisconsin Avenue. Together they’re redefining what it means to create wedding jewelry that’s as individual as the love stories it represents.

A unique design for every couple

One of the biggest draws of custom rings is the opportunity to design something that no one else is wearing. Whether it’s incorporating a family gemstone, choosing a distinctive metal, or creating a design from scratch, custom jewelry allows couples to express their individuality in a way that big-box retailers simply can't match.

The custom ring experience

Creating a custom wedding ring or engagement ring at 101 Jewelers is a collaborative process. Ozzy begins by asking couples about their vision. Many clients come in with ideas they’ve found on Pinterest or Etsy. It's a great starting point, but Ozzy emphasizes that he can take those inspirations and craft something truly unique.

“We start by assessing what they want and what their budget is,” Ozzy explains. “Then, we do a quick sketch, pulling details from various designs to create something new.”

The process then moves to a CAD (computer-aided design) rendering, which allows couples to see a 3D model of their ring before it’s created. This step is crucial, as it offers an opportunity to make any final adjustments. Once the design is approved, the ring is 3D printed and cast in the material of choice, whether it’s gold, platinum, or another metal. Finally, the diamonds or gemstones are set, and the ring is polished to perfection.

Affordability without compromise

A common misconception is that custom jewelry comes with a hefty price tag. However, many couples are surprised to learn that going custom can be more affordable than buying from a big-box store. Ozzy takes pride in offering truly custom designs, noting that many online retailers charge a premium for mass-produced pieces. “A lot of websites aren’t truly custom,” he says. “We can create something just as beautiful, often for less, because you’re not paying for the huge markups.”

The result? A one-of-a-kind, high-quality ring that fits within their budget. Whether you’re drawn to natural or lab-grown diamonds, Ozzy ensures that you get the best value for your money without compromising on quality or craftsmanship.

Balancing trends with timelessness

When it comes to wedding jewelry, Ozzy advises couples to consider durability as well as design. “A lot of trendy designs look great online, but they’re not always practical,” he warns. “I try to steer people toward designs that are not only beautiful but also durable and long-lasting.”

“I try to steer people toward designs that are not only beautiful but also durable and long-lasting.”

In Oceanside, popular materials include 18k yellow and rose gold, with many couples opting for lab-grown diamonds or alternate gemstones like emeralds or birthstones. Ozzy assures clients that no matter what design they choose, 101 Jewelers can create something that will stand the test of time.

From a family legacy to a passion for craftsmanship

Ozzy’s journey into the world of jewelry began at a young age. Growing up in Vista, he would spend hours in his father’s jewelry shop, fascinated by the intricate work happening at the bench. His passion for the craft was solidified in high school when he started working at the family business after school. What began as a way to earn credits for graduation quickly evolved into a lifelong passion. Ozzy recalls, “I would go to my dad’s shop every day after school, from 2-6 PM. That’s where I really developed my love for the industry.”

A personal touch to custom rings

What sets 101 Jewelers apart is not just the quality of their work, but also the connection they share with their clients. Ozzy and Ivet understand that many of their customers are young couples who want to work with someone who understands their style and vision. “A lot of people expect to see a jeweler in their 60s when they walk into the shop,” Ozzy says with a smile. “But we’re from the same generation as many of our clients, and that makes it easy for them to communicate their ideas to us.”

For Ozzy and Ivet, each piece of jewelry is not just a product, but a labor of love. Whether it’s a custom-designed engagement ring, a wedding band, or a unique piece of anniversary jewelry, they approach every project with the same dedication and care. As Ozzy puts it, “Each piece ends up being my favorite piece.”

“Each piece ends up being my favorite piece.”

Stories that sparkle

Every piece of jewelry created at 101 Jewelers has a story, but a few stand out in Ozzy’s memory. One of his favorite projects involved a customer who was an engineer. The client had a unique vision for a ring with three interlocking bands, a design Ozzy initially struggled to visualize. But once the client brought in a cardboard model, Ozzy knew exactly how to bring it to life. The result was a stunning platinum ring featuring a five-carat emerald-cut diamond—an intricate design that became a one-of-a-kind masterpiece.

Another memorable project involved a customer who brought in diamonds his mother had given him to create a custom ring. After shopping around at other jewelers, the customer returned to Ozzy, who was able to craft the ring for less than the other estimates. The customer’s wife was so thrilled with the ring that she returned later to have a matching sleeve designed.

And of course, there's the ring he made for Ivet when he proposed. The vintage ring had been sitting on his desk for several years waiting for the right person to come along. He selected the perfect stones to complete it and proposed to Ivet. The couple will celebrate their tenth wedding anniversary in October 2024.

The 101 Jewelers difference

In a market saturated with cookie-cutter designs, 101 Jewelers offers a refreshing alternative. For Oceanside’s next generation, the choice is clear—custom rings offer unmatched value, uniqueness, and personal connection that simply can’t be found in big-box bling.