In the 2013 GIA Holiday Buying Guide, we’ve talked about diamond jewelry styles and trends, and how to buy diamond jewelry, but as we near the end of the holiday, there is still one significant topic to address: how to buy her something she’ll love.

While holiday jewelry purchases are predominantly for women, many men would love to be on the receiving end of the jewelry-giving. Today, GIA’s Holiday Buying Guide series continues with tips for buying jewelry for men.

Everywhere you look, you’re likely to see lots of leather: leather bracelets, leather belts, and a wide array of leather jewelry.

PUNK: Chaos to Couture, the Metropolitan Museum of Art’s exhibit on punk style, whipped up interest in leather. The Green movement (some people view leather as a natural product), urban fashionistas wanting to look hip, and the rising prices of gold and platinum have also spiked interest.

Believe it or not, 2013 is nearing its close and 2014 trend reports are already on the horizon. But with engagement season upon us (according to a survey conducted by prominent online wedding site The Knot in 2011, 32% of engagements take place in November and December), let’s review a few of the hottest 2013 engagement ring trends of 2013 for those who are considering popping the question this holiday season.

Owls seem to be everywhere…and not just in trees. They’re landing on pins. Nesting on rings. And perching on bracelets. Yes, the owl is a beautiful bird. But the symbolism associated with these lovely creatures is likely one reason jewelry connoisseurs are adding owls to their collections.

The stores have their decorations up, which means that the 2013 holiday shopping season has officially begun. To assist with a fine jewelry purchase you may be considering, GIA has put together a Holiday Buying Guide, a 7-part series dedicated to making you a more informed jewelry shopper, as well as a more relaxed one.