In 2006, colorful gemstones and sparkling diamonds are a winning bet in jewelry, says the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). This prestigious nonprofit organization teaches anyone interested in learning about gems and jewelry, as well as members of the jewelry industry itself, about diamonds, gemstones and jewelry design – and even grants business degrees in jewelry in a new program beginning this year.

The Bohemian looks favored by celebrities are morphing into sleek, ladylike silhouettes for spring, led by the new prominence of the dress. The seasonal colors are soft and flattering – delicate pastels and neutrals. Creating a more dramatic turn are graphic black-and-white patterns. Most often, the punctuation of an outfit comes from accessories with floral motifs or in bright colors.

For all of these ladylike looks, the finishing touch of fine jewelry is a must.

Flirtatious and flattering, earrings remain fairly long and dangling, sparkling with faceted gemstone drops. Rings and bracelets are wide and bold, cocktail rings continue their comeback and cuffs make a reappearance. The newest necklaces go in several directions— very long in length, layered with several strands or just resting on the collarbone.

In spring collections, many designers have chosen neutral colorations—nude palettes and muted earth tones. With that new chiffon blouse with ruffled or lace trim, choose a delicate necklace with a centerpiece of pastel-colored gemstones such as pink tourmaline, blue chalcedony, peridot, citrine or morganite.

What would spring be without flowers? GIA says that jewelry designers are showing earrings and rings blooming with tiny carved flowers of coral, turquoise and mother of pearl or are creating pendants of crystal flowers with diamond centers worn on silk cords.

Continuing to be a favorite look of fashionable women are necklaces of gemstone beads. These colorful beads are cut in a variety of ways: round, oval, square, faceted or freeform shapes. For the ultimate in versatility, GIA’s gemstone experts advise choosing a necklace mixing several different colors, such as the spring-like combination of citrine/peridot/amethyst.

At the other end of the color spectrum is the dramatic combination of black and white, from graphic zebra stripes to classic checkerboards. Here, designers are showing earrings of white South Sea pearls with black Tahitian pearls – one color on each ear – or as bold drops with the pearl colors reversed. Other options include black onyx, hematite, ebony, white agate, mother of pearl, crystal or black and white enamel.

To learn more about colored gems - as well as the ever-popular diamonds - go to the GIA website or call 800-421-7250 for a wealth of gem and jewelry information, as well as for GIA Education and Laboratory services. There are two separate tutorials on the website, one for diamonds and one for gemstones. Both sites can be accessed from GIA’s home page.