If you've been wondering how to break into the jewelry industry but haven't been able to find any schools in your area, then the Internet is probably your best bet. While there are numerous schools on-line these days, for those interested in a jewelry-related career, one of the most well-known schools is the Gemology Institute of America (GIA), Established in 1931, GIA is internationally recognized as one of the leading educational institutions when it comes to gems and jewelry, and like many schools they are now plugged into the Internet, offering distance learning classes in all kinds of jewelry subject matter.

According to GIA's web site: " Learn in the convenience of your home or office. GIA's acclaimed course material can be sent straight to your door. And using GIA's Virtual Campus, you can submit assignments, receive results instantly, and monitor your progress all online with just a few computer keystrokes. That means you earn professional credibility and confidence without disrupting your life."

Some of the available classes through GIA's distance learning program include:

• Jewelry Essentials
• Diamond and Diamond Grading
• colored Stones
• Diamond Essentials
• Colored Stone Essentials
• Gem Identification

You can find out more on GIA's web site under Distance Education Courses.