In response to the need for qualified gemologists and the serious gap in gemological training, a study was directed and designed to develop an instructional program which could be used nationally and to establish a vocational gemology program at Paris Junior College. Following the selection of appropriate instructional materials, stations were equipped with the necessary laboratory instruments for gemology research. Originally designed as a thirteen-week course, the program grew to fifteen weeks. Beginning with an orientation to equipment and textbook assignments, succeeding units included the study of light and the study of species and varieties of gem materials, including a fifty-hour unit on diamonds. Student progress was evaluated several times during the course, and bi-monthly conferences were held with each student. The final examination included an oral presentation, a written exam on general gemology and diamonds, and gem identification and grading. Results indicated the achievement of objectives through the completion of an instructional manual, incorporating objectives into the curriculum, and the use of project results as a guide for developing similar programs. (Appended are excerpts from the instructional manual, an equipment price list and student contract, lesson plans, a training program outline, a gemstone chart, an interview report, and an evaluation form.) (FP)