I think Chuck nailed it on the importance of lighting. I'm thinking of building a light tent of some kind, which is just a frame covered with white fabric and lighted from the outside. It allows you to light the object to be photographed indirectly without the glare and shadows. There are ready made popup versions available. Do a google search for light tents and you'll find lots of ideas. Here's one http://www.creativepro.com/story/feature/19002.html

Another valuable photography site is http://www.kenrockwell.com/tech.htm Lots of camera reviews and helpful info.