format cells between values -- MANY ranges, similar to icon sets

I have a column of numbers and I'd like to format the cells based on their values using something like the "between two values" rule. The problem is there are so many ranges it would take me forever to create a conditional formatting rule or if statement for each one; plus I will probably need to edit the ranges and/or colors often enough that it would get annoying.

The "Icon Sets" style under "Format all cells based on their values" is a decent example of what I'm trying to accomplish if it was possible to add more rules and fill the cells with a color instead of an icon.

Does anyone know of a way to create a bunch (20 or more) of "between two values" rules and fill each range with a different color?

Any help or guidance would be appreciated.

PS: If I didn't explain myself well enough regarding the ranges, an example would be: fill cells with any amount between 0 and 49 in blue, 50 through 99 in orange, 100 through 999 in green, 1000 through 2999 in yellow, etc. (I'm open to formatting the cell or text a different way if filling it isn't possible.)

Thanks for such a quick reply. The color index is really helpful but I have to admit you lost me after that. I'm not sure what a select case is or how to use associated indices with a list of criteria.

I know how to create formulas, if statements, conditional formatting rules, etc. but I don't know how to write them from scratch if they're even a little complicated. I usually search this forum for a similar problem and then modify the solution to fit my needs.

Any chance you could provide a bit more guidance? I'm pretty good at following the instructions in Microsoft's help files so even if you only have time to tell me what to search for, that would still be really helpful.

Thanks!

PS: I forgot to mention in my original post that I use Excel 2010.

I didn't think I was going to get this to work but it did on the first try! Thanks so much for the help. I can't imagine how long it must have taken to type it all out but I really appreciate it.

Thanks again!