Citrine

Citrine is a yellow version of quartz, also known as gold topaz or Spanish topaz. It is not, however, true topaz. It is found in much greater quantity, and is much less expensive to produce and cut into gemstones. Heating other forms of quartz, like amethyst, commercially produces much of today’s citrine. Such citrine is usually betrayed by its orange color with red undertones, instead of the yellow color that marks naturally occurring citrine.
Citrine is often associated with the more brownish topaz because both are November birthstones. Citrine stones are generally much less expensive, however, and are often the birthstone of choice for those without deep pockets. The gem wears extremely well, with a hardness of about 7 on the Mohs Scale. Still, citrine gems should be removed when performing any heavy labor.