While topaz is an equally beautiful gem, it is usually much less ex pensive since it is usually treated to obtain its desirable colour. Also, note that many aquamarine-colored synthetic spinels are erroneously sold as aquamarine. It is yellow, amber, to amber brown. While a pleasing stone in terms of colour, and fairly durable, citrine is slightly softer and has less brilliance than precious topaz. It also lacks the subtle colour shading, the pinkier yellow or pinkish amber shades, which lend to precious topaz a distinctive colour difference.
Citrine is also much less expensive than precious topaz.
Citrine is plentiful in all sizes, and can be made into striking jewellery, especially in very large sizes, for a relatively small investment. Aside from being the birthstone for May, it was historically believed to bestow on its wearer faithful ness and unchanging love, and was thought to enable the wearer to forecast events. Although a hard stone, emerald will chip easily since it tends to be somewhat brittle, so special care should be given in wearing and handling. Because of emerald's popularity and value, imitations are abundant. Techniques to enhance colour and reduce the visibility of flaws are also frequently used.