Do we know yet that higher-tier materia only count for 1 stat point? Maybe tier IVs are worth 4 points (or even 2, or 3). That could cut down the number by a bit.

I would imagine that the least painful way to get your Alexandrites would be to do a variety of content (including the Hunts that they're adding in 2.3) rather than just speed-burning Brayflox, but I guess if you're trying to get the first Novus on your server then {Brayflox's Longstop} {Have a safe journey.}