So I have all my crafting classes to 50..

[Simaril]

and get your own crystals.

Why would I gather cheap crystals when I could gather something more valuable in the same time??? Gather what ever is the most valuable (gil/time), and buy the cheaper stuff!!! If the value of the crystals you gather is the best gil/time then anything else, then sure - gather crystals.

One nice bonus of gathering as a crafter, is that you generally don't need the HQ mats - some of which sell very well.

[Lionhand]

Why would I gather cheap crystals when I could gather something more valuable in the same time??? Gather what ever is the most valuable (gil/time), and buy the cheaper stuff!!! If the value of the crystals you gather is the best gil/time then anything else, then sure - gather crystals.

One nice bonus of gathering as a crafter, is that you generally don't need the HQ mats - some of which sell very well.

I'm from a relatively young server where crystals are pricey (moreso when i was just starting). If it's dirt cheap and you have enough gil, sure buy it, otherwise get your own. RMTs sell crystals during the early months - as much as possible i dont buy from them. I do spiritbonding too while gathering. Also, the OP said she doesn't even meet the required stats to even make a good HQ rotation yet, so while low in gear & stats, HQ mats do help a lot in crafting HQ items. Selling HQ items is way better than selling HQ mats.