Crystal Sand isn't that bad. I just farm chests from HW leves for Amber-Encased Vilekin.

That said I do agree, the Umbrites are crazy in the fact that there is no other way to attain them besides Lore. When I started the relic a few weeks back I was surprised to learn I wouldn't need to concern myself with the Tome Grind for Unidentified stuff. Already had 5 jars of Aether Oil from Crystal Tower runs for music rolls, triad cards, and minions. It was a nice feeling to go from just starting the relic to Hyperconductive in less than a week. Then I got slapped with Umbrites. Just had to remind myself I more or less skipped the last tomestone grind thanks to beast tribes selling the unidentified stuff.