The thing is, two-star crafters don't need HQ mats. My miner friend was looking at what he'd need to do to get HQ palladium ore and he was pretty surprised when I let him know I don't need it HQ.

If you're trying to future proof your melds so they last for a long time, go for it, but crafters who need those mats don't need them HQ.

I think the most reliable source of gathering income at this point is hitting ephemeral nodes for aethersands of all types. HQ hallowed basil might be going for an all right price.