In the expansive open world of Final Fantasy XIV, the Bicolor Gemstone currency system serves as a vital economic engine connecting player activity in the open world to unique rewards. At the heart of this system lies the Gemstone Trader, an NPC vendor that unlocks only after players demonstrate sufficient engagement with the Shared FATE system. The requirement to unlock these traders is not a singular static number but a progression metric tied to the "Shared FATE" rank within a specific expansion's zones. To access the Gemstone Trader and the Riding Maps they sell, a player must reach Rank Two within a specific region. Achieving Rank Two requires the successful completion of six distinct FATEs in that area. This threshold acts as the primary gatekeeper for the trading system.
The mechanics of unlocking are deeply integrated with the game's open-world questing structure. FATEs (Find an Exciting Target and Explore) are dynamic, open-world occurrences that appear randomly across the map. Unlike linear story quests, FATEs are marked on the map and can be joined by players at any time. The completion of these events generates Bicolor Gemstones, which function as the primary currency for the system. However, the currency is secondary to the rank system. The rank itself is the key that turns on the vendor. Until a player completes six different FATEs in a specific zone, the Gemstone Trader in that zone remains locked, and the Riding Map cannot be purchased. This design encourages players to engage with the open-world content before they can access the vendor's wares.
Progress toward this goal is transparent to the player. By navigating to the 'Travel' menu and selecting the 'Shared FATE' option, players can view their current completion count and rank for every region in the game. This interface provides real-time feedback on how many FATEs have been cleared and whether the Rank Two threshold has been met. Once the threshold of six FATEs is reached, the Gemstone Trader becomes active, allowing the purchase of Riding Maps for 70 Bicolor Gemstones. These maps are essential for increasing mount speed and unlocking the full traversal potential of the new zones.
The scope of this system spans multiple expansions, from Shadowbringers through Endwalker and into the latest Dawntrail content. Each expansion introduces new zones, each with its own Gemstone Trader, specific NPC names, and coordinate locations. The requirement to unlock remains consistent: six FATEs per zone to achieve Rank Two. However, the rewards and the efficiency of gemstone gathering vary significantly based on the type of FATE and the specific bonuses available.
Understanding the precise mechanics of unlocking the trader requires a deep dive into how Bicolor Gemstones are earned, how ranks function, and the strategic layering of bonuses. While the base requirement is six FATEs, the path to reaching that rank and maximizing the currency for subsequent purchases involves complex interaction with the "Twist of Fate" buffs and specific boss FATEs. The system is designed to reward not just participation, but strategic planning regarding when to spend buffs and which FATEs to target for maximum efficiency.
The Rank Progression and Unlocking Mechanism
The core mechanic for accessing the Gemstone Trader is the completion of six distinct FATEs within a specific region. This requirement is uniform across the expansion zones, but the specific FATEs can vary. The "Shared FATE" system tracks progress per zone. Unlike standard quests where progress is global, the Gemstone Trader lock is local to the zone. For instance, completing six FATEs in Labyrinthos unlocks the trader in Labyrinthos, but does not automatically unlock the trader in Thavnair or Garlemald. Each expansion's zones operate with their own independent rank progressions.
The rank system is binary in its immediate effect: Rank One is the default state where the trader is unavailable. Upon completing six FATEs, the player advances to Rank Two, which triggers the availability of the Gemstone Trader and the Riding Map. This threshold is strictly enforced. Without reaching Rank Two, the vendor's menu remains hidden, and the Riding Map cannot be purchased. This mechanic ensures that players must actively participate in the open-world content before accessing high-level rewards like speed mounts.
The interface for monitoring this progression is located in the Travel menu under the 'Shared FATE' tab. Here, players can see a breakdown of completed FATEs per zone. This transparency allows for strategic planning. Players can identify exactly how many FATEs remain to reach Rank Two. If the player has completed five FATEs, one more distinct FATE is required to trigger the unlock. If the player has completed ten FATEs, they are well past the threshold, but the trader remains active. The system does not reset; once Rank Two is achieved, the trader remains permanently unlocked for that zone.
It is important to note that the six FATEs must be "different" FATEs. Completing the same FATE six times does not count toward the rank requirement. The system tracks unique FATE IDs. Therefore, a player must seek out six distinct quest lines within the zone. This encourages exploration and variety in open-world activities rather than grinding a single event repeatedly.
The unlocking of the Gemstone Trader is not the end of the goal; it is the gateway to purchasing Riding Maps. These maps cost 70 Bicolor Gemstones each. Since the trader is locked until Rank Two, players cannot buy these maps until they have completed the requisite six FATEs. This creates a feedback loop where open-world participation directly enables traversal upgrades. The Riding Maps allow players to increase their mount speed, which in turn facilitates faster travel between FATEs, creating a synergistic cycle of exploration and reward.
In the context of the latest expansion, Dawntrail, the system continues this pattern. The requirements remain consistent: six FATEs to unlock the trader. However, the specific zones, NPC names, and coordinate locations change with each expansion. The underlying logic remains the same: active engagement in six distinct open-world events is the key to unlocking the vendor and its wares.
Strategic Gemstone Acquisition and Bonuses
While the six-FATE threshold unlocks the trader, the actual purchasing power depends on the accumulation of Bicolor Gemstones. The number of gemstones earned is not fixed; it varies based on the difficulty and type of the FATE. Higher-level FATEs, particularly those at level 80 and above in Endwalker zones, yield significantly more gemstones than lower-level events. This creates a strategic imperative: players should prioritize high-level FATEs to maximize their haul per completion.
The system includes a sophisticated bonus structure known as "Twist of Fate." This buff can be obtained by defeating specific targets, such as the "Forlorn Maiden" or "The Forlorn," during a FATE. These buffs provide percentage increases to the gemstone reward. The mechanics of these bonuses are additive, meaning they stack directly.
The specific bonus values are as follows: - Defeating a Forlorn Maiden or The Forlorn during a FATE grants a +25% increase (or +300% for The Forlorn in certain contexts). - Clearing a FATE while holding the Twist of Fate buff from a Forlorn Maiden provides a +50% increase. - Clearing a FATE with the "Twist of Fate" buff from The Forlorn provides a massive +300% increase. - Clearing an FATE marked with an "up-arrow" (EXP Bonus) grants a +100% increase.
These bonuses can be combined. For example, if a player clears an EXP Bonus FATE while holding the Twist of Fate buff from The Forlorn, the total increase becomes +400%. The system notes that these bonuses stack additively, not multiplicatively. This means the total multiplier is the sum of the individual percentages. For instance, killing a Forlorn Maiden (+25%) and using an EXP Bonus FATE (+100%) results in a total of +125% bonus. The most efficient strategy involves saving the "Twist of Fate" buff from the rare "The Forlorn" and spending it on a large-scale boss FATE or an EXP Bonus FATE to maximize the yield.
The quantity of gemstones earned also depends on the specific FATE type. Rare, large-scale boss FATEs offer substantial rewards: - "The Serpentlord Seethes Mascot Murder" yields 100 gemstones. - "Devout Pilgrims vs. Daivadipa Omicron Recall: Killing Order" yields 86 gemstones. - "A Finale Most Formidable The Head, the Tail, the Whole Damned Thing" yields 72 gemstones.
These high-value events are critical for players aiming to purchase Bicolor Gemstone Vouchers, which cost 500 gemstones each. To obtain a voucher, a player needs 500 Bicolor Gemstones. If the goal is to acquire multiple vouchers for glamour gear, mounts like the Alkonost, or unique minions, players must strategically layer these bonuses to reach the 500-gemstone threshold efficiently.
The acquisition rates also vary by expansion. In the 7.0 Dawntrail zones, the base reward is 16 gemstones. In the 6.0 Endwalker zones, it is 14 gemstones. In the 5.0 Shadowbringers zones, it is 12 gemstones. This progression reflects the increasing value of the currency as the game evolves. Players must adapt their strategies to the specific expansion they are playing, focusing on the highest yield FATEs available in that region.
Vendor Locations and Regional Variations
To utilize the unlocked Gemstone Trader, players must travel to the specific NPC locations within each zone. These vendors are situated in the major towns or centers of the respective zones. The locations are precise, defined by x and y coordinates. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the Gemstone Trader locations across the three major expansions.
Shadowbringers (5.0) Trader Locations:
| Zone | NPC Name | Coordinates |
|---|---|---|
| Kholusia | Zumutt | (X:11.7, Y:8.9) |
| Amh Araeng | Halden | (X:10.6, Y:17.1) |
| Lakeland | Siulmet | (X:35.5, Y:20.6) |
| Il Mheg | Sul Lad | (X:16.2, Y:30.6) |
| The Rak'tika Greatwood | Nacille | (X:27.9, Y:18.3) |
| The Tempest | Goushs Ooan | (X:33.2, Y:18.1) |
| The Crystarium | Gramsol | (X:11, Y:14) |
| Eulmore | Pedronille | (X:11, Y:12) |
Endwalker (6.0) Trader Locations:
| Zone | NPC Name | Coordinates |
|---|---|---|
| Labyrinthos | Faezbroes | (X:21.9, Y:12.2) |
| Thavnair | Mahveydah | (X:25.9, Y:34.6) |
| Garlemald | Zawawa | (X:12.9, Y:30.1) |
| Mare Lamentorum | Tradingway | (X:21.8, Y:12.2) |
| Elpis | Aisara | (X:24.5, Y:23.3) |
| Ultima Thule | N-1499 | (X:30.9, Y:28.0) |
| Old Sharlayan | Gadfrid | (X:12.7, Y:10.4) |
| Radz-at-Han | Sajareen | (X:11.1, Y:10.2) |
Dawntrail (7.0) Trader Locations:
| Zone | NPC Name | Coordinates |
|---|---|---|
| Urqopacha | Tepli | (X:27.5, Y:11.7) |
| Kozama'uka | Kunuhali | (X:17.4, Y:11.0) |
| Yak T'el | Rral Wuruq | (X:13.8, Y:12.7) |
| Shaaloani | Mitepe | (X:28.6, Y:30.8) |
| Heritage Found | Toashana | (X:16.3, Y:9.6) |
| Living Memory | Clerk PX-0029 | (X:22.0, Y:37.5) |
| Tuliyollal | Kajeel Ja | (X:12.8, Y:13.0) |
Each of these vendors becomes accessible only after the player completes six FATEs in that specific zone, reaching Rank Two. The coordinates provided allow players to navigate directly to the vendor once unlocked. The naming convention for the NPCs varies, with some being humanoid characters and others, like N-1499 in Ultima Thule, appearing to be robotic or technological entities, reflecting the unique aesthetic of the zone.
The Economy of Vouchers and Rewards
Once the Gemstone Trader is unlocked, the system transitions from a participation-based reward to a currency-based economy. Players can exchange their accumulated Bicolor Gemstones for Bicolor Gemstone Vouchers. The exchange rate is fixed: one voucher costs 500 Bicolor Gemstones. This conversion is the primary method for players to convert their open-world efforts into tradable or redeemable items.
The Bicolor Gemstone Voucher is a powerful item that can be exchanged for a variety of high-value goods. The inventory available for purchase includes: - Unique mounts, such as the Alkonost. - Distinctive glitzy attire and glamour gear. - Rare minions, such as the minion that interferes with the wind (Azeyma). - Exciting pets and other unique treasures.
The maximum holding limit for Bicolor Gemstones is 1,500, as of Patch 7.0. This cap ensures that players cannot hoard excessive amounts, encouraging them to spend on vouchers or maps regularly. Since a voucher costs 500 gemstones, a player can hold up to three vouchers' worth of currency before hitting the cap, assuming they have not yet converted them.
The strategic depth lies in the optimization of the "Twist of Fate" mechanics. Because the bonuses stack additively, players must carefully manage their buffs. Saving a "Twist of Fate" buff from "The Forlorn" until it can be applied to a large-scale boss FATE maximizes the yield. For example, combining the +300% buff from The Forlorn with the +100% EXP Bonus FATE results in a total of +400% increase. This means a FATE that normally gives 14 gemstones (in Endwalker zones) could yield 70 gemstones (14 + 14*4.0) when these bonuses are applied. This efficiency is crucial for reaching the 500-gemstone threshold for vouchers faster.
The system also allows for the purchase of Riding Maps for 70 gemstones. These maps are distinct from the vouchers. They are necessary for unlocking the full speed potential of mounts in each zone. The maps are zone-specific, meaning a player must buy a map for each Endwalker zone (Labyrinthos, Thavnair, Garlemald, etc.) to unlock the speed boost in that specific area.
The value proposition of the Bicolor Gemstone system is clear: it rewards consistent engagement with the open world. The six-FATE requirement acts as a gate, ensuring players experience the content before they can access the rewards. Once the gate is passed, the economy allows for the acquisition of cosmetic and functional items that enhance the player's journey. The system is designed to be non-grindy; by targeting high-level FATEs and utilizing the additive bonuses, a player can efficiently gather the necessary currency.
Advanced Strategy: Maximizing Gemstone Yield
To maximize the efficiency of the Gemstone system, players must understand the interplay between FATE types, bonuses, and the rank requirements. The base reward structure varies by expansion, but the multiplier system remains the key to rapid accumulation.
The most effective strategy involves targeting the highest tier FATEs. In Endwalker zones, the base reward is 14 gemstones. By combining the "Twist of Fate" buff from The Forlorn (+300%) with an EXP Bonus FATE (+100%), the total multiplier is 5.0x. This turns a standard 14-gemstone reward into 84 gemstones per completion. This efficiency allows players to reach the 500-gemstone voucher threshold in fewer than seven FATEs, provided they successfully stack these bonuses.
However, the availability of these bonuses is conditional. "The Forlorn" is a rare spawn that appears in specific high-level zones (Ultima Thule, etc.). Players must wait for its appearance, defeat it to gain the buff, and then immediately find a high-value FATE to consume the buff. The "Forlorn Maiden" is more common but offers a lower bonus (+50%). The strategic choice is to save the rare "The Forlorn" buff for the most lucrative FATEs, such as the large-scale boss events that naturally yield 70-100 gemstones.
The stacking mechanic is additive, not multiplicative. This means that if a player has multiple buffs, they sum the percentages. For example, if a player kills a Forlorn Maiden (+25%) and has an EXP Bonus (+100%), the total is +125%. If they also have the Twist of Fate from The Forlorn (+300%), the total becomes +425%. This linear addition simplifies the math for players: every bonus adds a fixed amount to the base reward, making it easier to plan for the 500-gemstone voucher goal.
It is also critical to note that the six-FATE unlock requirement is a one-time event per zone. Once Rank Two is achieved, the trader remains open. Subsequent FATEs can be completed to gather more currency without needing to re-unlock the vendor. This means the initial investment of six FATEs is the primary hurdle. After that, the player can focus purely on maximizing yield to buy vouchers or maps.
The cap of 1,500 gemstones acts as a safety valve. Players cannot hoard beyond this limit, forcing regular spending on vouchers or maps. This encourages a healthy economy where players cycle through the system: complete FATEs -> gain gemstones -> buy vouchers/maps -> unlock new content -> repeat.
Conclusion
The path to unlocking the Gemstone Trader in Final Fantasy XIV is defined by a clear, achievable milestone: the completion of six distinct FATEs within a specific zone. This requirement is consistent across all expansions, from Shadowbringers to Dawntrail. Once this threshold is met, the Gemstone Trader becomes active, granting access to Riding Maps and the ability to exchange gemstones for Bicolor Gemstone Vouchers. The system is designed to reward active participation in the open world, turning the completion of six specific events into a gateway for significant rewards.
The strategic depth of the system lies in the "Twist of Fate" mechanics and the additive stacking of bonuses. By targeting high-level FATEs and efficiently utilizing buffs from The Forlorn and the Forlorn Maiden, players can dramatically increase their gemstone yield. This efficiency is essential for acquiring the 500-gemstone vouchers needed for exclusive mounts like the Alkonost and unique attire. The specific coordinates of the traders are fixed, allowing players to navigate directly to the vendor once unlocked.
Ultimately, the Gemstone system is a well-integrated feature that ties open-world exploration to tangible in-game value. The requirement of six FATEs ensures that players engage with the content, while the bonus system provides the tools to maximize their returns. Whether the goal is to purchase a Riding Map to increase mount speed or to collect vouchers for glamour gear, the path begins with those six FATEs.