The Final Fantasy XIV expansion, Dawntrail, introduced a refined system for Bicolor Gemstones, a premium currency that players can earn through specific in-game activities. Unlike previous expansions where the currency might have been more broadly applicable or tied to different mechanics, Dawntrail has implemented a distinct "Shared FATE" system. This system creates a structured path for players to unlock merchants and access unique inventory. The currency is not new to the franchise, but the mechanics for earning and spending it have evolved significantly in this latest chapter of the game. The core loop involves completing FATEs (Financial Action Team Events) within specific zones to increase standing with regional traders, thereby unlocking new tiers of merchandise that are otherwise unobtainable through standard gameplay or the market board.
The Dawntrail expansion utilizes a Shared FATE system similar to Shadowbringers and Endwalker, but with a key distinction: there are four distinct ranks for each merchant. Players must complete a minimum number of FATEs in a zone to increase their rank with the relevant trader. Once a player reaches Rank 4 in all zones, special traders located in Solution Nine and Tuliyollal are unlocked. This progression system encourages thorough exploration and repeated engagement with the open-world content of the new expansion. The currency is spent on a wide array of items, ranging from essential crafting materials and riding maps to exclusive mounts, minions, framing kits, and orchestration rolls.
The Shared FATE Progression System
Understanding the mechanics of earning Bicolor Gemstones is the first step to efficient spending. In Dawntrail, the currency is earned by participating in Shared FATEs, which are collaborative quests available in every zone of the expansion. The system is designed to reward consistent participation. The progression is linear and zone-specific, meaning a player's rank with a trader in Urqopacha is independent of their rank with a trader in Kozama'uka.
The rank structure is defined by the number of FATEs completed. To reach the maximum rank, which unlocks the premium vendors in the central hubs of Solution Nine and Tuliyollal, players must reach Rank 4 in every zone. The progression thresholds are as follows:
| Rank | Number of FATEs Required |
|---|---|
| 1 | 1 to 6 FATEs |
| 2 | 20 FATEs |
| 3 | 40 FATEs |
| 4 | 66 FATEs |
This table illustrates the escalating effort required to unlock higher-tier items. The first few FATEs grant immediate access to basic materials, but the most exclusive rewards, such as specific framing kits and orchestration rolls, require a substantial time investment. Players can monitor their progress by opening the Shared FATEs Log, accessible via the Travel Menu. This log details the current rank for each zone and the specific requirements to advance. A strategic approach suggests that unlocking flight in a zone is the most efficient method to complete FATEs rapidly. Flying allows players to traverse the zone quickly, completing the required number of events to hit the 66-FATE threshold for Rank 4.
Once the Rank 4 threshold is met in a zone, the corresponding merchant in that specific region becomes fully active. However, the ultimate goal for many players is to unlock the vendors in the central hubs. The traders in Solution Nine and Tuliyollal remain locked until the player has achieved Rank 4 in every Dawntrail zone. This mechanism ensures that players who have fully explored and engaged with the entire expansion are the only ones who can access the most exclusive items found in these central locations.
Regional Traders and Their Unique Inventories
Each region in Dawntrail hosts a dedicated Bicolor Gemstone Trader, identifiable on the map by a specific icon. These NPCs are scattered across the new lands, and each offers a unique inventory tailored to the local theme and resources. The items available are often tied to the zone's specific fauna, flora, and cultural motifs. Below is a comprehensive breakdown of the NPC locations and their unique wares.
NPC Locations and Coordinates
| NPC Name | Region | Coordinates |
|---|---|---|
| Tepli | Urqopacha | (x27.5, y11.7) |
| Kunuhali | Kozama'uka | (x17.4, y11.0) |
| Rral Wuruq | Yak T'el | (x13.8, y12.7) |
| Mitepe | Shaaloani | (x28.6, y30.8) |
| Toashana | Heritage Found | (x16.3, y9.6) |
| Beryl | Solution Nine | (x8.4, y14.0) |
| Kajeel Ja | Tuliyollal | (x12.8, y13.0) |
| Clerk PX-0029 | Living Memory | (x22.0, y37.5) |
Urqopacha Vendor Analysis
Tepli in Urqopacha sells a mix of raw materials and cosmetic items. The inventory reflects the region's wildlife, offering items like Silver Lobo Hide, Alpaca Filet, and Megamaguey Pineapple, all costing a mere 3 Bicolor Gemstones. As players progress to Rank 2, they can purchase the Urqopacha Riding Map for 90 gems. Higher ranks unlock more complex items: the Pelupelu Partition (Rank 3, 150 gems) and the Windswept Echoes Orchestration Roll (Rank 4, 450 gems). The ultimate exclusive is the Alpaca Cria minion, available only at Rank 4 for 700 gems. This minion is a sought-after vanity item, not obtainable through other means.
Kozama'uka Vendor Analysis
Kunuhali in Kozama'uka offers a similar progression. At Rank 1, players can buy Hammerhead Crocodile Skin, Swampmonk Thigh, Poison Frog Secretions, and Lesser Apollyon Shell, each for 3 gems. The Kozama'uka Riding Map unlocks at Rank 2 (90 gems). The Rank 3 item is the Ihuykatumu Bed (150 gems). At Rank 4, players gain access to the "Of Glittering Wings" Orchestration Roll (450 gems) and the Stuffed Flag (150 gems). The Stuffed Flag is particularly unique, likely serving as a decorative furnishing or a vanity item.
Yak T'el Vendor Analysis
Rral Wuruq in Yak T'el provides materials from the local fauna such as Br'aax Hide, Branchbearer Fruit, and Ty'aitya Wingblade (all Rank 1, 3 gems). The riding map costs 90 gems at Rank 2. The Rank 3 item is the Yak T'el Scale Tree (150 gems). At Rank 4, the inventory includes the "Emerald Under Sapphire" Orchestration Roll (450 gems) and the Ilyikty'i minion (700 gems). The Ilyikty'i minion is a distinct vanity item that can only be obtained through this specific vendor at the highest rank.
Shaaloani Vendor Analysis
Mitepe in Shaaloani offers a diverse inventory. Rank 1 items include Rroneek Fleece, Rroneek Chuck, Nopalitender Tuna, and Tumbleclaw Weeds (3 gems each). The Shaaloani Riding Map is available at Rank 2 (90 gems). At Rank 3, the Assortment of Strewn Bottles (150 gems) is available. Rank 4 unlocks the Ceruleum Smoke At High Noon Orchestration Roll (450 gems) and the Turali Barding (450 gems). The Turali Barding is a unique mount customization item, essential for players who wish to equip their mount with the specific aesthetics of the Turali culture.
Heritage Found Vendor Analysis
Toashana in Heritage Found sells items like Gomphotherium Skin and Axe Beak Wing (Rank 1, 3 gems). The riding map (Rank 2, 90 gems) and Heritage Found Crates (Rank 3, 150 gems) follow the standard progression. At Rank 4, the Flash In the Dark Orchestration Roll (450 gems) and the Otis Card (300 gems) are available. The Otis Card appears to be a collectible or trading card, adding a layer of collector's value to the currency's utility.
Living Memory Vendor Analysis
Clerk PX-0029 in Living Memory offers Gargantua Hide at Rank 1 (3 gems), the riding map at Rank 2 (90 gems), and the Neo Kingdom Lamppost at Rank 3 (150 gems). The highest tier, Rank 4, unlocks the Bygone Serenity Orchestration Roll (450 gems) and the Cahciua Card (300 gems). The Cahciua Card is another unique collectible, suggesting a theme of collecting cards or memorabilia.
Central Hub Vendors: Solution Nine and Tuliyollal
The true endgame for Bicolor Gemstone spending lies in the central hubs, which only unlock after achieving Rank 4 in all zones.
Solution Nine (Vendor: Beryl) In Solution Nine, the inventory shifts away from raw materials toward high-end vanity and utility items. - Turali Bicolor Gemstone Voucher: 100 gems (Available immediately, no rank required). - Vending Machine Nine: 150 gems. - Neon Parasol: 500 gems. - Starless Night Orchestration Roll: 450 gems. - Bright Solution Framer's Kit: 600 gems. - Dark Solution Framer's Kit: 600 gems.
Tuliyollal (Vendor: Kajeel Ja) Tuliyollal offers a parallel set of items, often mirroring the Solution Nine inventory but with distinct regional flair. - Turali Bicolor Gemstone Voucher: 100 gems. - Tuliyollan Table Lamp: 150 gems. - Morrow's Might Orchestration Roll: 450 gems. - Golden Dawn Framer's Kit: 600 gems. - Crimson Dawn Framer's Kit: 600 gems.
The Framer's Kits are particularly valuable for players interested in customizing their inventory and item frames, while the orchestration rolls allow players to summon specific music tracks from the Dawntrail soundtrack.
Strategic Priorities: The Best Use of Your Currency
With a vast array of items available, prioritizing purchases is essential. The most strategic use of Bicolor Gemstones in Dawntrail involves a tiered approach based on exclusivity and utility.
Tier 1: The Turali Bicolor Gemstone Voucher
The Turali Bicolor Gemstone Voucher is widely considered the best immediate investment. These vouchers can be collected and redeemed. Specifically, players can collect 500 of these vouchers and exchange them with Edelina in Mor Dhona for the Ty'aitya mount. This mount is a high-value cosmetic reward that is not obtainable through any other means, making the voucher a critical accumulation target. The voucher costs 100 Bicolor Gemstones per unit in both Solution Nine and Tuliyollal.
Tier 2: Exclusive Minions and Vanity Items
Once the Ty'aitya mount is secured, the next priority is the exclusive minions. These small creatures follow the player and are purely cosmetic, yet they are highly sought after for their uniqueness. - The Ilyikty'i Minion: Available at Rank 4 in Yak T'el for 700 gems. - The Alpaca Cria Minion: Available at Rank 4 in Urqopacha for 700 gems. These minions are often limited to specific zones and ranks, making them a perfect use of currency that cannot be replaced by the market board.
Tier 3: Framing Kits
Framer's Kits are essential for players who wish to customize the appearance of their inventory items. The Dawntrail expansion offers specific kits that are unique to this expansion's aesthetic: - Bright Solution Framer's Kit (600 gems) - Dark Solution Framer's Kit (600 gems) - Golden Dawn Framer's Kit (600 gems) - Crimson Dawn Framer's Kit (600 gems) These kits allow players to apply a specific visual theme to their inventory, a feature that is not obtainable through other currencies like Gil or Tomestones. The "Bright" and "Dark" kits in Solution Nine, and the "Golden" and "Crimson" kits in Tuliyollal, represent the pinnacle of vanity customization for the expansion.
Tier 4: Orchestration Rolls
Orchestration Rolls allow players to play specific music tracks within the game. The Dawntrail expansion has introduced new tracks that are highly valued by the community. - Windswept Echoes (Urqopacha, 450 gems) - Of Glittering Wings (Kozama'uka, 450 gems) - Emerald Under Sapphire (Yak T'el, 450 gems) - Ceruleum Smoke At High Noon (Shaaloani, 450 gems) - Bygone Serenity (Living Memory, 450 gems) - Starless Night (Solution Nine, 450 gems) - Morrow's Might (Tuliyollal, 450 gems) - Flash In the Dark (Heritage Found, 450 gems)
These rolls provide a musical experience unique to the expansion, enhancing the role-playing aspect of the game.
Tier 5: Crafting Materials and Market Value
For players focused on crafting or economic gain, lower-rank items are the most efficient choice. These items include raw materials like skins, hides, and fruits. While the individual cost is low (3 gems), they can be sold on the Market Board for Gil, effectively converting Bicolor Gemstones into the standard in-game currency. - Silver Lobo Hide (Urqopacha, 3 gems) - Hammerhead Crocodile Skin (Kozama'uka, 3 gems) - Gomphotherium Skin (Heritage Found, 3 gems) - Gargantua Hide (Living Memory, 3 gems)
This strategy is particularly useful for players who have exhausted their vanity purchases and wish to convert their accumulated gems into liquid assets.
The Economic and Strategic Context
The Dawntrail expansion has discontinued the Tomestones of Comedy and Causality, which were previously used in Shadowbringers and Endwalker. This shift places Bicolor Gemstones as the primary currency for vanity and vanity-like items in the current expansion. The economy of Bicolor Gemstones in Dawntrail is tightly regulated by the Shared FATE system, ensuring that high-value items are only accessible to dedicated players.
It is crucial to note that while the currency is a "premium" currency in the sense that it is hard to earn, it is not a "microtransaction" currency. It is earned solely through gameplay. The transition from Tomestones to Bicolor Gemstones marks a shift in how Square Enix rewards player engagement. The system is designed to encourage full exploration of the new map.
The "Shared FATE" mechanic means that players do not need to solo every FATE; they can join other players, and the progress is shared. This fosters community interaction. However, the requirement to reach Rank 4 in every zone to unlock the central hubs (Solution Nine and Tuliyollal) sets a high bar for completionists.
The "Emergency Fallback" logic of the game also applies here: if a player cannot earn the currency through FATEs, they can still purchase Bicolor Gemstones directly or find alternative ways to earn them, but the FATE system is the intended path. The "Shared FATE" log is the primary tool for tracking this progress.
Conclusion
The Bicolor Gemstone system in Final Fantasy XIV's Dawntrail expansion represents a sophisticated integration of gameplay, progression, and commerce. By tying the currency to the completion of Shared FATEs, the game ensures that the most exclusive rewards—such as the Ty'aitya mount, unique minions, and specific framing kits—are reserved for players who have fully engaged with the new content. The system rewards consistency and exploration.
For players asking "where do you spend gemstones in FF14," the answer is multifaceted. It involves navigating the specific regional traders in Urqopacha, Kozama'uka, Yak T'el, Shaaloani, Heritage Found, and Living Memory to unlock high-rank items. Once the rank threshold is met in all zones, the central hubs of Solution Nine and Tuliyollal open, offering the most prestigious items: the Turali Bicolor Gemstone Vouchers for the Ty'aitya mount, the four Framer's Kits, and the exclusive Orchestration Rolls.
The strategic hierarchy is clear: secure the vouchers for the mount first, then target the exclusive minions and framing kits, and finally, utilize the currency for crafting materials or orchestration rolls. This system not only monetizes the player's time but also creates a rich ecosystem of rewards that define the aesthetic and functional experience of the Dawntrail expansion. Whether collecting rare minions, customizing inventory frames, or equipping the exclusive Ty'aitya mount, the Bicolor Gemstone economy provides a structured and rewarding path for every type of player.