[johnarryn]

In very general terms, it has been my experience that having high-level construction is very important for the end game. Building equipment for SC's, forging unique magical items... these are important. Certain specific items, such as The Chalice, Sceptre of Dark Regency and others contribute to late-game tactics like Tartarian Summoning. Other, such as The Sword of Auregelmer, are generally just good items to have.

A healthy gem income is useful... in such a large game, I wouldn't focus on trying to get the gem globals... too much competition... focus on site-searching and diversifying your magic.