Researching vs Site Searching

[TwoBits]

I was just wondering what most people's priorities are in this regard, and why?

Does every mage you buy, barring an immediate war calling them to duty, go straight to research, or do once you pop Thaumaturgy 2/Evocation 2/Construction 3 (or 4 if you've got underwater access for Tiamat), you have every available and capable mage looking for magic sites (especially since the 3.08 patch has made that easier)?

I mean, if you rely on your mages heavily for battle assistance in all phases of the game, I guess research with your non combatant mages is a no-brainer.

But if you think you can get by in the early to mid game without them in the field, what's more useful? Race up to Conjuration/Construction 8 for the uniques, or find every last gem producing site in your empire right away, and get that gem income rolling in ASAP, even if you lag in the research department?

I'm interested to hear your opinions. Thanks!