How to Get Alchemy Shards in Path of Exile: A Comprehensive Guide
Path of Exile is an action-packed role-playing game with a complex crafting system that can seem daunting for new players. One of the most important resources in this game is Alchemy Shards, which are used to augment gear and items to enhance their stats. In this article, we’ll show you how to get Alchemy Shards in Path of Exile and how to use them effectively.
What are Alchemy Shards?
Before we dive into the ways to get Alchemy Shards, let’s first understand what they are and how they work. Alchemy Shards are one of the many currency items in Path of Exile that are used to upgrade equipment. They are primarily used to reforge rare items with random modifiers or to add a new modifier to a magic (blue) item.
One Alchemy Shard is equivalent to 20 Wisdom Scrolls, making them a valuable resource in the game. Therefore, understanding how to obtain them is crucial for any Path of Exile player.
How to Get Alchemy Shards
There are several ways to get Alchemy Shards in Path of Exile, and we’ll go over each in detail in this section.
Method 1: Vendor Recipes
One of the most straightforward ways to get Alchemy Shards is through vendor recipes. This method involves selling a set of specific items to a vendor in exchange for Alchemy Shards.
Here’s a list of items you need to sell to a vendor to get Alchemy Shards:
- Full rare set of equipment (one item of each type, i.e., helmet, gloves, boots, body armor, amulet, belt, two rings) – 1 Alchemy Shard
- Full set of unidentified rare equipment – 2 Alchemy Shards
- 20x Scrolls of Wisdom – 1 Alchemy Shard
By saving up your rare items and Scrolls of Wisdom, you can easily trade them in for Alchemy Shards to use for crafting or purchasing items from other players.
Method 2: Dismantling Rare Items
Another way to get Alchemy Shards is by dismantling rare items. When you dismantle a rare item, you’ll get a number of shards equal to the number of mods the item has.
For example, if a rare item has four mods, you’ll get four Alchemy Shards from dismantling it. This method is a great way to get extra shards while also clearing out inventory space.
Method 3: Farming
Farming is the most involved method for getting Alchemy Shards, but it’s also the most efficient. This method involves farming certain areas or bosses in the game to acquire rare items that can be used in vendor recipes or dismantled for Alchemy Shards.
Here are some of the best areas to farm for rare items:
- Aqueducts in Act 4
- Lunaris Temple in Act 3
- Fellshrine Ruins in Act 2
- The Library in Act 3
By repeatedly running these areas and killing mobs, you’ll have a chance to find rare items that can be used to obtain Alchemy Shards through vendor recipes or dismantling.
Tips for Using Alchemy Shards
Now that you know how to obtain Alchemy Shards, here are some tips for using them effectively:
- Prioritize using them on rare items with desirable stats.
- Consider using them on a magic item with a good base and adding a new mod to create a powerful item.
- Don’t waste Alchemy Shards on low-level gear that will be quickly replaced.
- Be patient and use Alchemy Shards strategically.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can you use Alchemy Shards on unique items?
Yes, you can use Alchemy Shards on unique items, but they will only reroll new stats within the item’s original predetermined stat pool.
Q: How do I know which rare items to keep for vendor recipes?
Look for rare items with good base stats (i.e., high armor or energy shield ratings) or those with multiple desirable mods.
Q: Should I always use Alchemy Shards on rare items?
No, only use Alchemy Shards on rare items with good base stats or potentially good modifiers.
Conclusion
Alchemy Shards are an important resource in Path of Exile that can greatly enhance the power of your gear. Whether you’re using vendor recipes or farming for rare items, knowing how to obtain Alchemy Shards efficiently can make a significant difference in your gameplay experience.
Remember to use Alchemy Shards wisely and prioritize using them on high-quality gear that will last you through multiple levels. By following the tips outlined in this guide, you’ll be well on your way to mastering the art of crafting in Path of Exile.