Quote Originally Posted by Zylx View Post
Obviously each class has its uses and comparing classes vs jewels/gems is like comparing apples to oranges. Say you actually want a mage to run with you, and then the same scenario i previously described happens.

Class balance is an issue in the class structure. Thus it can be fixed by tweaking something in the class (perhaps the new skill mastery system coming up would help?). This kind of fix shouldn't be substituted by gem augmentation, because gems dont overpower the whole class to be competitive with other classes, it only overpowers a select few of the class and it ruins the balance within the class.
Wouldn't that same person pick a full noble jewel mage over a full weak/standard jewel mage? The cost and stat gap between the two is still substantial. I don't really see how this is apples to oranges. A gap is a gap.

I think you're better off making your case for PvP, where stacking eyes makes a huge difference and you can't use effigies to make up for lost crit.