I learned Mining up to Mining II, Refining, and Alchemy up to Alchemy II. I made a dozen combinations of elements and then quit grinding rocks because I couldn't really see any benefit, so now I'm just selling rocks I mine.
What am I missing? What great things come of Refining and Alchemy? Or what short-term benefits are there in grinding for currants rather than selling rocks for currants? So far I'm only vendoring, and I'm low enough level to need the currants.