Please explain augmenting for a newbie?

[Fab4rule-1638]

Hi all!

I don’t know what augmenting is or what its purpose is, so if someone could clue me in, I would be most appreciated. I’ve done a little searching on this site and after reading several of the items the search returned, I gave up and decided to ask for help.

I understand the materials needed (self explanatory via Kanai’s cube recipe) but I don’t understand what augmenting a legendary item does. I’m asking so I can “check off” that task in the Conqueror journey section.

Thanks in advance and hope everyone is doing well!!

Mike

[Maskraider-3992]

The game guide briefly explains the Caldesann’s Despair recipe:
Mind the words “Ancient”, “Flawless Royal gem”, “Legendary Gem of Rank …”

https://us.diablo3.com/en/game/guide/items/kanais-cube#recipes

Augment Ancient or Primal Ancient Item

Caldesann’s Despair

Enchants an Ancient or Primal Ancient Legendary or Set item with additional attribute points.
The resulting attribute depends on the gem color used.
Using this recipe with
3 Flawless Royal Rubies will augment an item with Strength,
3 Flawless Royal Topazes will add Intelligence,
3 Flawless Royal Emeralds will add Dexterity, and
3 Flawless Royal Amethysts will add Vitality.

To augment an Ancient or Primal Ancient weapon, a Legendary Gem of Rank 30 or higher is required. Augmenting an Ancient or Primal Ancient Ring or Amulet requires a Legendary Gem of Rank 40 or higher, while augmenting an Ancient or Primal Ancient piece of armor requires a Legendary Gem of Rank 50 or higher. The higher the rank of the Legendary Gem used, the more attribute points will be added to your item.

I have further explanation here.

[homerjnick-2794]

Hi Mike,

High level summary…it adds mainstat to Ancient/Primal gear…more mainstat is more damage and more defense basically.

You use a Legendary Gem and whatever rank it is you multiply by 5 and then that is the mainstat added.

So Rank 50 LG add 250 dex, str, int etc to an Ancient item depending on which of the 3 flawless gems you use.

[Fab4rule-1638]

Maskraider & homerjnick ~

Thanks so much for the help!!

Mike