I prospected a big load of ore (EDIT: a couple hundred) and did not get a single gem. NOTHING but handfuls of pebbles. Without base gems, I can’t advance my JC past 25. The Wowhead guide does not address this specific problem. Can anyone offer any advice?
This seems like a bug and you should report it as such.
I don’t know if there is a work around within the profession, but unless there is something driving you to prospect your own ore I recommend simply purchasing the necessary gems off the AH for now. At 1-6g each, the costs are pretty inexpensive.