MHW Large Elder Dragon Gem Sources And Efficient Farming Methods
The Large Elder Dragon Gem is one of the most sought-after crafting materials in Monster Hunter World: Iceborne, essential for creating high-tier Master Rank weapons and armor. Securing this elusive item requires a solid understanding of which monsters drop it and the most effective quest types to run. Hunters looking to optimize their gear progression can save significant time by adopting targeted farming strategies.
Primary Monsters That Drop Large Elder Dragon Gems
Unlike standard monster gems, the Large Elder Dragon Gem is a shared rare material dropped by specific Master Rank Elder Dragons. Target monsters include Teostra, Kushala Daora, Namielle, Blackveil Vaal Hazak, and Ruiner Nergigante. Hunters should note that certain monsters like Velkhana and Shara Ishvalda have unique gems instead and will not yield this particular item.
When hunting these eligible targets, breaking monster parts such as the head and severing the tail provides extra chances for carves and reward drops. Additionally, picking up shiny drops during combat offers a small bonus chance to grab a gem off the ground. Focusing on monsters you can defeat quickly and consistently will drastically increase your efficiency.
Farming Gold Reward Investigations
Investigation quests featuring Master Rank Elder Dragons represent the absolute best method for obtaining Large Elder Dragon Gems. Gold reward boxes in these investigations carry a significantly higher drop rate compared to standard quest completion rewards. Aim for investigations that feature multiple gold boxes to maximize your odds per hunt.
Non-tempered Elder Dragon investigations are often preferred over tempered versions because they can be completed much faster. Namielle investigations are particularly popular among players because Namielle does not dilute its special drop pool with separate mantles. Preparing specialized elemental loadouts ensures rapid clear times during these investigation loops.
Utilizing Event Quests and Melding Options
For hunters who lack high-reward investigations, specific Master Rank Event Quests offer excellent alternative farming grounds. Event quests like "We Three Kings" feature multiple Elder Dragons in a single arena and offer heightened quest reward rates. High-level event quests such as "Day of Ruin" also allow endgame players to farm rare decorations alongside gem drops.
If RNG proves stubborn after repeated hunts, players can utilize the Steamworks and Weekly Bounties to earn Celestial Wyverian Prints. These rare prints can be taken to the Elder Melder in Astera or Seliana to guarantee a Large Elder Dragon Gem instantly. Combining active investigation farming with weekly Melder exchanges provides the most reliable path to finishing your Master Rank builds.