With the launch of WoW Cataclysm Classic, players have a wealth of new content to explore, including unique mounts, pets, and rare items. Among the most sought-after mounts is the Sandstone Drake, a transformation mount that allows the player to not just ride a dragon but to become one. Unlike most mounts in World of Warcraft, the Sandstone Drake is crafted, not found, and requires mastery in both Archaeology and Alchemy. This guide will walk you through the steps to craft the Vial of the Sands, the key to unlocking the Sandstone Drake.

Step 1: Archaeology and the Canopic Jar

To begin your journey toward obtaining the Sandstone Drake, you must first reach the highest level of the Archaeology profession—Illustrious Grand Master. Only at this level can you access Tol'vir digsites in Uldum, the Cataclysm zone inspired by ancient Egyptian aesthetics, which is home to the elusive Canopic Jar.

Why Uldum?

Tol'vir digsites are unique to Uldum, a zone designed for characters level 83 and above. The Canopic Jar is a common-quality artifact you can uncover at these digsites. Although most Canopic Jars contain the preserved organs of an ancient emperor, there is a rare chance that one might hold the recipe for the Vial of the Sands. It's important to note that only characters who are both Illustrious Grand Master Alchemists and Archaeologists can learn and use this recipe.

Finding the Canopic Jar

The Canopic Jar is found by completing Tol'vir artifacts. Once you have unearthed enough fragments, you'll assemble these artifacts at random. While you can repeatedly find Canopic Jars, the chance of getting the Vial of the Sands recipe is extremely rare, making this a time-consuming endeavor. However, persistence pays off, and once you obtain the recipe, you're ready to move on to the next step.

Step 2: Alchemy and Gathering Ingredients

The Vial of the Sands is an alchemical concoction that requires a combination of rare and costly materials. To craft it, you need to be an Illustrious Grand Master Alchemist (Alchemy level 525). Below is a breakdown of the ingredients needed:

Pyrium-Laced Crystalline Vial: This is a unique reagent purchased from Yasmin, a vendor located in the Oasis of Vir'sar, Uldum. It costs 4,500 gold.

Sands of Time (x8): Also purchased from Yasmin, each Sands of Time costs 2,700 gold, for a total of 21,600 gold. These are essential components in the alchemical process.

Truegold (x12): Truegold is a rare material transmuted by Alchemists. To craft each Truegold bar, you need 3 Pyrium Bars, 10 Volatile Air, 10 Volatile Fire, and 10 Volatile Water. Transmutation Masters have an advantage here as they can perform this transmutation more frequently.

Flask of the Winds (x8): Crafted by Alchemists with a skill level of 525. Each flask requires 8 Volatile Life, 8 Whiptail, and 8 Azshara's Veil.

Flask of Titanic Strength (x8): Another flask crafted by high-level Alchemists. The recipe requires 8 Volatile Life, 8 Whiptail, and 8 Cinderbloom.

Deepstone Oil (x8): This oil is made from Albino Cavefish, which you can catch via the Fishing profession. Alchemists can then refine this into Deepstone Oil.

Step 3: Crafting the Vial of the Sands

Once you have gathered all the materials, head to your Alchemy Lab or any crafting station. Combine the ingredients to create the Vial of the Sands. This item is bind-on-pickup, meaning that only the Alchemist who crafts it can use it or sell it.

Step 4: Becoming the Sandstone Drake

Using the Vial of the Sands transforms your character into the Sandstone Drake, a massive, majestic dragon capable of carrying a passenger. Unlike other mounts, you don't simply summon the Sandstone Drake—you become it. This ability is account-wide, meaning all your characters can use it once it's unlocked. However, you'll need a Flight Master's License to use it as a flying mount in Azeroth.

Tips for Success

Prepare for a Long Grind: Finding the recipe for the Vial of the Sands is largely dependent on RNG (random number generation), so be prepared for a potentially lengthy grind in Uldum. Persistence is key.

Save Gold in Advance: The total cost for the required vendor items alone is around 26,100 gold. Add to this the cost of crafting materials and any additional items you might need, and the expenses quickly add up.

Consider Selling the Vial of the Sands: If you're an Alchemist and manage to craft multiple Vials of the Sands, selling them on the Auction House can be a lucrative venture. Prices vary by server but are generally high due to the rarity and desirability of the Sandstone Drake.

Conclusion

The Vial of the Sands and the Sandstone Drake represent one of the most unique and challenging mounts to obtain in WoW Cataclysm Classic. It's a testament to the dedication of both Alchemists and Archaeologists who seek it out. By following this guide, you'll be well on your way to mastering the process and flying high as your very own Sandstone Drake.