Our WoW Cataclysm Classic Archaeology guide covers all the details you want to know about the brand-new profession introduced within this expansion. From learning about fragments and keystones to finding out what rewards await you. We have described all this and more within the following pages. Prepare to dig out valuable artifacts and hidden treasures as we are about to begin!
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Cataclysm Classic Dig Sites
First of all, let’s get acquainted with the main profession’s mechanics. Those who wish to master Archaeology should learn about Cataclysm Classic dig sites above all else. They can be found on your map marked with a shovel sign. When exploring the in-game continents, you can find four of these marks in each of them.
When you arrive at one of these dig sites, your task is to look for fragments and keystones. Everything you find is yours to keep. However, be prepared that other players will also search through those areas. Depending on how proficient you are in Archaeology, you can excavate items in the following zones:
Archaeology Level | Location |
1-299 | Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor |
300 | Outland |
375 | Northrend |
450 | Cataclysm Endgame Zones |
Also, remember that dig sites do not change their locations. If you have managed to find one, it will stay there forever. This allows you to return to the same place several times to excavate it again.
Fragments
Fragments are what the Archaeology profession revolves around. Players look for fragments to turn them into artifacts later on. They can be of different types, and it is essential to reach a specific level in Archeology before you can excavate them.
Fragment Type | Archaeology Level | Locations |
Dwarf | 1 | Eastern Kingdoms, Kalimdor |
Fossil | 1 | Eastern Kingdoms, Kalimdor |
Night Elf | 1 | Kalimdor, Northrend, Eastern Kingdoms |
Troll | 1 | Eastern Kingdoms, Northrend, Kalimdor |
Draenei | 300 | Outland |
Orc | 300 | Outland |
Nerubian | 375 | Northrend, Eastern Kingdoms |
Vrykul | 375 | Northrend |
Tol’vir | 450 | Uldum |
As you can see from the table above, these fragments are linked to specific races or civilizations. Also, depending on how proficient you are in Archaeology, they can only be found within certain locations. The better you know this profession, the rarer fragments you find. BLOG20
Surveying
Moving on with our Cataclysm Classic Archaeology overview, surveying describes the process of looking for fragments we have just talked about. To start it, use the Survey ability you can find within your professions tab. Once it is active, you will see a sort of compass guiding you towards the buried fragments.
Note: You can only activate Survey while in the dig site. The latter is marked on your map with the red line.
Depending on how close you are to the next fragment, the tool emits light of different colors:
- Red: 80 yards or more
- Yellow: 40-80 yards
- Green: Under 40 yards
Just like with all tools, relying on it completely is not recommended. By activating Survey, you can only see general directions you need to head to. After that, you need to search through the shown location thoroughly yourself.
Once you find a fragment, it will be marked on your map by a yellow dot. It will also emit a golden gleam, attracting your attention. In case you do not pick it up straight away, you risk losing a fragment. After you gather three fragments at a dig site, it will be exhausted. You will notice it disappear from your map, only to be replaced by a fresh site elsewhere on the same continent.
Keystones
Keystones greatly increase your artifact collection speed. Each keystone you discover acts as the equivalent of 12 fragments of the same type. While you can use fragments at any excavation site, keystones have a more specific purpose. Each artifact can accommodate only 1-3 keystones, demanding a strategic approach to their use. Despite their potency, collecting fragments remains crucial for completing artifacts.
In the table below, you can see what keystones are available and what type of artifact they belong to:
Keystone | Artifact Type |
Draenei Tome | Draenei |
Dwarf Rune Stone | Dwarf |
Highborne Scroll | Night Elf |
Nerubian Obelisk | Nerubian |
Orc Blood Text | Orc |
Tol'vir Hieroglyphic | Tol’vir |
Troll Tablet | Troll |
Vrykul Rune Stick | Vrykul |
Note: Players can buy and sell keystones at the Auction House.
Archaeology Leveling Guide
Now, let’s get to our Archaeology leveling guide to find out how you can master this profession. First of all, you can start training Archaeology after you hit level 20 or higher. This is what makes this profession different from others. However, like other professions in Cataclysm, you can learn all levels of Archaeology from any trainer. Advancing to the next tier requires training every 75 levels of skill attained.
Here are all the methods you can use to level up Archaeology in WoW Cataclysm Classic:
- 1 point for digging up a fragment (level 1-50 only)
- 5 points for solving a common artifact
- 15 points for solving a rare artifact
When you are only starting out, the best way to level Archaeology in WoW Cataclysm Classic is to hunt for as many fragments as possible. Once you become more proficient, you will have no other methods of leveling the profession other than solving artifacts.
In the table below, you can see what your Cataclysm Classic Archaeology leveling process looks like:
Archaeology Level | Character Level | Archaeology Skill Name | Dig Sites | Fragment Types |
76-150 | 20 | Journeyman Archaeology | Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor | Dwarf, Fossil, Night Elf, Troll |
151-225 | 20 | Expert Archaeology | Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor | Dwarf, Fossil, Night Elf, Troll |
226-300 | 35 | Artisan Archaeology | Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor | Dwarf, Fossil, Night Elf, Troll |
301-375 | 50 | Master Archaeology | Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor, Outland | Dwarf, Fossil, Night Elf, Troll, Draenei, Orc |
376-450 | 65 | Grand Master Archaeology | Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor, Outland, Northrend | Dwarf, Fossil, Night Elf, Troll, Draenei, Orc, Nerubian, Vrykul |
451-525 | 75 | Illustrious Grand Master Archaeology | Eastern Kingdoms and Kalimdor, Outland, Northrend, Cataclysm zones | Dwarf, Fossil, Night Elf, Troll, Draenei, Orc, Nerubian, Vrykul, Tol’vir |
While leveling Archaeology, you might want to get your hands on the Professor title. The latter is awarded for finding 20 rare artifacts. This requires too much time and tedious grinding. However, you can skip this if you Buy Professor Title Boost at SkyCoach.
Archaeology Max Level in Cataclysm Classic
Archaeology max level in Cataclysm Classic is capped at 525. Upon reaching this threshold, you can excavate artifacts from all the zones we mentioned earlier in our guide. Since this is the maximum level achievable, you will not gain any skill ranks at this point and in the future. BLOG20
Archaeology Trainers
Moving on, we have prepared a list of Archaeology trainers you should look for in Cataclysm Classic. These NPCs can help you master the profession further and are found in the following locations:
Faction | Trainer | Location | Coordinates |
Neutral | Boduro the Seeker | Shattrath City, Lower City | (62.5, 70.2) |
Neutral | Dariness the Learned | Dalaran, The Legerdemain Lounge | (48.5, 38.6) |
Alliance | Diya | The Exodar, The Vault of Lights | (34.6, 66.8) |
Alliance | Doktor Professor Ironpants | Ironforge, Hall of Explorers | (75.6, 11.6) |
Alliance | Hammon the Jaded | Darnassus, The Temple of the Moon | (43.2, 83.6) |
Alliance | Harrison Jones | Stormwind City, Stormwind Keep | (85.6, 25.8) |
Horde | Adam Hossack | Undercity, Magic Quarter | (76.0, 36.4) |
Horde | Belloc Brightblade | Orgrimmar, Grommash Hold | (49.0, 79.6) |
Horde | Elynara | Silvermoon City, The Royal Exchange | (81.6, 63.8) |
Horde | Otoh Greyhide | Thunder Bluff, Elder Rise | (75.8, 28.0) |
As for other professions, you can use our Professions Kit service to progress to the required level. We guarantee the fastest results and the best market price you can find.
Archaeology Best Race in Cataclysm Classic
Dwarves are by far Archaeology best race you can opt for in Cataclysm Classic. The main reason for this is the Explorer racial it has. It grants two notable abilities that help a lot if you specialize in this profession:
- Increased Fragment Loot: Dwarves gain extra fragments with each successful dig. This seemingly small perk results in a substantial increase in overall fragment acquisition rates, speeding up the journey towards completing coveted artifacts.
- Enhanced Survey Speed: This unique ability allows them to conduct surveys at a much faster pace, enabling them to uncover hidden items in the most unexpected of locations with ease.
If you already have a character of a different race, that’s not a problem. With our Powerleveling Service, you can easily level up your alt all the way up to level 85. Create your own Dwarf and explore Azeroth, which is full of artifacts!
Artifact Crafting
The final goal every archaeologist strives for lies in artifact crafting. These creations, resulting from meticulous research, can require anywhere from 25 to 150 fragments to complete, with the potential to store 0 to 3 keystones. Notably, keystones are optional in the crafting process; any leftovers from their use will seamlessly transition to your next research project.
Upon amassing sufficient fragments for a specific artifact, a simple press of the "Solve" button completes the research project, transforming the fragments into tangible treasures. Fear not any surplus fragments, for they automatically fuel your next research endeavor, ensuring continuous progress in your archaeological pursuits.
Archaeology presents no choice in research projects. Thus, you may find yourself repeatedly engaging in the same research for a particular race before attaining the desired artifact.
Artifact Types
As of right now, you can find the following artifact types available in Cataclysm Classic:
- Common Artifacts: These items are often regarded as of inferior quality and may lack practical value.
- Rare Artifacts: Conversely, these are the elusive treasures you have been searching for. Ranging from Rare to Epic quality, they offer a plethora of intriguing rewards. From companion pets and majestic mounts to charming toys, formidable armor sets, and powerful weapons, Cataclysm's rare archaeological finds promise a diverse array of valuable discoveries.
Below, you can see an example of a rare artifact called Voodoo Figurine.
Once again, if you wish to get your hands on specific items, we highly recommend using our service we mentioned earlier.
Archaeology Rewards in Cataclysm Classic
The following part of the article provides a complete list of Archaeology rewards Cataclysm Classic you can obtain:
Race | Common Artifacts | Rare Artifacts | Artifact Name | Fragments | Keystone | Archaeology Level |
Dwarf | 27 | 4 | Chalice of the Mountain Kings | 100 | 3 | 150 |
Clockwork Gnome | 100 | 3 | 225 | |||
The Innkeeper's Daughter | 150 | 3 | 150 | |||
Staff of Sorcerer-Thane Thaurissan | 150 | 3 | 450 | |||
Night Elf | 18 | 7 | Druid and Priest Statue Set | 100 | 3 | 150 |
Highborne Soul Mirror | 100 | 3 | 150 | |||
Kaldorei Wind Chimes | 98 | 3 | 250 | |||
Bones of Transformation | 150 | 3 | 450 | |||
Queen Azshara's Dressing Gown | 100 | 3 | 450 | |||
Tyrande's Favorite Doll | 150 | 3 | 450 | |||
Wisp Amulet | 150 | 3 | 525 | |||
Fossil | 12 | 2 | Fossilized Hatchling | 85 | 0 | 75 |
Fossilized Raptor | 100 | 0 | 150 | |||
Draenei | 8 | 2 | Arrival of the Naaru | 124 | 3 | 300 |
The Last Relic of Argus | 130 | 3 | 300 | |||
Troll | 14 | 1 | Zin'rokh, Destroyer of Worlds | 150 | 3 | 450 |
Nerubian | 7 | 2 | Blessing of the Old God | 140 | 3 | 375 |
Puzzle Box of Yogg-Saron | 140 | 3 | 375 | |||
Orc | 9 | 1 | Headdress of the First Shaman | 130 | 3 | 300 |
Vrykul | 5 | 1 | Nifflevar Bearded Axe | 130 | 3 | 375 |
Tol’vir | 7 | 6 | Canopic Jar | 150 | 3 | 450 |
Crawling Claw | 150 | 3 | 450 | |||
Pendant of the Scarab Storm | 150 | 3 | 450 | |||
Ring of the Boy Emperor | 150 | 3 | 450 | |||
Scepter of Azj'Aqir | 150 | 3 | 450 | |||
Scimitar of the Sirocco | 150 | 3 | 450 | |||
Staff of Ammunae | 150 | 3 | 450 |
Among the most coveted rewards are mounts, pets, as well as rares.
Archaeology Achievements in Cataclysm Classic
Just like with any profession, you can complete a range of Archaeology achievements Cataclysm Classic to show that you are a true master:
- Journeyman in Archaeology
- Expert in Archaeology
- Artisan in Archaeology
- Master Archaeologist
- Grand Master in Archaeology
- Illustrious Grand Master in Archaeology
- Diggerest
- Digger
- I Had It in My Hand – Title: Assistant Professor
- What was Briefly Yours is Now Mine – Title: Associate Professor
- It Belongs in a Museum! – Title: Professor
- It's Always in the Last Place You Look
- Seven Scepters
- Tragedy in Three Acts
- Blue Streak
- The Harder they Fall
- Kings Under the Mountain
- The Boy Who Would be King
We have already talked about the Professor title above. You get it by completing It Belongs in a Museum! achievement. To get it, a ton of dedication is required. So, if you do not wish to spend this much time, go ahead and use our service instead. BLOG20
Archaeology Dungeon Quests in Cataclysm Classic
Upon reaching level 425, you get access to a range of Archaeology dungeon quests Cataclysm Classic. They are available only within several high-level dungeons. These quests necessitate the submission of a particular keystone. In exchange, they bestow upon your party a distinctive buff throughout the duration of the dungeon.
Location | Quest | Keystone | Buff |
Blackrock Caverns | Dark Iron Contingency Plan | Dwarf Rune Stone | Dark Iron Contingency Plan |
Halls of Origination | Map of the Architects | Tol'vir Hieroglyphic | Map of the Architects |
The Vortex Pinnacle | Whispers of the Djinn | Tol'vir Hieroglyphic | Whisper of the Djinn |
Lost City of the Tol’vir | Tol'vir Heiroglyphics | Tol'vir Hieroglyphic | Tol'vir Secrets |
The Stonecore | Might of the Earthen | Dwarf Rune Stone | Might of the Earthen |
Grim Batol | Vengeance of the Wildhammer | Dwarf Rune Stone | Vengeance of the Wildhammer |
Throne of the Tides | Waters of Elune | Highborne Scroll | Waters of Elune |
Zul’Gurub | Zul'Gurub Voodoo | Troll Tablet | Call o' da Raptor |
Zul’Aman | Zul'Aman Voodoo | Troll Tablet | Amani Power |
Remember that these buffs stay active only when you are in a dungeon. They do not disappear if you die. If you leave an instance, it fades away but will be active again if you return.
Conclusion
As we are summing up our Archaeology guide for Cataclysm Classic, we hope you have found what you have come here for. We have covered all the aspects you wanted to know about this profession. From describing its main mechanics like fragments, surveying, and keystones to explaining how to level it up. Do not miss an opportunity to tackle a brand-new profession introduced within this expansion. We hope you discover the rarest artifact, heroes. Good luck and we will see you in Azeroth!
F.A.Q.
What is Archaeology good for in Cataclysm Classic?
By learning Archaeology, you can discover a variety of historical artifacts of different types.
Where can I find Archaeology in Cataclysm Classic?
There are 4 dig sites per continent you can explore to find artifacts and keystones. By collecting them, you can create an artifact in the long run.
How do you level Archaeology in Cataclysm Classic?
Here is how you can level up Archaeology in Cataclysm Classic:
- 1 point for digging up a fragment (available only until level 50)
- 5 points for solving a common artifact
- 15 points for solving a rare artifact
How do you learn Archaeology in Cataclysm Classic?
You can find an Archaeology trainer in every major city. These NPCs can help you master the profession. You can move from one tier to another every 75 levels.
Is Archaeology profitable in Cataclysm Classic?
If you are dedicated to this profession and a bit lucky, you can get a variety of rare items. By selling them to other players, you can make a profit.
What is Archaeology max level in Cataclysm Classic?
The maximum level you can reach in Archaeology is 525.