I do like the idea to use gems to skip Quests. Throughout some of the comments we talked and debated about the use of gems in this idea. I don't have a problems with using Gems to skip over Quests though or to receive a new one. SC would definitely be more apt to include and implement something that can use gems as well.
I'm not a fan of using gems to have a better chance at a sexier reward though, but wouldn't be against it entirely. There is a lot of potential for SC to make more money with this idea, you are right! :)

