I don't think we mine the ore, I don't chip at it like some WoW toon. I part the bushes or climb into a cubby, examine the quality, then reference the find against the holdings. Maybe the game should show this better.
This is not a medieval fantasy; this fantasy is medieval, that is, here in Thedas elfroot is life. Sure you can say, fetch me elfroot, but it is usually better in many ways to secure my own health and not trust my larder stocks to strangers, underlings, and rivals.
I am a needed field agent, rather, I am part of a team of combat experts. I have a unique and powerful station, yes, but I am not royal except as anyone is who points the sword. Why not call me a well meaning thug, or benevolent dictator, or whatever else occasions your view.
Game wise, I've used feints and cheats for more stuff and they don't necessarily make the fun last. The gray items are always needed if you want to like the blue items. I love that unexpected drop after a bit of time, I don't want Dagna to give me a new sword every time I level. That would suck.
The OP's idea is fine, it is just not this game, and I am sure this discussion was held at Bioware years ago
(i dont work for them)