Rubium mining is one of the most efficient low-effort money-making methods currently available in Old School RuneScape. Whether you’re aiming for consistent profit or a more relaxed AFK experience, this activity offers strong returns with relatively modest requirements, making it a compelling alternative for players who might otherwise look to buy OSRS gold. This guide walks through everything you need to get started and optimize your efficiency.

To begin, you’ll need level 60 Sailing, access to your player-owned boat, and at least level 48 Mining. If you plan to use the more AFK-focused method, you’ll need level 68 Mining instead. Required tools include a pickaxe, chisel, hammer, and one rope. Lower-level players should also consider bringing an anti-dragon shield and a small amount of food due to nearby hostile creatures.

Getting There

Start by opening your spellbook and using the Minigame Teleport to travel to Pest Control. Once you arrive, head northwest toward the dock. From there, summon and board your boat, then sail south to Chard Island.

Upon reaching the island, move northwest toward the dungeon icon. If this is your first visit, use your rope on the hole to create permanent access. After that, climb down and proceed southeast toward the mining area. Be prepared to pass several aggressive red and black dragons along the way-this is where basic defensive gear helps.

Rubium Rocks (Semi-AFK Method)

Rubium rocks are the more active of the two mining options but still relatively relaxed. Each mining attempt lasts between 5 and 20 seconds, making it semi-AFK. Every successful swing grants 30 Mining XP and one rubium splinter, which is stackable.

At current market rates, rubium splinters are highly valuable due to their role in a new AFK smithing method. Prices have shown volatility (e.g., rising from 400 to 600 coins), but demand remains strong.

Expected rates:

· At level 48 Mining: ~39,000 XP/hour and ~1,300 splinters

· At level 99 Mining: ~65,000 XP/hour and ~2,100 splinters

This translates to approximately 600K to 1.2M GP per hour, making it competitive with-and often superior to-the Motherlode Mine in terms of profit.

Rubium Deposits (Fully AFK Method)

For players who prioritize minimal input, rubium deposits are the better choice. These large rocks require level 68 Mining and allow for AFK sessions lasting over four minutes.

Each successful swing yields 10 to 100 Mining XP and one rubium geode. While the experience rates are significantly lower, the trade-off is near-complete inactivity.

Expected rates:

· At level 68 Mining: ~5,000 XP/hour

· At level 99 Mining: ~10,000 XP/hour

Geodes must be manually opened using a hammer and chisel, producing rubium splinters. This step cannot be automated, but it’s straightforward.

You can expect 1,100 to 2,200 splinters per hour, resulting in the same 600K to 1.2M GP/hour range as rubium rocks-just with far less attention required.

Choosing the Right Method

The decision between rocks and deposits comes down to your priorities:

· Choose rubium rocks if you want better Mining XP and don’t mind occasional clicks.

· Choose rubium deposits if you prefer extended AFK periods with minimal interaction.

Both methods are viable and profitable, which is rare for low-intensity content.

Final Notes

Rubium splinters are tied to a newer smithing method, which underpins their strong and likely stable demand. While prices may fluctuate in the short term, the utility of splinters suggests long-term value, making them comparable to other reliable profit sources like cheap RS gold in terms of consistency and appeal. Given the low requirements, high profitability, and flexible playstyle options, rubium mining stands out as one of the most accessible and rewarding activities currently available. If you’re looking for a reliable way to generate gold without high mechanical complexity, this is an opportunity worth taking advantage of.