Alas, like you I've only seen texture-improvement mods, though frankly I don't they'd benefit this game much; it looks great at ultra settings. (Now with Oblivion I use hi-res texture mods, and they make a big difference.)
I usually can't be bothered with using the save/reload tactic for mining, so by the end of the game if I don't have level 10 enchantments Larian gets the blame.
According to in-game text, the Black Ring originate in a desert so that's why they have breathing filters. Probably also helps with the poison they like spreading around.
I agree with you on vendor coin limits; if they're going to go that route might as well force us to carry a torch or wander in darkness, eat food or starve, and relieve ourselves or suffer a dirty underwear debuff.
Ah well, have to post in suggestion threads and bug reports, and hope for the best.
