I think the Geode cards are balanced by low ore cost in the shop.
I consider Scorium Geode generally a higher buy than Helmet for this reason.
I've had poor results with Quartz due to the blocked draws.
I've won (on Adventure) with pumping Scorium Quartz as my main strategy but it felt more like I was winning despite the Quartz than because of it.
I've tried Cave Cat and never won with it. I think generally anything that costs 2+ has to be pretty bonkers to be viable. Cat can get large but if you're pumping your deck full of random junk to make it happen then you draw the Cat less often.
I think Lens & Prospect pretty much cover upgrades & I don't buy any of the other upgraders unless I have some unusual build that really needs them.