Why does the everburning torch cost 110GP while the Ioun torch costs only 75GP?
Both prices taken from the PFSRD.
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When the Everburning Torch was priced for 3.0/3.5, it included not only the material component cost (50 gp), but the cost to hire a spellcaster to cast the spell as well (2nd level spell, min caster level 3, so 60gp.)
The Ioun Torch doesn't have the cost of a spellcaster casting the spell included, and charges 25gp for the dull grey ioun stone.
I suspect that the Ioun Torch should really cost 135gp, as the spellcaster would be charging for their service if they charge for it on everburning torches.
The presentation of the Ioun Torch is problematic all around. Being presented as a magic item suggests the whole behaves as a magic item, but both fluff and the (still too low even then) pricing suggests it behaves as a plain old continual flame spell cast on a minor magic item.
Having it presented as a magic item lets those who don't have continual flame on their spell lists -- such as, for example, alchemists -- still be able to make a magic floating glowing rock via Magical Artisan + Craft Wondrous Item. And then there's the bizarre legacy logic problem where those with craft arms and armor are able to put the "and it glows!" property onto swords for free.
The casters charging for every spellcasting service is a bit of a legacy problem as well. IMHO, the same way that clerics sell holy water at the cost of the component, wizards guilds should sell everburning torches at the cost of the component. Makes for good PR and quickly fixes the pricing discrepancy.
But if everything is sold at cost, why make anything to sell? You would make no money by doing so....
But if everything is sold at cost, why make anything to sell? You would make no money by doing so....
Not everything, just the everburning torches, or possibly other low-level, long-duration utility spells.
You don't make any money charging for an everburning torch, but you establish a reputation for good work --- and anyone with enough money lying around for such a gadget will probably have a use for other, more profitable spells later on. You also are supporting the kind of adventurers that will help keep the dangerous monster population down, which is probably a good think if you don't want to have your studied interrupted every month or so by a band of rampaging CR1 critters.