I think you will find a variety of confusing responses to questions posed in such a manner from any lds who feel up to answering.
For instance, yes, it is “historically” taught (or “aknowledged” is more accurate) that Smith utilized his “peepstone” within a hat; however, you can expect denials, because there were no “golden
scrolls”, but rather “plates” made of a variety of metals.
I suggest you go to the library and see what their scriptures have to say about those things you are curious about first, as discussing them here without the necessary preparation, you will neve be led to any sort of truth on the matter.
In the case of the methods used in “translating” the Book of Mormon, there is a newish (from the last couple-three years) book out, “By the Hand of Mormon” (IIRC the title) that covers in a pretty evenhanded manner the history of Smith’s bringing forth of the BoM, even though it is written by a mormon. IIRC, it was published by Oxford University Press, though I am not so certain anymore; shortly after reading it, my Mother In Law borrowed it, and I have not seen it since. At anyrate, it is not the usual “junk” or “bubblegum” reading you will find published by Deseret
The issue of “skin color” is hotly contested, though nevertheless to be found in both the BoM, and related material in the Pearl of Great Price. These things were found in the issues of scripture that I had, though the way some have been talking lately here, I apparently did not have the most recent editions (though mine were the most recent available in the late 1990’s when I aquired them) have removed the ‘offending’ passages (though I cannot confirm this myself).
Again, you may be presented by frank refusals due to the specific details of your question (for instance, I am not personally recalling anything about “red” skin, though plenty of references to “black” skin, being a curse from God, therefore you may get a frank “no, we don’t” from some who are referring to your questioning “red skin” rather than “black skin”.).
This is why you will need a little preparation before trying to engage such matters here.
