But in reality, gold reserves are more substantial in rock formations than in the pebbles at the bottom of a creek bed. Industrially, panning for gold is an inefficient way to find the ore. However, modern gold mines bring risk which many investors simply don't want to shoulder.

Gold has enduring value, but at the same time it is getting harder to find. The age of Globalization, we now have an economic boom in parts of the world where it has not happened in centuries. In a few of these countries, gold is revered.

Take, for instance, India and China, both which have a significant impact on world economic trends. They also both have cultural ties to gold as the measure of wealth. Throughout the world, countries are gaining stature, and at the same time, buying gold as an investment.

So what's happening? Well, the rapid demand for gold right now, is passing what the mines can bring out of the ground. The search for new gold has never been certain and has proven to be risky. And the mines, who knows how long they will hold out? Estimates are made, but not always accurate. There is also significant time from discovery to production - sometimes years.

Mines are dangerous places, as we've experienced throughout history. Gold mines carry an additional risk of waste that may seep into the water table. Although production methods have greatly improved, many countries are still not up to speed.

All this makes it an excellent time to invest in gold. The demand is there and can be verified. The rarity of gold is real. Mines can't produce it fast enough. New mines may be years away from production. Yield cannot be accurately calculated. It makes sense to at least look into gold investing. See what you can afford and purchase some for your financial portfolio. You'll be glad you did.