Minecraft wiki entry for Tips_and_tricks, associated text: When looking for ores, there are two main techniques: Go into existing caves or ravines and look for exposed ores (spelunking) or dig your way to the desired level (different ores spawn on different levels) and then dig a mine pattern through the rock. These tend to overlap on the one hand, digging a pattern is likely to run into caves, and on the other, a ravine or cave network can help you get down to the desired level more easily.