C
alifornia's Mojave desert is experiencing a new gold rush, driven by soaring prices that have reached record highs. In Johannesburg, a small town 140 miles north of Los Angeles, a surge in demand for mining properties has sparked a real estate boom.

    Historic mines are attracting prospectors and investors who see an opportunity to tap into the hidden riches beneath the desert's craggy brush. With gold now trading at $2,630 per ounce, small claims can be bought for under $50,000 while larger ones fetch hundreds of thousands. Properties with patented mining rights are particularly valuable as they grant owners access to both surface and mineral resources.

    Entrepreneur Sean Tucker has invested millions in acquiring 97 acres and leasing over 2,500 acres near Johannesburg. His operation plans to start full-scale mining next year using advanced technology to unearth the precious metal. With a projected cost of $1,220 per ounce, Tucker expects a profit margin of around $1,400.

    The town of Randsburg, once home to 3,500 people during California's last gold rush, is now a quiet ghost town with just 45 residents. However, its historic ties to gold are attracting attention, with some properties selling for up to $175,000. While mining operations come with risks and challenges, the allure of gold continues to draw investors who see their fortune beneath the desert's surface.