When it comes right down to it, in the natural resources game exploration is exploration. Sometimes an explorer hits it big, other times he tastes dust. From an investor’s point of view, when to make an investment in a natural resources company is the key. Make the investment too soon and the return is a long time in coming or won’t come at all; too late and the cost to invest rises, reducing return. In either case, investing in natural resources exploration and development companies is a roll of the dice, but a potentially profitable one if the right timing and roll is made.