During the age of exploration what were the exploring countries hoping to find

The Age of Exploration that began during the 15th, 16th and 17th century, European countries began to explore beyond their borders. In their explorations, some hope to find new find gold and silver. Others were looking for new routes where in they could travel in short period of time. There were those who also planned to propagate the Christian faith to other lands. Others seek to find new places that could be a source of raw materials needed in their country.