Try the seed "desert"
It doesn't spawn you in a desert it spawns you in a forest, but next to the forest is some hills leading into a huge valley. Be careful though. Falling into it straight from the top of the hills is instant death. Work your way down slowly. There are actually some good mines in the valley. One of which leads to three emeralds, however each one is is in a different place. There is about 10 gold and tons of iron and coal. Sadly I didn't see any redstone or diamond though. There was about two blocks of lapis too.
You should try it. It's pretty good
-compidokink
