Using a Keychain Neodymium Magnet to Test Jewelry and Coins

Using a neodymium keychain magnet to test jewelry and coins is a simple way to check if it’s made from real precious metals or if it contains non-precious metals. Here’s how you can do it:

What You Need

• A keychain magnet. This test requires a strong magnet, like our neodymium keychain magnets. Regular refrigerator magnets may not be strong enough.

Testing Jewelry With a Keychain Magnet

Steps

1. Hold the magnet close to the jewelry piece.
2. Observe if the jewelry is attracted to the magnet.

Interpreting the Results

• If the jewelry is attracted to the magnet:
  • It likely contains ferromagnetic metals such as iron, nickel, or cobalt.
  • This suggests it is not pure gold, silver, or platinum, as these metals are non-magnetic.
  • The jewelry could be gold- or silver-plated over a base metal.
• If the jewelry is not attracted to the magnet:
  • It may be real gold, silver, or platinum (or another non-magnetic metal like copper or brass).
  • However, some fake jewelry may also be made of non-magnetic metals, so this is not a conclusive test.

Additional Considerations

• Some clasps, screws, or fasteners on real jewelry may contain magnetic metals, so test the main body of the piece.
• White gold may contain nickel, which can be slightly magnetic.
• Silver and gold alloys mixed with trace amounts of magnetic metals may show weak attraction.

This test is a preliminary check. For a more accurate test, consider using acid tests, density tests, or having a jeweler inspect it professionally.

Testing Coins With a Keychain Magnet

Using a magnet to test coins can help determine their metal composition and identify counterfeit or valuable coins. Here’s how:

How to Test Coins with a Neodymium Magnet

1. Hold the magnet close to the coin or place the coin at an angle and slide the magnet over it.
2. Observe the reaction:
   • If the coin sticks strongly, it contains iron, nickel, or another magnetic metal.
   • If the coin does not stick, it is likely made of non-magnetic metals like copper, silver, gold, or aluminum.
   • If the coin slowly slides down the magnet but does not fully stick, it may contain a small amount of magnetic metal or be made of an alloy with slight magnetic properties.

Examples of Magnetic & Non-Magnetic Coins

• Magnetic Coins:
  • Many modern Canadian coins (nickel-plated steel).
  • Some war-time nickels (U.S. 1943 steel cents, Canadian 5-cent pieces from 1942-1945).
• Non-Magnetic Coins:
  • U.S. pennies (except 1943 steel cents) – Mostly copper or zinc.
  • Most U.S. nickels – Made of 75% copper and 25% nickel (not enough nickel to be magnetic).
  • Silver and gold coins – Pure silver and gold are not magnetic.

Why Use A Magnet to Test Coins?

• Check for counterfeits – Fake coins might be made of different metals than the originals.
• Identify valuable coins – For example, a 1943 U.S. penny that is NOT magnetic may be a rare copper penny worth thousands of dollars.
• Sort collectible coins – Some collectors use magnets to separate coins by metal content.

Where to Buy Envistia/EnMagnet Neodymium Keychain Magnets

12mm (~1/2 inch) Diameter Pocket Keychain Magnet at Envistia Mall

Large 21mm (~0.8 inch) Diameter Pocket Keychain Magnet at Envistia Mall

Extra-Large 28mm (~1.1 inch) Diameter Pocket Keychain Magnet at Envistia Mall