Is Gold Magentic?

It's common misconception to believe that because an object is made of a metal then it must be magentic. Gold (Au), a precious metal behaves very differently. Below we explain why pure gold is not magentic, when gold can show a reaction to a magent, and some facts about this incredible and highly valuable metal.

The Short Answer

Pure (24 carat) gold does not stick to everyday magents. Gold is scientifically classed as diamagentic which means it creates a very small magentic field in the opposite direction, and is therefore very slightly repelled by a powerful magnet.

Why Isn’t Gold Magnetic?

• Structure of the atom: Gold’s electrons are arranged in such a way that their magnetic effects cancel one another out, leaving no overall attraction.
• Relativity at work: The famous theory of relativity slightly alters the way electrons move around the nucleus in heavy elements like gold, reinforcing its diamagnetic behaviour.^2, 3

Because the repulsion effect is so weak, you would need an industrial strength electromagnet to notice any movement. A household or kitchen fridge magnet simply is not strong enough to see any movement.

When Gold Can React to a Magnet

1. Alloys for jewellery: In the UK, gold at 37.5% purity (9 carat) is commonly used in jewellery. With this purity, the remaining alloy is usually made up of copper, silver and zinc. These metals are also non-magentic, so most british hallmarked jewellery will not stick.
2. Gold plating: Some costume pieces often use iron or nickel as a base metal with a thin layer of gold plating. These imposters will jump to a magnet, and this is a reliable way for testing for plated gold or fake gold.
3. Manufacturing parts: Clasps on necklaces and bracelets can contain small springs made of steel that can attract a magent. Meaning the clasp of a genuine solid gold necklace can be attracted to a magent. Gold bangles can often also have a steel wire core, this is to give the item strength and prevent it losing its shape, the wire can be easliy removed if the bangle is dismantled.

The At Home Magnet Test (with Caution!)

• Use a strong neodymium magnet for the best chance of spotting fake gold or plated items.
• Move the magnet slowly over the piece in mid-air. You are checking for attraction, without scratching the metal.
• Remember that a non-magnetic result does not guarantee authenticity, but should serve as a guide. Gold plated tungsten, for example, will also ignore a magnet. Combine the magnet test with other checks (hallmark, density, professional XRF scan) for peae of mind.

Fascinating Facts About Gold’s Composition

Key Takeaways

• Gold in its pure form is diamagnetic, so it will not stick to ordinary magnets.
• Most hallmarked gold alloys used in UK jewellery still show no magnetic attraction, due to the other metals used in the alloy process.
• A magnet test is a handy first simple check, but it should be combined with professional methods when you need some absolute certainty.

If you would like your gold items valued or authenticated, our expert team is ready to help. Pop into our Warrington store or request a free postal pack today.