Gold Magnet Test
Does real gold stick to magnets? Learn how to use the magnet test to check your gold.
Written by James Whitfield·Investment Research Lead·Last updated April 2026The magnet test is the simplest home test for gold. Gold is a diamagnetic metal, meaning it is not attracted to magnets. If your item sticks to a magnet, it contains ferromagnetic metals like iron or nickel and is not solid gold. However, many fake gold items use non-magnetic metals like brass, copper, or lead, so passing the magnet test alone does not prove gold is genuine. The test works best as a quick first filter — if it fails, you know immediately. If it passes, continue with other tests. Use a strong neodymium magnet for best results, as weak fridge magnets may not detect all magnetic alloys.
How to tell if gold is real — 6 home tests
Frequently asked questions
Does real gold stick to a magnet?▾
No. Real gold is not magnetic and will not stick to or be attracted by a magnet.
Can fake gold pass the magnet test?▾
Yes. Brass, copper, and other non-magnetic metals used in fakes also don't stick to magnets.
My gold chain clasp sticks to a magnet but the chain doesn't?▾
Many clasps use spring mechanisms with steel or nickel. The chain itself may be real gold while the clasp contains magnetic metal.
What type of magnet should I use?▾
A neodymium (rare earth) magnet works best. Standard fridge magnets may be too weak to detect some magnetic alloys.
Is white gold magnetic?▾
White gold alloyed with palladium is non-magnetic. White gold with nickel alloy may show slight magnetic attraction.