Understanding Magnetic Reactions in Sterling Silver Jewelry

Question
Hi Bill and Sally

I have many bracelets and charms marked sterling, str, ster, 925, 800, 835 etc, yet many that I have accumulated over the years react when I apply a magnet over them. Why is this? My understanding is that silver, gold and copper are diamagnetic materials and the atoms have no permanent magnetic moment. Hence, there should be no reaction when a magnet is applied. Can you shed some light on this mystery?

Thanks...Gary from Calgary.


Answer
Hello Gary and thank you for your inquiry. Other than the 925 - alloys included in the charms (800, 835 etc) may react to your magnet. Some of the 925 items may also have a slight amt of alloy that reacts or part of the item may have other metals added as part of the design. That's really the only reason I can come to. Hope this helps.