, 11 min reading time
Magnetism in stainless steel is one of the most misunderstood topics in jewellery. A magnetic bracelet doesn’t mean it’s fake — it simply reveals which alloy family it belongs to. This guide breaks down 316L, 304, 201 and 430, explains why magnetism varies, and shows you how to test stainless steel confidently.
Stainless steel is one of the most misunderstood metals in the jewellery world. Customers often assume that “real stainless steel” should never react to a magnet — but that belief is based on incomplete information. In reality, stainless steel is not a single metal. It is a family of alloys, each with its own behaviour, structure, and magnetic response. Understanding these differences is the key to understanding your jewellery.
Austenitic stainless steels are the premium, jewellery‑grade alloys. They contain chromium and nickel, which stabilise a non‑magnetic crystal structure. Grades like 304 and 316L are known for their corrosion resistance, skin safety, and long‑term durability. 316L, often called “surgical steel,” is the highest standard used in high‑end jewellery.
Reference: [ AZoM ]
Ferritic stainless steels contain more iron and less nickel, which makes them naturally magnetic. They are commonly used in kitchen appliances, sinks, and hardware. While still considered real stainless steel, they are not typically used for premium jewellery due to lower corrosion resistance.
Reference: [ AZoM ]
These grades are hard, magnetic, and used for knives, scissors, and tools. They are not common in jewellery because they are designed for strength rather than comfort or corrosion resistance.
Reference: [ AZoM ]
201 stainless steel replaces some nickel with manganese, making it more affordable. It is slightly magnetic and widely used in budget jewellery and accessories. While not as corrosion‑resistant as 316L, it is still considered real stainless steel.
Reference: [ AZoM ]
Yes and no — it depends entirely on the grade. Austenitic grades like 304 and 316L are usually non‑magnetic because nickel stabilises their structure. Ferritic and martensitic grades (430, 410, 420) contain more iron and are naturally magnetic. 201 sits in the middle with a mild magnetic pull. All of these are still real stainless steel.
No. Magnetism only reveals the alloy family, not authenticity. A magnetic bracelet may simply be made from 201 or 430 instead of 316L.
Because the alloy contains more iron. 201 and 430 grades respond more strongly to magnets than 304 or 316L.
316L is generally non‑magnetic, but may show a very slight pull if the metal has been cold‑worked during shaping or polishing.
Similar to 316L — usually non‑magnetic, but can become weakly magnetic after manufacturing processes.
Often slightly magnetic due to reduced nickel and increased manganese content.
Yes — strongly magnetic. This is normal for ferritic stainless steel.
No. Durability depends on chromium and nickel content, not magnetic behaviour.
No. Skin reactions come from nickel, not magnetism.
Because each supplier may use a different stainless‑steel grade. One may use 316L, another 304, another 201.
Yes — nickel plating can create a slight magnetic pull even on non‑magnetic bases.
High‑quality grades (316L, 304) resist rust extremely well. Lower grades (201, 430) may show minor oxidation over time.
Not necessarily — it is simply a different alloy family with different uses.
They are usually made from martensitic stainless steel (410/420), which is magnetic.
Higher iron content increases density, especially in 430.
Yes — as long as nickel content is controlled.
No. Plating quality depends on the process, not magnetism.
Yes — heating or reshaping can reduce magnetic response.
Not always. For jewellery, 316L is preferred, but 201 is still widely used and perfectly functional.
By combining magnet tests, weight checks, visual inspection, corrosion testing, and supplier disclosure.
Stainless steel surrounds us in daily life — from jewellery to kitchen tools, grooming accessories to tech components. Here’s a curated overview of common items made from stainless steel, grouped for clarity.
| Lifestyle | Kitchen & Dining | Grooming & Tools |
|---|---|---|
| Wristwatch | Cutlery (fork, spoon, knife) | Scissors |
| Jewellery (rings, bracelets) | Water bottle | Nail clippers |
| Keychain | Thermos flask | Tweezers |
| Reusable straw | Electric kettle | Razor blade |
| Door handle | Coffee machine part | Hairdressing scissors |
| Laptop hinge | Fridge shelf | Soap dispenser |
Magnetism depends on the crystal structure of the alloy. Austenitic stainless steels (304, 316L) are non‑magnetic because nickel stabilises their structure. Ferritic (430) and martensitic (410/420) grades contain more iron and are naturally magnetic. 201 stainless steel sits in the middle with a mild magnetic pull.
Reference: [ AZoM ]
Weak pull suggests 304 or 316L. Moderate pull suggests 201. Strong pull suggests 430. This is the fastest way to identify alloy families.
Higher iron content makes the piece feel heavier. 430 is noticeably heavier than 316L or 201.
316L and 304 have a bright, smooth finish. 201 is slightly duller. 430 has a darker grey tone.
316L has the highest resistance, followed by 304, then 201, with 430 being the most prone to oxidation.
Requesting grade information and nickel‑release test results is the most reliable way to confirm authenticity.
| Test Method | What You Need | What You Look For | What It Tells You |
|---|---|---|---|
| Magnet Test | Small magnet | Weak, moderate, strong pull | Alloy family |
| Weight Check | Reference piece | Heavier or lighter feel | Iron content |
| Visual Inspection | Light, loupe | Colour, shine, grain | Grade clues |
| Corrosion Check | Water exposure | Rust or no rust | Corrosion resistance |
| Supplier Disclosure | Grade info | 304/316L/201/430 | Authenticity |
Not all stainless steel is priced the same — and not all of it is suitable for jewellery. This table breaks down the most common grades, their typical price levels, and whether they are recommended for long‑term wear.
| Stainless Steel Grade | Price Level | Jewellery Suitability |
|---|---|---|
| 316L (Surgical Steel) | Medium–High | ✅ Best choice — hypoallergenic, non‑tarnish, premium shine |
| 304 Stainless Steel | Medium | ✅ Very good — durable, corrosion‑resistant, widely used |
| 201 Stainless Steel | Low–Medium | ✅ Acceptable — good for fashion jewellery, slightly magnetic |
| 430 Stainless Steel | Low | ⚠️ Not recommended — strongly magnetic, lower corrosion resistance |
| 410 / 420 Stainless Steel | Low–Medium | ❌ Not suitable — designed for knives/tools, not skin contact |
Different stainless steel grades respond differently to magnets. This table helps readers understand why — and what it means for jewellery.
| Grade | Magnetic Level | Reason | Jewellery Suitability |
|---|---|---|---|
| 316L | None to very weak | High nickel stabilises non‑magnetic structure | ✅ Excellent |
| 304 | Very weak | Similar structure to 316L | ✅ Very good |
| 201 | Mild | Lower nickel, higher manganese | ✅ Good for fashion jewellery |
| 430 | Strong | High iron content | ⚠️ Not recommended |
| 410 / 420 | Strong | Martensitic structure | ❌ Not suitable |
For long‑lasting, premium jewellery: choose 316L Stainless Steel — hypoallergenic, non‑tarnish, and used in luxury watches.
For reliable everyday wear: choose 304 Stainless Steel — durable, bright, and perfect for bracelets, chains, and rings.
For affordable fashion jewellery: choose 201 Stainless Steel — budget‑friendly and widely used in fast‑fashion accessories.
For jewellery that stays beautiful: avoid 430, 410, and 420 — these grades belong in appliances and tools, not on the body.
Simple rule:
316L → premium
304 → reliable
201 → affordable
430/410/420 → avoid
Stainless steel jewellery is durable, accessible, and beautifully versatile — but only when you understand the grades behind the shine.
316L gives you premium longevity. 304 gives you everyday reliability. 201 gives you affordability without compromise. And 430, 410, and 420 remind us that not every metal belongs on the body.
Magnetism doesn’t define authenticity — composition does. When you know the difference, you shop with confidence and choose pieces that stay beautiful for years.
At JewelHub™, we believe transparency is part of good design. When you understand your materials, your jewellery becomes more than an accessory — it becomes a story you can trust.
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