Markings
Photograph the nameplate, laser markings, packaging, part number and manufacturer data.
Practical magnet guide · Safe initial assessment
Identifying neodymium and rare-earth magnets
Reliable identification requires several forms of evidence. Colour, gloss, fracture appearance and perceived magnetic strength are not conclusive in isolation.
Safe initial assessment
Identify magnets: assess the material and origin
The initial purchase assessment starts with documents and non-destructive information about the material’s condition. Test methods are then agreed to suit the material matrix.
Component context
State the application and removal location as indicators of origin, without inferring the material from them.
Condition
Document the geometry, coating, corrosion, breakage and attached materials as found.
Analysis
The method, sampling, surface, matrix and measurement uncertainty must be appropriate to the specific test objective.
Important limitation
Do not perform breakage, grinding, heating, Curie-point or pull-force tests on material you intend to sell.
For material assessment
Information needed for magnet identification
- 01Part number and data sheet
- 02Nameplate and photographs
- 03Batch and origin
- 04Test report stating the method
Enquiry in four steps
Confirm the required photographs, quantity and origin, and agree the handover arrangements
- 01
Enquiry
Record the material, form, condition, quantity and unit, country where the material is located and supporting documents.
- 02
Initial assessment
Cross-check the stated material identity, batch, origin, parties, status and general processing route.
- 03
Assessment plan
If required, agree the sample, method, costs, packaging and handover arrangements.
- 04
Commercial terms
Only once a reliable basis has been established should the commercial terms, responsibilities and payment basis be documented.
Frequently asked questions
Identifying magnets: quick answers
Is a silver-coloured surface sufficient?
No. Coatings can look similar, and not every NdFeB magnet has a visible metallic coating.
Is a strong magnet automatically NdFeB?
No. The design and magnetic circuit affect the perceived force; other permanent-magnet materials also exist.
Is handheld XRF always accurate?
No. The surface, coating, geometry, matrix, calibration and sample preparation all affect what the result can establish.
Technical and legal sources
Six further references
Time-sensitive legal, transport and market information should be checked directly against the linked primary sources before it is used in a specific case.
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