Eddy currents arise when a conductive material moves through a magnetic field. Eddy currents, like all electric currents, generate a magnetic field. The generated magnetic field can be detected and measured through use of one or more magnetically biased GMR elements. In general, an eddy current sensor can be configured, which includes a magnet, and a first giant magnetoresistive element placed such that the magnetic field from the magnet biases the giant magnetoresistive element along its primary axis.