A method for determining the density of contact trace objects with magnetic levitation is described. The density of samples of glitter and of gunpowder was determined, and the feasibility of magnetic levitation as a possible means of characterizing forensic-related evidence is discussed. The magnetic levitation device (composed of two permanent magnets with like poles facing) and the method described provides a means of accurately determining the density of trace objects that is inexpensive, rapid, verifiable, provides documentation, is independent of the specific apparatus or analyst, and provides numerical values (rather than a comparison between questioned and known samples) that may be entered into a searchable database.