In this paper, a handheld intelligent susceptibility meter was designed based on the resonance principle. A calculation formula for the resonance principle method was derived to measure the magnetic susceptibility of rock. Simulation of the influencing factors of the resonance method was conducted to explore the magnetic susceptibility of rock. The overall design of the instrument was informed by the simulation results and actual detection needs. The peripheral circuit was constructed based on LDC1614, and the inductance sensor, signal extraction program, and operation interface for the upper computer were designed. The prototype of the magnetic susceptibility instrument was completed. The instrument is portable (weighing only 0.2 kg) and is easy to operate. The measurement error is less than 5% compared with similar foreign instruments, and the accuracy of the instrument can reach 10^-7. It is suitable for both field and laboratory measurements and holds practical engineering value.