Galvanic brooch

Galvanic brooch, various metals, perforated disc, made by Ferdinand de Boyeres, French, 1860-1916. Inscribed on one side 'B S.G.D.G & Depose Ferd de Boyeres'

Worn against the skin and in contact with sweat, amulets made up of a combination of metal alloys were believed to create a weak electrical charge, recharging the body's electrical supply. It was based on an ideal that electricity was responsible for healthy nerves and blood flow. Ferdinand de Boyères (1840-1890), a French businessman and publisher, sold his version of a galvanic amulet, which his wife continued after his death. His brother Paul also sold counterfeited versions of the amulet.

The letters BSGDG stand for Breveté Sans Garantie du Gouvernement or 'Patented Without Government Guarantee', meaning that his brand name was registered but its claims or novelty were not examined by the French government, removing any liability to them.

Galvanic was a term used for the production of electricity from a chemical reaction.