Why wearing black ring could be a sign someone is a swinger

If you wear a black ring on a certain hand, it could mean one of two things: you're either a swinger or you're accidentally telling the world you are a swinger when you're not one.

Generally speaking, there are obvious reasons for wanting to keep your relationship status private, but things can get a lot more difficult when you're a swinger.

Consensually having more than one partner is becoming more and more common, but just because someone is sexually adventurous doesn't automatically mean that they want it advertised.

While discretion is often advised in the community, upside-down pineapples and flamingos on t-shirts are fairly common and very obvious signs that someone is of that life.

But for those who prefer a more subtle sign, or don't want to look like a cartoon character on a spicy cruise ship, wearing a black ring can solve your problems.

People who wear a black ring on their right hand could be sending out a subtle signal to like-minded individuals (Getty Stock Images)

What does it mean if a swinger wears a black ring?

For some, wearing a black ring is like a badge of honour, and for others, it sends out a subtle signal to like-minded individuals.

According to The Swinger Symbol (SS), if you wear certain accessories, it means that you are 'proud of your way of life' and that 'you refuse to be judged for not following the rules'.

However, the website tells swingers to wear the 'black ring on any finger except the middle finger', adding: "The ring finger is the regular spot for the black ring, yet thumb rings are cool as well.

"A black ring worn on the middle finger of the right hand is a rarely utilized symbol of asexuality.

"Therefore, please refrain from wearing the black ring on the middle finger as a mark of respect to this community.

Discretion is often advised in the community (Getty Stock Images)

How swingers with black rings approach each other

So, SS reveals that you don't have to wear a ring if you don't want to or find it uncomfortable.

"Also, it hardly matters on which hand you're wearing your wristbands, bracelets or anklets. Be cool, be classy and be sassy," they said.

"On the off chance that somebody wearing a black ring, a bracelet or necklace with 'The Swing' symbol approaches you, start conversing with them."

The website suggests asking: "I see you're wearing a piece of special jewelry. Perhaps, we are the members of the same club."

If you aren't a fan of jewellery, wearing a ring of any kind is not necessarily needed, SS adds.