Swingers explain why they wear black ring that is a major sign someone is one

As well as being open-minded, you've got to have a decent understanding of symbolism if you fancy yourself as a swinger.

Although partner swapping has become a lot more accepted by society in recent years, there's still a large number of people who consider it a taboo topic.

So, the sexually adventurous tend to value discretion very highly - however, flying under the radar like this also means that finding like-minded people can be a struggle.

Which is why members of the swinging community came up with a few secret signals which help them let others know that they're part of the same club.

Most people already know a couple of the obvious ones - such as sticking some pampas gras in the garden or an the upside-down pineapple on your front door.

But for those who prefer something a bit more subtle, you can also just simply slip a black ring onto a finger on your right hand.

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

If the black ring has got the swingers symbol on it too, there's no way you can misinterpret it (The Swinger Symbol)

As well as being considered as a badge of honour by some people in the swinging sphere, wearing a black ring essentially tells other polyamorous folk that you're game.

According to The Swinger Symbol (SS), some people go the whole hog and wear jewellery which is also emblazoned with 'a swing' - a symbol which looks like this \_/ - to ensure they're getting the message out loud and clear.

Sporting these accessories means you are 'proud of your way of life' and that you 'refuse to be judged for not following the rules', the website explains.

However, this doesn't mean discretion just flies out the window - jewellery just simply acts as a way of quiet communication between swingers.

The SS website explains: "The symbol can help all of us to discretely identify and recognise each other in the swinging lifestyle.

"We propose wearing swinger jewellery at whatever point you're available to meet like minded people in this lifestyle.

"It will send out a clear and out loud message that you're interested in a swinging adventure with the person you're meeting.

"Wearing swinging jewellery will suggest that you're an individual from the swinging community and undoubtedly would spice up your style."

Using the non-verbal code makes it easier for like-minded people to connect (Getty Stock Image)

Why do swingers wear them?

Black rings, or jewellery stamped with the swinger symbol, are essentially a non-verbal cue which helps other people clock onto the fact that you're down for some fun.

You can sniff out other like-minded folk in a crowded bar or restaurant without making a huge scene, so everyone's happy.

The Swinger Symbol explains that you can even chance a black bracelet, wristband, and anklet instead of a ring too - while the website also offered some advice on how to strike up a conversation.

It states: "On the off chance that somebody wearing a black ring, a bracelet or necklace with 'The Swing' symbol approaches you, start conversing with them...'I see you're wearing a piece of special jewellery, perhaps, we are the members of the same club?'"

Apparently, it doesn't matter which finger you've got the black ring or other accessories on, as long as it's on the right side of you're body.

Still - it is important to note that this jewellery code isn't a foolproof way to find swingers.

People who identify as asexual also use black rings to subtly inform others of their lack of interest in sexual activity, while there are also people out there who simply like to sport black rings.

Good luck out there, guys!