Former cruise ship worker says there is a hidden adult meaning if you see someone wearing a black ring

An ex-cruise ship worker has revealed how a person's choice in jewellery may be carrying a hidden sex meaning.

Thanks to the creation of designated 'spicy cruises' in the past couple of years, sailing the open seas is a past time which has become increasingly popular alongside the swinging community.

The practice is an open secret, as couples who regularly engage in such activities have made sure to share their lifestyle with the rest of us – including sneak peaks at symbolic door decorations and open 'playrooms' alongside busting myths about the lifestyle.

However, the polyamorous community isn't restricted to spicy cruises, swinger islands or episodes of Channel 4's Open House, with several couples using certain symbols to signify their preferences.

An 'if you know, you know' situation.

Hidden adult meanings behind certain symbols on cruises explained

The polyamorous lifestyle has become increasingly popular over the past few years (Getty Stock Images)

Of course, we're all aware of the connotations of wearing or owning anything pineapple themed, especially if it's an upside down pineapple, but what other signs could suggest a couple is open to the swinging lifestyle.

Here to explain other hidden symbols is Lucy Southerton, a former cruise ship worker of 10 years, who has since made content about her work on YouTube.

In one video, Lucy broke down some of the symbols frequently associated with swingers – and it includes a fairly inconspicuous jewellery choice.

What does it mean if someone is wearing a black ring?

A black ring, worn on the right hand, is one of the lesser known symbols (Getty Stock Images)

One tell pointed out by Lucy included a person wearing a black ring on their right hand.

"One other that I've heard is there's a black ring on your right hand," she said.

Lucy isn't the only person to point out the hidden meaning behind the jewellery choice, with numerous Reddit threads and the polyamory podcast, Life on the Swingset, also noting the association between black rings worn on the right hand and non-monogamy.

However, the former cruise ship worker did note that a black ring worn on the right hand may not always necessarily mean a swinger, as someone may just happen to own a black ring which perfectly fits a finger on their right hand.

"But that's a little bit more inconspicuous because can you imagine if you went up to someone and you're like, 'Hey, I can see that black ring on your right hand' and they are like, 'Yeah, it's just a black ring'." she said.

It's also worth noting that a black ring worn on the middle finger is one which is associated with asexuality (via Kent State), which means you could end up offending someone by assuming a black ring alone is a symbol of swinging.

However, if you spot someone wearing a black ring alongside a pineapple print shirt while their partner is clutching a pink flamingo – then there's a good chance they may practice the swinger lifestyle.