If you're single, you want to meet other singles - but you can't always tell right away if they're committed. It's awkward to ask. Now wearing a "single's ring" announces their single status.

There are engagement rings and wedding rings, but until two and a half years ago there was no such thing as a ring for single men and women. Why not?

Swedish businessman Johan Wahlback asked that question almost three years ago when he was having dinner with a friend. Both singles at that time, the two were happily discussing how much they enjoyed their single lives. The only problem: when they meet new people, it is always difficult to tell if they are also single or not.

"It seems impolite if you ask the question when you first meet," Wahlback says. "However, I think single people do need to clearly announce their status so that they will have the chance to meet more people of the same kind."

The smart entrepreneur foresaw the business potential. The singelringen ("single ring" in Swedish) was introduced in April 2005 and soon became a popular trend-setting accessory for young people in Europe.

It is a ring that proudly states "I am single." The unisex ring features a turquoise acrylic layer shining over a sterling silver band engraved with "made in Sweden" and a unique registration number. It is available in four sizes.

"Turquoise is the color if you combine blue and green, both are known as unisex colors," Wahlback explains. "At first I thought of making the ring in different colors and shapes but then decided not to because that could be too complicated and confusing."

According to the founder, the ring can be worn on any finger. It also looks great around the neck on a chain or cord. The piece of jewelry can also be used as a decoration on a handbag or even as jewelry for a cell phone, which is popular in countries such as Japan.

Singelringen is sold in more than 20 countries and regions, and appeals to young people all over the world. Each ring comes with a registration number and an access code to the community the company has created for the singles.

"With the registration number engraved on the ring and the access code, you're free to browse the Website to meet single friends around the world," says the Swedish entrepreneur.

"We are not saying that the single life is the optimal life to live but we want to encourage people to enjoy their single lives," he continues. "You may wish to find 'the one,' or you are quite satisfied with life as it is. Regardless, you will show everyone that you accept and stand for what you are - an attractive single."

Shortly after its launch in Beijing this summer, more than 2,500 rings were sold in two months. A Chinese version Website (www.singelringen.cn) has been created specially for the Chinese customers. Priced at 398 yuan (US$54), the ring is currently available through the Website only.

Wahlback says business in China is growing very fast and about 3,000 rings are expected to be sold every month. Next year he plans to bring more "single" products to the country such as the "single" dog collar.

(Shanghai Daily December 10, 2007)