What is the ring of o?

The Ring of O is a gold ring, designed by French fashion designer, Dominique Aury, in the 1950s. The ring is known for its unique design, which features a circular band with a jailer-style metal hoop in the center. The design was inspired by the novel Histoire d'O (Story of O) by Pauline Réage, which explores themes of dominance and submission in sexual relationships.

The Ring of O quickly became a popular symbol within the BDSM (bondage, discipline, dominance, submission, sadism and masochism) community and is often used as a talisman to represent a wearer's identification with the lifestyle.

Today, the Ring of O can be found in various goldsmith workshops, and it is also sometimes made with other materials, such as stainless steel, titanium or silver. Despite its origins within the BDSM community, the Ring of O has been adopted as a symbol by other groups, ranging from fans of the book to people in open marriages or polyamorous relationships.