Jean Thibodeau, 43, told The Gazette newspaper in Montreal the ring makes sense in Quebec's society, where marriage is becoming more scarce in favor of common-law relationships.

Thibodeau's rings, made in Hong Kong, are stainless-steel adorned with a metallic-blue paint stripe, the newspaper said. They sell for $39.95 in 12 stores in northern Montreal suburbs. Thibodeau said he plans on gradual expansion further into the province.

A saleswoman at one of the stores selling the rings said about three rings are sold each day, mostly to women.

Quebec's statistical agency backs up Thibodeau's observation on marriage -- only one quarter of men and a third of women can expect to marry in their lifetime in the province, down from near nine in 10 men and women in 1966.

The report didn't specify on which, if any particular finger the ring is worn.