Flexible material clutch for a decorative piece and method of use thereof

Abstract

A flexible material type clutch for engagement with a pin-supported article of jewelry or decorative article, wherein the flexible material is at least partially enclosed by a metallic frame. A medially disposed portion of said frame engages a first end of the flexible material, and includes wings which form opposed handles for gripping the retainer. In one embodiment, the flexible material is of frustoconical configuration to provide a camming surface enabling disengagement of the retainer from the frame for replacement thereof. In another embodiment, retainer is of cylindrical configuration, and is maintained against relative axial displacement relative to the frame by inwardly extending tabs on the wings of the frame. The retainer is replaced by lateral movement as in the first mentioned embodiment.

1 . In a clutch for a decorative piece, including a flexible material post-engaging retainer, and a metal frame providing a base plate at a first end of said retainer and handles at a second end of said frame, the improvement comprising: said retainer having first and second ends; said frame forming a base plate at a medial portion thereof, and first and second handles extended axially therefrom, said handles forming openings therein engaging said retainer to retain said retainer in partially enclosed condition relative to said frame; said retainer being of elongated arcuate configuration and having a camming surface serving to spread said frame during relative movement between said frame and said retainer, to permit disengagement of said retainer for replacement. 
     
     
         2 . The method of using a frictional dutch for a decorative piece having a pin extending therefrom, comprising the steps of:
 a) providing an elongated retainer of synthetic resinous material selectively engageable with said pin, said retainer having an elongated arcuate side surface;   b) providing a frame of metallic material having a base and a pair of wings extending therefrom, having openings selectively engaging said surface of said retainer;   c) employing said dutch to a point where said retainer becomes unserviceable;   d) replacing said retainer by displacing said retainer relative to said frame, to disengage said retainer by camming action; and   e) engaging a replacement retainer with said frame, by relative movement, whereby said frame is resiliently spread by slide action provided by the camming surface of said replacement retainer.   
     
     
         3 . The method in accordance with  claim 2 , in which said retainer is of frustoconical configuration. 
     
     
         4 . The method in accordance with  claim 2 , in which said retainer is of cylindrical configuration. 
     
     
         5 . In a clutch for a decorative piece, having a post extending therefrom, said clutch, including a flexible material post-engaging retainer, and a metal frame, providing a base plate at a first end of said retainer and handles at a second end of said frame, said handles forming an opening therein, engaging said retainer, the improvement comprising: said handles of said frame having radially inwardly extending tabs engaging an end of said retainer to maintain said retainer against relative movement in an axial direction.