Abstract: A clutch mechanism for releasably gripping the pin or post of an earring has a circular end that normally confronts a person's ear lobe when the pin or post of the earring is engaged in the clutch mechanism. A load distribution member, preferably of vinyl, has a cylindrical sleeve formed with an inwardly directed lip at one end which expands sufficiently to allow the circular end of the clutch mechanism to be inserted into the interior of the cylindrical sleeve. The cylindrical sleeve has a substantially closed end wall at its other end, having a radially directed flange that provides, together with the end wall, a substantial increase in the surface area as contrasted to that provided only by the circular end of the clutch mechanism.