Abstract: A self-actuating restraining gasket having optional integral sealing means is provided which is used particularly in bell-and-spigot pipe joints or joints employing pipe appurtenances, and more particularly in joints to be assembled in the field, the bell end of the pipe or pipe appurtenance to be employed having an annular recess adapted to receive the gasket therein, the gasket further employing a plurality of pairs of cooperating metal retaining elements embedded in the elastomeric gasket, the pairs of retaining elements being spaced apart around the circumference of the gasket, each pair of retaining elements comprising a wedging member and a backing member for the wedging member, and wherein the pairs of retaining elements act as the self-actuating retention or restraining elements, and an optional compressible back part of the gasket acts as a fluid seal when a pipe spigot is inserted in the bell.