These are rubber clips for protecting lids; they're most commonly used for enameled cookware like Le Creuset dutch ovens, but they're also used for glass cookware (like Pyrex), non-stick cookware, stainless steel pots, and non-enameled cast iron.
They're useful for preventing chipping of enamel, allowing airflow during storage to prevent odor or mold, and avoid lids sticking to post. If you've paid for a pot not made in China, chances are you made an investment in a pot that will last instead of a "disposable" one. These will make them last much longer. You might have gotten these kinds of clips when your pot was shipped to you, but these are much better, made of TPU and a perfect fit.
The brand "Gadget Ray" claims that theirs is the original. It's hard to verify that (it'd be nice if they included a little history of when they started making these). But even if they aren't these are fairly priced and made in Largo, Florida. And they work great.
