the stones mounted in the cross itself are put in what is called an 'invisible' setting, meaning you can't see what holds them in. each stone has a tiny line cut in the side of them and when molded the gold forms a grid, flowing into each line, and holds them in place. sometimes a casting flaw causes the 'grid' to be incomplete and a stone can fall out because there is nothing to hold it. these settings are common and even seen in sterling jewelry, but they are nearly impossible to work on if a repair is needed. (I hate them) I haven't seen one with this many stones. the stones themselves aren't really worth a whole lot, but this piece was probably pretty expensive when purchased new just because or the intricate casting
