The final row of stones in the breastplate completes the magnificent array of twelve gems representing the tribes of Israel. While establishing the exact identity of these ancient gems is difficult [קאסוטו], commentators offer vivid descriptions of their appearance. The first stone in this row is understood by some to be completely clear and transparent [חזקוני]. Others suggest it possessed the changing colors of the sea, taking its name from a coastal location [נתינה לגר]. The second stone is identified as a bright, brilliant green gem [נתינה לגר, חזקוני]. Finally, the third stone is described as highly colorful and mottled like a leopard. Its name is thought to come from the intense rubbing and polishing required to make it shine [נתינה לגר].
These precious stones were carefully secured within gold settings that functioned like tongs, gripping them tightly so they would never slip out of place [העמק דבר]. Because cutting and shaping such hard gems was a difficult task, the gold frames were custom-fitted to the unique shape of each individual stone to hold it securely [ביאור שטיינזלץ].
The requirement that the stones be set perfectly and completely is understood in two complementary ways. The first approach focuses on the physical structure of the settings. The gold frames surrounded the stones to an exact depth, perfectly matching their thickness without protruding or falling short [רש״י, הכתב והקבלה]. This precise fit suggests the gems were square rather than round, ensuring no empty spaces were left in the corners [ביאור יש״ר]. Ultimately, the rows perfectly fulfilled their intended design [ברכת אשר על התורה].
The second approach focuses on the absolute wholeness of the stones themselves. They had to remain entirely intact, with no material missing. Because of this strict condition, the names of the tribes could not be carved using a standard metal tool, which would scratch the surface and remove stone dust. Instead, the names were formed through a miraculous engraving process that left the stones completely whole [העמק דבר, הכתב והקבלה, תורה תמימה].
Beyond their physical beauty, these gems carry deep spiritual significance. Each stone possesses a unique virtue corresponding to a specific tribe and serves as the spiritual root for all precious stones in the world [מלבי״ם]. The very structure of the breastplate also teaches a profound moral lesson through its hierarchy. The gold serves as a base for the precious stones, which in turn serve as a base for the engraved letters. Just as it is customary to place something of greater honor on top of something lesser, the gold and gems representing the ultimate material desires of humanity act merely as a foundation for the letters of the Torah. This deliberate arrangement demonstrates that the Torah, and the letters God used to create the world, hold far greater value than any material wealth [רבנו בחיי].