Exodus 28:13

Ouches. That is, settings of open, or filigree, work, which were quite common in Egyptian ornaments. These were probably sewn to the ephod. The “two chains” (verse 14), or cords of twisted gold wire, were fastened to them. “Wreathen work” was twisted or braided. These stones served the double purpose of reminding the high priest that he bore upon his shoulders the solemn and sacred responsibility of being the intercessor between the 12 tribes and God, and of reminding God, as it were, that the high priest represented the tribes and officiated for them.