The GALWAY CROSS is made of 2 hollow tubes. This allows it to be attached to the rosary from either the top or bottom of the crucifix  Instead of a ring at the top, the cord (if strung) is pulled through the length of the tube.  The chained rosaries are done in a similar way and the samples below appear to use cord or leather thong. 
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Often a bead is attached to the bottom first to hold the tassel in place.  The arms of the cross carry a continuation of the design. Tassels were often used for functional and ornamental reasons yet carried the symbolism of 'wiping away the tears'. It is interesting that several of the 'tassels' use techniques found in military uniform passementerie (trim).

This Galway Rosary is made entirely of silver Paters and Ave beads.  Paters are the traditional bicone shape with turned ends and dated 1790.  The tassel at the base of this Cross is made from  brown silk strips and gold bouillon (Passementerie or Trim) often found on large tassels used in architectural appointments of the period including military uniforms and gear.  (better view below) It may have been simply available but since the rosary is often called a 'Weapon Against Evil' , We thought it very appropriate!