Mass causes gravity through a combination of properties described by the stress-energy tensor, which includes energy density, pressure terms, and momentum densities. Visualizing gravity as a dimple in a fabric-like field helps conceptualize how energy can exert gravitational influence without mass. This model illustrates that even massless entities like photons can contribute to gravitational effects. While the exact cause of mass remains uncertain, the relationship between energy and gravity is emphasized. For further understanding, "The Quantum World" by Kenneth W. Ford is recommended as an introductory resource on quantum physics.