The symbol stands for the sound Aum or Om. It is considered the most important symbol in the Hindu faith. It represents Brahman, which is the sound at the start of creation. There is no 925 to indicate sterling silver, but it must be made of some kind of silver plate. It was very tarnished, and a silver polish cloth took off the tarnish. Please look at picture three. There are a few places where the metal underneath shows through . Stick made out of wood. (Piece #100044)