First off, NO those are not initials. I know, that's what I thought too! But if there were, they would probably be an "R" for rich, "E" for excellent quality, and a big fat "F" for faaabulous right in the center! I mean, this is John Wind folks...hello! It looks like sterling, and a polishing cloth does wonders for it, but there's nothing that indicates that it is. It has an antiqued look, and you'll want to keep it that way! It's 7 1/2" end to end. As always, I'M ONLY SELLING ON PM. NO TRADES.