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Decorative spires (guldastas) extend from the edges of the base walls to emphasize the dome's height. Each one is topped by a large ornamental lotus flower and a gilded finial. The main dome is crowned by a gilded spire or finial, too. The finial was made of gold until the early 1800s, and it is now made of bronze. The finial provides an example of the integration of traditional Persian and Hindu decorative elements. The main dome's finial is topped by a moon, a typical Islamic motif, with its horns pointing heavenward. Because of its placement on the main spire, the horns of the moon and the finial point resemble a trident - the traditional Hindu symbol of Shiva. Tillitson, G.H.R. (1990). Architectural Guide to Mughal India, Chronicle Books http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Taj_mahal