With Type tool chosen:
Mac: Opt+G
PC: Alt+0169
One familiar way to handle the symbol is this:
1. After creating and sizing the symbol (Fig 1)
2. Choose Click on the layer to bring up Layer Style and choose Bevel & Emboss (Fig 2)
3. In the Layers panel, drag the Fill down from 100% to zero (Fig 3)
4. Use the Opacity slider to reduce the intensity of the symbol (Fig 4)