ffxiv ability:Preserve  

Maintains a solid white orb for the duration of the effect. Lasts for 4 synthesis attempts on recipes considered to be "finished items"; 3 attempts on all others. Obtained automatically upon reaching Alchemist Rank 10.

For crafters who follow the synthesis progression curve this can be as much of a beneficial effect (reversing the curve in your favor) as it can be a detrimental effect (used while the curve is already at its peak in your favor causing it to cycle around to an unfavorable curve).

For more information on progress:durabilty loss progression feel free to IM me as I have not yet put together a comprehensible guide to easily explain the topic yet. (Not to mention that it may change in the next patch (1.19 or 1.20))