Here is a render of a Wonderous Wares vase.  I set the gain at 2.  I also found out I had to use an HDRI in the place of the skydome that the vases came with. I used an IBL that came with Reality. 

Two things:  What if I didn't want a picture of a swimming pool or anything else like that in my scene? 

                     The vase is still black. 

Good thing it's not real or I might break it.  Not really, but I am frustrated.  Mostly at my ignorance.  Any suggestions?