Cutting developed a method for adhering the two pieces of glass together using Canada balsam. When measured against Canada Balsam it will display moderate positive relief. The layers of glass were bonded together by Canada balsam. Another important application of Canada balsam is in the construction of the Nicol prism. Canada balsam was traditionally used for this purpose. Canada balsam is placed between the two layers. Xylene balsam, Canada balsam dissolved in xylene, is also used for preparing slide mounts. Canada balsam was also commonly used for making permanent microscope slides.