Need help removing gear shift knob without damaging it.

[Neil Mylar LakewoodCA]

I'm trying to remove an original gear shift knob from my gear shift, but it is stuck.
I've tried PB Blaster to loosen it, but it is still stuck.
I've been using an old towel and have been trying to loosen it by hand.

I don't want to use vice grips for fear of damaging the surface of the knob.

I would appreciate any suggestions.

Thanks in advance,
Neil