Several years ago I inherited a solid cedar chest that is at least 100 years old. This past weekend I finally got around to cleaning it and making minor repairs. Cleaned up, most of it is GORGEOUS natural wood. It has been so dirty for so long that it literally took my breath away to see the beautiful color.

So here's my problem: The top of it has taken quite a bit of abuse over the years and there is a large spot on the top that has no color. It's not a white spot a la water damage. There is no finish on this particular area and the natural color of the wood has been bleached out. So what to do? Should I leave it as is or try to match the rest of the chest with stain? I realize that with the natural color variation in wood, it will be tough to match. My husband's all for staining, but I am nervous about making it look even worse.

Help! I spent many years watching my grandfather do woodworking of all kinds, but I am pretty new at actually doing anything myself. Thanks!