Neck discoloration. Cause?

[cameronwho]

Hi all,

Quick question: Anyone know what would cause this type of discoloration on the back of a neck? It's from a bass I was interested in picking up. The gentleman selling it thought it was from the stand the base sat on, but I saw nothing in the photos that would indicate it was in contact in that area. I thought at first that maybe the finish had been rubbed off - or perhaps it was over-exposed to sunlight. I'm guessing it's purely cosmetic... Any thoughts?

Thanks!

 

[Reedt2000]

I wonder if the stand blocked the light. The rest of the neck was affected and darkened while that spot did not. It wouldn't bother me.

 

[Beej]

I think @Reedt2000 probably nailed it. My old classical has a similar spot, the shadow of a previous stand made a lighter spot as the UV darkened the finish around the shadow mark.

 

[cameronwho]

Thanks guys. Much appreciated.