Charles, given the parameters stated, I vote for the before version, for the following reasons...

1. Adjusting brightness still changes the image captured by the original scan. For example, if you were to adjust the brightness all the way up (or down) I'll bet you can alter the image to the point that it is completely not acceptable. My point is, any adjustment, alters the look. And while your target was the inlay, the entire chip was affected.

2. Your comment suggests that you do not have an actual example of the chip and only assume it to be white, when in fact, it may not. But then again, it could be. Is it?

For me, the better scan is the one of a new, unused version of this chip. Next best is the before version here.

Still your call, just a different point of view.

Jim